Flanders & Swann

Flanders & Swann were a British musical comedy duo, beloved for their witty, charming songs that often mixed clever wordplay with gentle satire. Comprised of Michael Flanders (the lyricist and singer) and Donald Swann (the composer and pianist), the pair gained widespread popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, especially with their stage shows At the Drop of a Hat and At the Drop of Another Hat. These performances featured a mix of humorous songs and spoken interludes, showcasing their blend of intelligence, humor, and musical talent.

Their most famous numbers include “The Hippopotamus Song” (“Mud, mud, glorious mud!”), “The Gnu Song,” and “A Song of Patriotic Prejudice.” With Swann’s deft piano playing and Flanders’ theatrical delivery, they poked fun at everything from animal behavior to British social mores, often with a light, whimsical touch. Though both passed away in the 1990s, their recordings remain a favorite among fans of classic British comedy and musical theater.