The ubiquitous usage of social networking and the spread of information through the internet are forms of communication we have all become accustomed to. However, what amazes me even more is the speed at which a video can become an overnight sensation.
A few weeks ago, Ylvis, a Norwegian pair of comedians, released a video titled, “The Fox.” Although the excitement about the song, which seems to double as a teaching tool for preschool students, has subsided, their popularity has not. The duo is being flooded with requests for interviews and record labels, which impels me to whip out a camera and make a video filled with animal calls that will propel me to fame and wealth.
After one month, “The Fox” has garnered the attention of one million people on Youtube. That’s impressive for a song consisting of terse statements and random ringing sounds. The duo has rocketed to fame in America ever since, but in Norway, they were already pretty well known. The two men are brothers that host a Norwegian talk show and have some other R-rated, but still hilarious, videos. Not much has actually happened to them since the release of the video, but honestly, I am pretty excited to see where these two playful siblings.
Their popularity has also led me to wonder about the whereabouts of fellow viral video makers, Rebecca Black and Psy. Like Ylvis, Psy was already well known in another country. After the release of “Gangnam Style,” he was able to tour internationally and has performed at countless shows, although many Americans did not understand the lyrics and only imitated his galloping dance moves. I have also had the pleasure of seeing him pop out of a shell in nut commercials in a pistachio colored suit and do the “Gangnam Style” dance with life-sized pistachios. In addition, he is working on an album, but has been vague about the details.
And finally, my personal favorite—Rebecca Black. She not only encourages me excited about Friday’s, but also has incredible strength for a young teen. After her infamous release of “Friday,” Rebecca Black resorted to homeschooling because of all the bullying she had received at school. The video had been commented on with death threats and taunts. Despite the uncalled for hatred she has been forced to face, she has earned an obscenely large sum of money for her music video. Black also recently released a cover of Miley Cyrus’ “We Can’t Stop,” and has transformed the inappropriate song with a pleasant rendition. Props to you Rebecca Black, for continuing to do what you love.
After observing these three videos, I have discovered that it does not take much to gain international fame. All you need is a catchy beat and shameless dance moves.
