Podcast Summary: Twenty Thousand Hertz – "The Voices of… BLUEY!!!"

Introduction In the October 23, 2024 episode of Twenty Thousand Hertz, host Dallas Taylor delves into the fascinating world behind the beloved Australian animated series Bluey. Building upon the previous episode that explored the show's organic sound design, Taylor takes listeners deeper into the voice acting and familial contributions that breathe life into the characters of Bluey. The episode features insights from Dan Brum, the sound designer and mixer for Bluey, offering a comprehensive look at how voice work and authentic storytelling contribute to the show's widespread acclaim.

Voice Acting in Bluey Dan Brum opens the discussion by addressing a common curiosity about the voice recording process in Bluey. Contrary to popular belief, the actors do not record their lines together in a single session. Instead, each actor records individually, often in different locations. Brum explains:

• "But it turns out in every single case, every actor is recorded individually in different booths, different cities sometimes." (00:54)

This method allows actors the flexibility to deliver their lines with greater freedom and authenticity. Despite the physical separation, the final dialogue feels natural and impactful, enhancing the show's realistic family dynamics.

Dave McCormack: From Music to Voice Acting A significant portion of the episode highlights Dave McCormack, the voice of Bandit Heeler, Bluey's father. McCormack, known for being the lead singer of the Brisbane pop-punk band Custard, transitioned into voice acting with Bluey. Brum shares a personal anecdote:

• "And as soon as you heard his voice, it's perfect." (04:04)

McCormack's authentic voice adds depth to Bandit, making his character relatable and endearing. His seamless shift from music to voice acting underscores the show's commitment to genuine performances.

Melanie Zanetti: Finding the Perfect Voice for Chilli Melanie Zanetti, the voice behind Chilli Heeler, Bluey's mother, also plays a pivotal role in the show's success. Brum recounts how Zanetti was brought on board:

• "And so she just threw down a demo. I sent it to Joe, and he really liked it." (05:50)

Zanetti's heartfelt performance brings warmth and resilience to Chilli, resonating deeply with both children and adults alike.

Family Contributions: Voices from the Crew One of the unique aspects of Bluey is the involvement of the creators' family members in voicing various characters. This adds a layer of authenticity and personal connection to the show. For instance:

• The Busker, a musician dog, is voiced by Joff Bush, the show's composer.
• Bluey and Bingo's grandmother, Chris Heeler, is voiced by Chris Brummer, Joe and Dan Brum's mother.
• Uncle Stripe, Bandit's brother, is voiced by Dan Brum himself.

Brum shares a heartfelt moment about voicing Uncle Stripe:

• "And it's this real laughter." (08:58)

This familial involvement not only enriches the characters but also fosters a genuine and cohesive creative environment.

Uncle Stripe: A Personal Touch Dan Brum's portrayal of Uncle Stripe exemplifies the show's personal touch. Inspired by his own nickname "Stripe," Brum naturally embodied the character, bringing both humor and energy:

• "He sort of yells a lot. Stripe. And you just scream like from the belly." (11:07)

Uncle Stripe's vibrant personality is a testament to the show's ability to infuse real-life characteristics into animated personas, enhancing their relatability and charm.

Authentic Storytelling and Sound Design Bluey excels in crafting stories that mirror real-life parenting experiences. Brum emphasizes the importance of authenticity in both writing and sound design:

• "Often the three of us brothers will get together and you just kind of laugh about various things that your kids have said." (19:59)

An example of this authenticity is evident in the episode "Wagon Ride," where the sound design captures the serene yet lively atmosphere of an early morning walk with the kids. Brum meticulously recorded sounds like squash balls bouncing and shoes squeaking to create a vivid auditory experience:

• "It's so much fun because you can't fake a game of squash. It's such a specific sound." (18:08)

Impact on Families and Parenting One of the most profound insights shared by Brum is how Bluey influences real-life parenting. The show's relatable stories and inventive games inspire parents to engage more deeply with their children. Brum reflects:

• "That's what you hear everywhere, is that it's just encouraged dads and mums to play with their kids." (25:07)

This connection between the show and its audience fosters a sense of community and shared experiences among families, reinforcing the show's positive impact.

Relatable Moments and Cultural Nuances Taylor shares a personal story about how Bluey helped him understand his daughters' unique phrases, highlighting the show's cultural authenticity. The episode where the kids play "pass the parcel" clarified a childhood confusion for Taylor:

• "We realized that they were saying pass the parcel but with an Australian accent." (24:18)

Such moments underscore how Bluey not only entertains but also bridges cultural gaps, making it universally relatable.

Conclusion: The Power of Authenticity and Family In wrapping up the episode, Dan Brum expresses his gratitude and fulfillment in contributing to a show that brings joy and relatability to millions of families worldwide:

• "I'm very fortunate and very lucky to be able to play a role in a show like this, but it's a really nice feeling to know that something you work on is just creating so much happiness and so much joy around the world." (28:20)

Bluey stands out as a testament to the power of authentic storytelling, genuine voice acting, and the invaluable contributions of family. Through its heartfelt narratives and realistic soundscapes, the show not only entertains but also fosters stronger family bonds and shared moments of joy.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "But it turns out in every single case, every actor is recorded individually in different booths, different cities sometimes." – Dan Brum (00:54)
• "As soon as you heard his voice, it's perfect." – Dan Brum (04:04)
• "He sort of yells a lot. Stripe. And you just scream like from the belly." – Dan Brum (11:07)
• "Often the three of us brothers will get together and you just kind of laugh about various things that your kids have said." – Dan Brum (19:59)
• "That's what you hear everywhere, is that it's just encouraged dads and mums to play with their kids." – Dan Brum (25:07)
• "I'm very fortunate and very lucky to be able to play a role in a show like this, but it's a really nice feeling to know that something you work on is just creating so much happiness and so much joy around the world." – Dan Brum (28:20)

Final Thoughts This episode of Twenty Thousand Hertz offers a deep dive into the intricate processes and heartfelt stories behind Bluey. From the meticulous sound design to the authentic voice acting and familial involvement, the podcast highlights the elements that make Bluey a standout show beloved by families around the globe. Whether you’re a fan of the series or new to its charm, this episode provides valuable insights into the craftsmanship that brings Bluey’s world to life.