Never Gonna Give You Up

"Never Gonna Give You Up" is a dance-pop song originally performed by Rick Astley, released in 1987. It has become the center of an Internet meme called a Rickroll, originally a prank in which the victim is fooled into following a link to Astley's music video for the song. Jonathan Coulton has expanded on this joke by occasionally performing portions of the song at unexpected moments.

History

• At the April 26, 2008, show in Seattle, JoCo gave his usual introduction to Baby Got Back, then performed a surprise cover of the song, accompanied by Paul and Storm on vocals and Molly on ukulele and vocals. They played the first verse and chorus before switching back into Baby Got Back (video).
• He then performed it (after considerable build up) before the eagerly-awaited First of May performance at the first of May, 2008, show in Minneapolis (video).
• According to forum member Nagamar the Anagram, Coulton also performed this song at the May 2, 2008, show in Madison.
• A clip from the Rick Astley original made an appearance during the Zendrum solo in Mr. Fancy Pants at the May 3, 2008 show in Chicago (video).

Live Performance

In addition to the above scenarios, "Never Gonna Give You Up" has been known to be programmed onto one of the keys of the Zendrum. It can show up at any time. You have been warned.

Availability

"Never Gonna Give You Up" has not as of yet been recorded.

Themes

• Cover songs