My parents were contemporaries of Lehrer and we got his albums as they became available. I grew up with those songs and have memorized ~ 90% of them. Consequently, my children grew up with them, playing them for their own entertainment, not just when I put the albums on. I think my daughter memorized "The Elements" - so many people did, as a personal challenge or point of pride.

His songs were good, but the fact that he was an excellent pianist and had a great voice made it all work. And his choice of melodies to use, whether traditional or popular or classical, was perfect. I introduced my kids to Gilbert and Sullivan, among others, because of his use of their works.