Not only is Yo Gabba Gabba! the most popular new kids’ show in ages, it’s also the first to really win over adult fans since the days of Fraggle Rock . Part of the appeal (beyond the obvious fuzzy-monster factor) is the program’s pop-culture currency. With a title referencing the Ramones, and a lead character named DJ Lance Rock, it’s hardly a surprise that Gabba has modern musicians lining up to provide fodder for all the kids who “like to dance.”
In conjunction with the first DVD release of the show, an exclusive iTunes compilation features contributions from the Ting Tings, Biz Markie, the Roots, and others. While we’re as enthralled by the show as the next guy (er, tot), it all gets us thinking about the rich tradition of musical guest stars in children’s programming, most notably on Sesame Street.
Check out the Ting Tings on Yo Gabba Gabba! below, and then follow the jump for some of our favorites from Sesame‘s long history, including Johnny Cash, Stevie Wonder, and R.E.M.