Blue Oyster Cult’s Buck Dharma recently shared his thoughts on the iconic Saturday Night Live sketch titled “More Cowbell,” which humorously parodied their classic track “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper.” Despite the challenges that arose from the sketch, Dharma emphasized that the overall impact has been positive. The band had to implement preventative measures during their concerts to manage the enthusiastic crowd reactions that the sketch inspired.

The memorable sketch, which first aired on April 8, 2000, featured comedic legends Will Ferrell as the fictional band member Gene Frenkle and Christopher Walken portraying the eccentric producer Bruce Dickinson. Ferrell, sporting a hilariously tight and low-cut shirt, plays the cowbell with excessive zeal while recording “Reaper,” much to the annoyance of his bandmates. Walken’s character, however, is obsessed with achieving the perfect sound, famously exclaiming, “I’ve got a fever, and the only prescription is more cowbell!” This line has become a cultural touchstone, illustrating the sketch’s lasting influence.

“More Cowbell” has established itself as one of the most beloved sketches in SNL history, dramatically altering the lives of everyone involved, both positively and negatively. Yet, as Dharma remarked in an interview with Vulture, the benefits have far outweighed the drawbacks. The sketch not only enhanced the band’s visibility but also introduced their music to a new generation of fans, showcasing the enduring nature of their work.

READ MORE: Discover the Top 25 ‘Saturday Night Live’ Cast Members of All Time

Discover the Reasons Behind Blue Oyster Cult’s Cowbell Ban at Concerts

“It’s amusing to reflect on,” Dharma noted. “I feel a unique connection with Will and Christopher since we are all intertwined with the legacy of the cowbell sketch in various ways. There’s a sense of camaraderie and empathy among us. Although Will’s character, Gene Frenkle, is fictional, we sometimes dedicate performances of our song to him. I often reassure Christopher that we’ve managed to cope with it all. When we perform ‘Reaper,’ audience members frequently imitate playing the cowbell, leading us to ban actual cowbells from our concerts. However, in the grand scheme of things, it’s a minor inconvenience.”

The overwhelming popularity of the “More Cowbell” sketch compelled Blue Oyster Cult to incorporate cowbell into their live renditions of their hit song. For over two decades, they had not used a live cowbell during performances and had never considered it necessary. Dharma explained, “We eventually had to embrace the cowbell because there was no escaping its impact. I appreciate that, despite the sketch’s significance—it remains relevant even after 25 years—it didn’t diminish the song’s original intent or its haunting atmosphere. The track continues to be utilized in horror films to evoke that eerie and unsettling feeling. I’m thankful that the sketch didn’t transform the song into a mere punchline.”

When asked if Walken’s prescription for more of the iconic instrument was accurate, Dharma replied with a smile, “I believe the cowbell was perfectly balanced, just as it should be.” His appreciation for the humor and impact of the sketch reflects the enduring legacy of both the band and the comedic moment that helped cement their song in pop culture.