(Photo by George De Sota/Getty Images)
The most annoying accent in America is a subject that is constantly up for debate. This 12-Inch Poll aims to put the debate to bed.
Boston Magazine's Spencer Buell reported on a survey where respondents named Boston's accent the most annoying. Well, I think THEYAH annoyin', kehd. Why? Because recently, I reported on study that concluded that the Boston accent sounds smart. As I pointed out in my piece, the study I cited polled over 1,000 Americans. The respondents were asked a variety of questions about different American dialects. What I'm getting at here is that they did the work. The research is sound.
That first survey? It's suspect. And that's not a knock on my man Spencer Buell or Boston Magazine. I've respected Spencer's work for years and been entertained countless times by his wry observations. And Boston Magazine is always a go-to for me when I want insight, perspective, and cool things to do in Boston. It's an institution! And the fact that it's still alive and kicking in the current media landscape speaks volumes about their credibility and reputation.
Can we say the same about the 12-Inch Poll? I think we can. It doesn't carry as much weight here in Boston as Boston Magazine does. But it's your voice, week in and week out, and that counts for something. And, more often than not, you get it right, no matter what question I throw your way. That speaks to credibility, too.
What's The Most Annoying Accent in America?
So let's do it right: what's the most annoying accent in America? (We've already talked about the most annoying accent in the world.) I've made a list of the best-known regional accents in the U.S.A., given you an example of each, and I want you to vote for the worst one of the lot. Even if it is our beloved Boston accent. Kehd.
Maine Accent
Bert and I. Legendary regional comedy. Used to listen to these on cassette when driving up to Ogunquit.
Boston Accent
Sure, there are lots of examples in popular culture. But any excuse to revisit this gem, right? Timeless Boston comedy.
New York Accent
Remember when the host of Coffee Talk was Paul Baldwin? Then they put Mike Myers in drag and made him Linda? The accent ruled either way.
Pennsylvania Accent
Props to my nephews Ryan and Kyle. They both grew up in Philly. And I adore their accents.
Chicago Accent
"DAAAAA....BEARS!" Saturday Night Live went back to this bit quite a bit back in the day. But this is the best one.
Midwestern Accent
I can't see Frances McDormand's face and not hear the accent she used in this film. Think about it: she's been the template for every actor who uses the accent in the Fargo TV show. It's amazing.
Southern Accent
"We'd look like a buncha Johnny-come-latelys! No matter how schtumpy!" One of my all-time fave movies. One of the funniest scenes.
New Orleans Accent
I would've used Adam Sandler's "Cajun Man," but I already posted an SNL sketch. Besides, this commercial fascinated me as a kid. And it worked! We bought the chips.
California Accent
What was that I just said about SNL? Never mind. I'll always to back to the SNL well for good comedy. And this one always cracks me up.
Hawaiian Accent
I had no idea this was such a strong regional dialect. See? We're even learning something in this week's 12-Inch Poll.
