‘Pants on the Ground’ Becomes Hit After American Idol Audition

Every year, when a new season of American Idol kicks off, fans all over the world know they’re in for a treat. Until the judges make the cut to the final 10, of which America then votes just one, each new AI episode brings auditions from most cities around the country. Luckily, this also means hysterical moments like General Larry Platt singing his own song, called “Pants on the Ground.”

As Oregon Live can confirm, though the judges couldn’t possibly give the General the golden ticket for the obvious reason that he was “a little” older than the age limit of 28 (the General is 62), they did love his original song. Moreover, Simon Cowell actually predicted that it would become a hit – which it did, without as much as the General slash very enthusiastic rapper having to lift a single finger.

The rapper presented himself to the judges (this time with Mary J. Blige as the temporary judge), briefly introduced himself and started singing almost immediately. His is a rap-influenced track that mocks rappers who shun belts, like to cover their teeth in gold and wear their caps to the side. They all look like fools with their pants on the ground, the General says in his song. Even more, the 62-year-old aspiring Idol even went down and busted a move or two, much to the delight of the judges. They still had to turn him away though.

Nevertheless, this hasn’t stopped “Pants on the Ground” from going viral. Jimmy Fallon, for one, fell instantly for the song and decided to come up with his own version of it, as The Huffington Post reveals. “Jimmy Fallon broke out his spot-on Neil Young impression last night for a heart wrenching rendition of ‘Pants on the Ground.’ The tune, penned by 62-year-old American Idol contestant General Larry Platt, has been making the rounds this week due to ridiculous lyrics like ‘Pants on the ground / Lookin’ like a fool with your pants on the ground!’ But coming out of Neil Young’s emotional voice, those words never sounded more poignant,” The Post writes.

Below are the two versions of “Pants on the Ground,” from General Larry Platt and Jimmy Fallon. Check the both of them out and see which one better tickles your fancy.

General Larry Platt on American Idol, “Pants on the Ground”

Jimmy Fallon: Neil Young does “Pants on the Ground”