Lateral with Tom Scott 95: Musical fly swatters
Aug 2, 2024
Ólafur Waage, a cartoon creator, joins comedian Evan Edinger and societal issues advocate Hannah Witton for a lively discussion. They tackle the unexpected role of fly swatters as jazz instruments and delve into the viral fame of a mundane Zoom meeting, sparking humor about online dynamics. The trio also explores quirky naming conventions in Nordic cultures and hilariously traces the origins of 'Scooby-Doo' to Frank Sinatra’s improvisation. Join them for a blend of creativity, culture, and comedic insights!
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Transcontinental Drive Done Entirely In Reverse
- In 1930 James Hargis and mechanic Charles Creighton drove a Ford Roadster from New York to Los Angeles and back entirely in reverse.
- They proved it by removing the car's forward gears so it physically could only be driven backwards for 42 days.
Clinton Avoided Elephant Rides While In Office
- Bill Clinton was advised not to ride or be pictured with elephants during his March 2000 India visit because elephants symbolize the US Republican Party.
- After leaving office he returned in April 2001 and fulfilled his wish to ride an elephant without political optics issues.
Flyswatters Replaced Brushes In Early Jazz
- Early jazz drummers used metal flyswatters as percussion brushes because they needed quieter, textured sounds in small venues.
- Those 1910s flyswatters were metal-wire tools that functioned like modern drum brushes before brushes existed.