What do a typewriter, a carrot, and a Game Boy all have in common? Believe it or not, they’ve all been used to create viral hits! In a world where nearly every sound has been explored, some musicians are turning to unconventional instruments to stand out from the crowd. This article explores how artists are using weird and wacky instruments to craft viral sensations—and how you can, too.
The Appeal of the Unusual
In an oversaturated music landscape, novelty is everything. Musicians today aren’t just trying to make great sounds—they’re trying to capture attention. And nothing grabs attention faster than an unexpected twist. Viral hits like the “Carrot Recorder” video or the “Rubber Chicken Cover Band” are proof that audiences love it when musicians get creative with their sound sources. But this isn’t just about gimmicks—using odd instruments can lead to truly innovative music.
A Brief History of Musical Oddities
Unconventional instruments aren’t new, but their rise in viral music is a testament to the internet’s obsession with the unexpected. From theremins to didgeridoos, unusual instruments have always added unique flavors to music. Think of the quirky sounds in The Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations” or The Beatles experimenting with Indian sitars in “Norwegian Wood.” Fast forward to today, where artists are blending digital and organic sounds in wild ways.
Instruments That Broke the Internet
Here are a few of the most bizarre instruments that have helped songs go viral:
- The Typewriter: While it might seem like a relic of the past, the typewriter has made its way into music. The rhythm of typing was the basis for Leroy Anderson’s playful symphonic piece “The Typewriter,” and modern musicians have sampled typewriters to add quirky, nostalgic beats to electronic music.
- Carrot Flute: Yes, a literal flute made out of a carrot. A YouTuber went viral after creating this DIY instrument and playing recognizable melodies like “My Heart Will Go On” from Titanic. Audiences couldn’t get enough of the absurdity.
- Game Boy: The 8-bit nostalgia of this handheld device has inspired artists to remix and produce songs using its limited sound chip, creating retro beats that resonate with online audiences. Chiptune music, made with vintage gaming consoles like the Game Boy, continues to thrive in niche internet circles.
- Rubber Chicken: You’ve seen it—it’s silly, it’s noisy, and it’s utterly ridiculous. The humble rubber chicken became a viral sensation when artists started performing full songs with it, including iconic covers like Adele’s “Hello” and AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell.”
DIY Music: How to Make Your Own Weird Instrument
If you’re short on cash or just want to experiment, why not build your own weird instrument? It’s easier than you think. Follow these steps to create your very own viral-worthy instrument:
- Step 1: Gather Supplies – Look around your home. What can make a sound? Bottles, rubber bands, spoons, pots, anything is fair game.
- Step 2: Experiment with Sound – Start hitting, blowing, plucking, or shaking your objects to see what kinds of sounds they make. Take note of any patterns or rhythms you can repeat.
- Step 3: Record and Incorporate into Your Song – Use a simple recording app or a DAW (digital audio workstation) to capture your DIY instrument. Integrate these sounds into your existing song to create a quirky, one-of-a-kind soundscape.
Why Weird Instruments Go Viral
There’s something inherently shareable about an artist using a carrot to play a melody or a Game Boy to create a beat. These instruments often spark curiosity, leading to views, shares, and engagement. The viral success of these videos stems from the combination of unexpected creativity and auditory appeal. The internet thrives on novelty, and nothing grabs attention faster than a surprising twist on what we expect music to be.
Weird instruments also engage meme culture. A funny video of a rubber chicken cover band becomes a meme, spreading like wildfire through shares, reposts, and remixes. The absurdity or surprise factor of these odd instruments becomes a hook that keeps people talking and sharing.
Viral Artists Who Embrace the Weird
Some musicians have built their entire careers around using strange instruments. One example is Wintergatan, a Swedish band that became famous for the “Marble Machine,” an intricate musical instrument powered by 2,000 rolling marbles. The mesmerizing video of the machine playing an original composition has garnered millions of views.
Then there’s the French artist Mehdi Bousaidan, who plays spoons and kitchen utensils in his viral music covers, blending everyday objects with high-quality production. These unconventional instruments set him apart in a crowded market.
The Road to Viral Success with Unconventional Sounds
It’s not enough to just play a quirky instrument—virality requires timing, creativity, and sharing. Here’s a roadmap to maximize your chances:
- Create Visually Engaging Content: Make your performance as much a feast for the eyes as for the ears. Think about using props, humor, and interesting visuals that elevate the musical performance.
- Use Multiple Platforms: Don’t just stick to YouTube. Share your weird instrument content on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Reddit to reach diverse audiences.
- Engage With Your Audience: Encourage viewers to create their own videos using your music or challenge them to make their own weird instruments. User-generated content is a powerful way to keep your viral trend alive.
In the world of viral music, standing out is everything. Weird instruments are more than just a gimmick—they’re a doorway to innovation, attention, and creative expression. From typewriters to marbles, these instruments grab attention, fuel memes, and help musicians make a lasting impression. So next time you’re searching for a fresh sound, don’t look at your synthesizer—look around your house. Your next viral hit could be just a spoon, a carrot, or a rubber chicken away.