Like a Surgeon

Like a surgeon

Like a Surgeon is a song by "Weird Al" Yankovic. It was released as the first single from his third studio album, Dare to Be Stupid (1985). The song is a parody of "Like a Virgin" by Madonna, with the lyrics replaced to humorously describe a surgeon performing medical procedures. In keeping with Yankovic's style, "Like a Surgeon" uses the original song's melody but with altered lyrics that play on the original's themes in a comedic manner.

Background

"Weird Al" Yankovic is known for his humorous songs that parody contemporary music hits. "Like a Surgeon" was suggested by Madonna herself, according to Yankovic, making it one of the few songs he did not choose on his own. The suggestion was relayed to Yankovic by his manager after Madonna jokingly wondered when Yankovic would turn her "Like a Virgin" into "Like a Surgeon." Taking the idea, Yankovic crafted the song to mimic the original's style while infusing it with medical jargon and exaggerated scenarios typical of a surgical environment.

Composition

The song mirrors the pop feel of "Like a Virgin" but with lyrics that humorously detail the life of a surgeon. Yankovic's version includes references to various medical procedures, tools, and the hospital setting, often in a hyperbolic and humorous fashion. The chorus, for instance, plays on the original's theme of experiencing something for the first time, with Yankovic singing about performing surgery with a comedic lack of experience.

Reception

"Like a Surgeon" was well-received by both fans and critics, further cementing "Weird Al" Yankovic's reputation as a skilled parodist. The song's music video, which parodies scenes from Madonna's original "Like a Virgin" video but set in a hospital, also received positive attention for its comedic take on the source material.

Music Video

The music video for "Like a Surgeon" features Yankovic in a hospital, performing a variety of comedic surgeries and medical procedures. It parodies several of the iconic scenes from Madonna's "Like a Virgin" video, including Yankovic being wheeled down a hospital corridor on a gurney, mimicking Madonna's gondola ride through Venice. The video's humorous take on the medical profession and its parody of the original video's imagery contributed to the song's popularity.

Legacy

"Like a Surgeon" remains one of "Weird Al" Yankovic's most famous and enduring parodies. It showcases his ability to take a well-known song and twist its meaning in a way that is both humorous and musically engaging. The song is a staple in Yankovic's live performances and has been included in several of his greatest hits compilations.