Napoleon XIV

Napoleon XIV is the stage name of Jerry Samuels, an American singer-songwriter and record producer, best known for his 1966 novelty hit "They're Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa!" The song, characterized by its dark humor and unique sound, features a spoken-word style and a catchy chorus, drawing on themes of madness and societal alienation. It reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a cult classic, often associated with the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Samuels initially recorded under various names before adopting the Napoleon XIV persona to create a distinct artistic identity. His work is often categorized within the novelty genre, which blends humor with music, appealing to a wide audience. While he did not achieve significant commercial success following his initial hit, Napoleon XIV's "They're Coming to Take Me Away" has had a lasting impact on pop culture, influencing later artists and being featured in numerous films and television shows. The track is frequently referenced in discussions about 1960s music and has inspired a variety of covers and remixes, solidifying its place in music history.