When The Sims was first being developed, the creators faced a problem. They knew they wanted these characters to talk and interact, but they were worried that using a real language would quickly get repetitive and annoying. So, they decided to make one up. This is the story of Simlish: How it was created, why it works so well, and why artists ranging from The Black Eyed Peas to The Flaming Lips have re-recorded their songs in this gibberish language. Featuring Sims Designer & Voiceover Director Claire Curtin, Composer & Audio Director Jerry Martin, voice actress Krizia Bajos, and Youtuber Rachybop.

Follow the show on Twitter, Facebook, & Reddit.Subscribe to our Youtube channel here.Become a monthly contributor at 20k.org/donate.If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org.Subscribe to Rachel's Youtube channels, Rachybop and Rachybop Gaming.Check out SONOS at sonos.com.Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sulsulLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices