American Dad is an animated sitcom known for its quirky characters and outlandish humor, yet it occasionally surprises viewers with moments of unexpected depth and hidden talents among its eccentric cast. One such memorable instance occurs in Season 9, Episode 18, titled “Permanent Record Wrecker,” where the alien character Roger Smith, voiced by Seth, showcases a musical talent that leaves both the audience and the other characters in awe. If you’re curious about What Song Does Roger Play on Guitar in American Dad, this episode reveals Roger’s impressive rendition of “Classical Gas.”
Episode Background: Setting the Scene
In the world of American Dad!, Roger is often portrayed as a multifaceted character with numerous alter egos and a penchant for dramatic antics. However, his guitar-playing skills come as a genuine surprise in this particular episode. The scene is carefully set, building anticipation as Roger prepares to perform a piece that is both unexpected and impressive. This moment exemplifies the show’s ability to blend humor with character development, a hallmark that American Dad! fans have come to appreciate over the years.
Episode Details
Title: Permanent Record Wrecker
Season and Episode Number: Season 9, Episode 18 Air Date: May 4, 2014
Plot Summary: In this episode, the storyline leads to a climactic moment where Roger finds himself in a situation that calls for his hidden musical talents. As tension builds, he picks up a guitar, and Roger plays “Classical Gas,” on Guitar in American Dad, a well-known and technically challenging instrumental piece composed by Mason Williams. The version Roger performs is a cover by the renowned Australian guitarist Tommy Emmanuel, known for his complex fingerstyle technique.
The Music: “Classical Gas” and its Impact
The choice of “Classical Gas” as Roger’s showcase piece is particularly significant. Originally released in 1968, “Classical Gas” is a popular instrumental composition that has stood the test of time. The inclusion of this piece in the episode serves multiple purposes:
- It contrasts sharply with Roger’s usual antics, emphasizing the unexpected nature of his talent.
- The piece is technically challenging, highlighting Roger’s surprising level of skill.
- It introduces viewers to a classic piece of music, potentially broadening their musical horizons.
- The use of Tommy Emmanuel’s cover version adds another layer of complexity and artistry to the performance.
So, what song does Roger play on guitar in American Dad!? It’s “Classical Gas,” a sophisticated piece that showcases not only Roger’s hidden musical prowess but also the show’s ability to deliver surprising moments of character depth.
What Inspired Roger in American Dad?
Throughout the series, Roger is depicted as a character who thrives on attention and often goes to great lengths to display his many talents and personas. His decision to play “Classical Gas” in this episode can be interpreted as a reflection of his desire to surprise and impress those around him. It’s a moment of genuine self-expression, allowing Roger to showcase a refined skill that stands in stark contrast to his usual outlandish behavior.
The choice of such a sophisticated and challenging piece may also suggest that Roger seeks validation and recognition for his more cultured abilities. In a show where he’s often the source of chaos and crude humor, this performance allows Roger to demonstrate a level of artistry and skill that demands respect. It’s a rare moment where the other characters, and by extension the audience, are forced to see Roger in a new light.
Roger’s Gender Fluidity and Character Complexity
One of the most intriguing aspects of Roger’s character is his fluid gender identity. As an alien entity, Roger doesn’t conform to human gender norms, often adopting both male and female personas throughout the series. This fluidity is not directly addressed in the “Permanent Record Wrecker” episode, but it remains an essential part of understanding Roger’s complex character.
Roger’s ability to seamlessly shift between different roles, genders, and talents is one of the defining features of his character. It makes him one of the most unpredictable and entertaining figures in American Dad! His musical performance in this episode serves as a reminder of this complexity, showing that there are still new facets of Roger’s personality to be explored even after multiple seasons.
The Impact on the Series and Character Development
“Permanent Record Wrecker” stands out as a pivotal episode in the American Dad! series. It demonstrates the show’s ability to balance its trademark irreverent humor with moments of genuine character development. By revealing Roger’s Guitar Masterpiece in American Dad, the episode adds depth to a character who could easily have remained a one-dimensional source of comedic relief. This unexpected showcase of talent serves several purposes within the larger context of the series:
- It keeps Roger’s character fresh and engaging for long-time viewers.
- It opens up new possibilities for future storylines involving Roger’s musical abilities.
- It challenges viewers’ perceptions of Roger, encouraging them to look beyond his outrageous behavior.
- It demonstrates the show’s commitment to character growth and development, even in its later seasons.
Conclusion: A Moment of Unexpected Brilliance
Permanent Record Wrecker remains a standout episode of American Dad! for its blend of humor and unexpected depth. Roger’s Guitar Masterpiece in American Dad features him performing “Classical Gas,” adding a surprising layer to his character beyond his usual comedic antics.
This episode highlights Roger’s multifaceted nature and showcases the show’s ability to balance irreverent humor with genuine character development. Even after nine seasons, American Dad! continues to explore and expand its core characters, making this episode a must-watch. It demonstrates the show’s unique talent for delivering moments of brilliance that resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers.
