The 'X Plays the Tambourine' meme typically features a character rhythmically and often annoyingly playing a tambourine to get someone's attention or express obsessive enthusiasm. While frequently associated with characters like Squidward Tentacles from SpongeBob SquarePants or various animated figures, the format serves as a universal metaphor for persistence and 'loud' behavior. It is commonly used to represent someone who won't stop talking about a specific topic, a repetitive thought that keeps one awake at night, or a person who refuses to let a dead joke die. The humor stems from the contrast between the rhythmic, upbeat nature of the instrument and the often exasperated reaction of those forced to listen to the performance.