Adam Sandler may have warmed his way into the hearts of millions across the world but his ability to sing has remained a topic of debate. After three long decades of wondering whether Adam Sandler deserves a seat with the industry legends, it’s time we took a deeper look into his music career.
The simple answer to your ever so pressing question is “Yes. Adam Sandler can sing.” Throughout the course of his career, Adam Sandler has graced the world with 7 studio albums, 16 singles and an EP. That’s a pretty impressive record I must say! Notwithstanding, his influence in music hasn’t hindered him from delivering off the charts comedy and starring in hit films.
Don’t worry if Sandler’s music influence went right over your head as all the questions you can think of will be answered below.
Who is Adam Sandler?
Adam Sandler is an American actor, comedian, producer, singer and screenwriter. I think it’s safe to say he’s a jack of all trades. Adam Sandler first made his appearance in the entertainment industry when he landed a role on The Bill Cosby Show as a friend of the Huxtables. He didn’t get his break until he was discovered by comedian Dennis Miller who recommended him to Saturday Night Live producer Lorne Michaels. He was brought in as a writer for the show where he worked his way into the live cast. While on the show, Sandler debuted his singles “The Thanksgiving Song” and “The Chanukah Song.”
He received his first starring film “Billy Madison” in 1995 and has continued to appear in hit films like Happy Gilmore, The Wedding Singer, 50 First Dates, Grown Ups, Hotel Transylvania, Bullet Proof, Punch-Drunk Love, Reign Over Me among others. In 1999 he formed his film production company Happy Madison Production which has been the name behind Sandler’s subsequent films. In 2014, he signed his first big deal with the production company Netflix.
Sandler has had a decorated career and absolutely made a name for himself as an actor, comedian, musician and producer.
Musical Background
The start of Sandler’s performing career may not be the most inspiring. At just 11, his mother forced him into performing Ringo Starr’s “You’re 16.” And Paul McCartney’s “Yesterday ” at his sister’s wedding. The combination may seem a little strange for a wedding but being just 11, they were the only songs he knew all the words to. Well, in her defence she accidentally launched a star. Years later she was able to get him to perform his hit single “The Hanukkah Song” at his nephew’s bar mitzvah. The woman definitely has her charms.
Certifications and Nominations.
Adam Sandler’s first album “They’re All Gonna Laugh At You” released in 1993 was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. As if that in itself isn’t an impeccable milestone, it was nominated for Best Comedy Album at the Annual Grammy Awards in 1995.
In 1996, Sandler released his second album “What the Hell Happened to Me.” Its reception was equally as great as the first and it was certified double platinum. Sandler went on to release five more albums with two of them being certified Gold.
Notable Performances
During a performance at the David Letterman Show, Sandler made a bold step and covered a Neil Young’s classic “Like a Hurricane.” He was joined by the guitarist Waddy Watchel and the Late Show Orchestra. The performance was exceptionally executed with a guitar solo from Sandler. The performance was so iconic it was featured on Warner Brother’s Record “Covered, A Revolution in Sound.” According to critics, Sandler’s voice matched that of the legendary Neil Young.
A collaboration between an all-time pop-star and a comedian may seem a bit far-fetched but not for Miley Cyrus and Adam Sandler. Following the 2017 Las Vegas shooting that left 59 people dead and 869 injured, the pair took the moment to pay tribute to the victims. The two came together on Jimmy Fallon’s “The Tonight Show” and sang a heart-warming cover of Dido’s “Freedom.” Miley voiced the vocals beautifully accompanied by Sandler on the guitar putting together an outstanding performance.
Adam’s Songwriting Collaborations
While working for Saturday Night Live, Adam Sandler was lucky enough to collaborate with some of the best writers in the industry for his single “The Chanukah song.” Lewis Morton, who is the name behind the popular Family Guy and Futurama, and Ian Maxtone Graham, the genius behind The Simpsons, partnered with Adam Sandler and created the masterpiece. It debuted on SNL “Weekend Update”. The song charted at number 80 on Hot 100 and was certified Gold. Over the years, Sandler has performed the song as part of his stand-up act with varied lyrics. The message in the song has however remained the same.
Music has been a big influence on Adam Sandler’s career. Although he is a comedy big wig, he has shared his art with the world through music. He has created numerous masterpieces over the years that have taken the industry to another level. To honour his efforts in the industry, Adam Sandler was set to receive the ASCAP Founders Award this April at the 37TH Pop Music Awards. It will be the first time ASCAP recognizes the efforts of a comedy song writer. The invite only event is set to be held in Los Angeles. It may seem like just another trophy to his building collection but this award is well deserved for this exceptional and talented man.
Adam Sandler may be a household name but he has had his fair share of misses in the industry. He has had a number of songs that have been unsettling, received a lot of criticism and ranked poorly in the charts. As a matter of fact his last two albums did quite poorly in the charts. All in all Sandler remains a great addition to the music industry. Through his music, he has brought joy and laughter to millions globally.