Watch Bret McKenzie Perform Oscar-Winning Song ‘Man Or Muppet’ On KEXP

Flight of the Conchords co-founder Bret McKenzie brought his solo band to the studios of Seattle independent radio station KEXP last month. Today, KEXP shared video of McKenzie’s session, which featured three cuts from his recently released Songs Without Jokes album as well as a performance of his Oscar-winning tune “Man Or Muppet.”

The New Zealand-based singer-songwriter penned “Man Or Muppet” for the 2011 film The Muppets. Gary and Walter, the movie’s main characters, sang the song in the flick. McKenzie took home not only the Academy Award for Best Original Song in February of 2012, he also won the Sierra Award for Best Song. Bret alternated between emulating Kermit The Frog (“Muppet”) and his own singing voice (“Man”) at KEXP’s studios.

Songs Without Jokes arrived via Sub Pop this past August. McKenzie started his KEXP session on November 6, 2022 with the album’s “Dave’s Place.” He then performed “Man Or Muppet” before returning to Songs Without Jokes for “Crazy Times” and “If You Wanna Go.”

Bret was backed by fellow Kiwis drummer Ben Lemi, guitarist Justin Clarke, saxophonist Eilish Wilson, bassist Jacqui Nyman and keyboardist Leo Coghini as well as vocalists Kat Little and Moana Leota. McKenzie spoke with host DJ Miss Ashley about Songs Without Jokes and his tour to end the session.

Check out Bret McKenzie’s KEXP session below:

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Source: JamBase.com