Robert Haimer…also known in the music world as Artie Barnes…has died at the age of 69. He was one half of the group Barnes & Barnes…the bizarre rock duo who created the novelty hit song “Fish-Heads.”
Bill Mumy, the other half of the band, said this in a statement: “I’m so sad to share the news that Robert Haimer, my friend since childhood and musical partner in Barnes & Barnes passed away this morning after a long illness.”
Personally-speaking…as a kid growing up in the ’80’s during the rise of “Weird” Al Yankovic…I learned and became a huge fan of the wacky radio personality Dr. Demento. Demento was a larger-than-life DJ who would play “Weird” Al songs and other comedic tunes. And it was through him that I first heard “Fish-Heads.”
“Fish-Heads” was also played video on early MTV as well. And the video is just as strange as the song. The fish-heads are in sweaters…in movie theaters…it’s crazy…but…in my opinion, the glorious oddness of “Fish-Heads” makes it one of the best (and funniest) novelty songs ever.
Check out the video for “Fish-Heads” below…followed by two videos you may not have heard…”Party In My Pants” and “Boogie Woogie Amputee.” And rest in peace, Robert!
