We have a collection of 11 arrangements for Traditional - Ievan Polkka
What 2006 internet meme made this Finnish folk song globally recognizable? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Loituma: Finnish Folk Ensemble and Internet Phenomenon
"Ievan Polkka" is a Finnish folk song that gained international popularity, particularly through the internet meme known as "Leekspin." Here are some interesting facts about it:
Traditional Finnish Folk Song: "Ievan Polkka" (also known as "Ievan Polokka" or "Eva's Polka") is a traditional Finnish folk song with roots dating back to the 1930s. It comes from the region of Karelia in Eastern Finland.
Vocal Performance: The version of "Ievan Polkka" that became famous online features a distinctive a cappella vocal performance by the Finnish quartet Loituma. This quartet recorded the song for their 1995 album "Things of Beauty."
Internet Meme: "Ievan Polkka" became an internet sensation in the mid-2000s when a flash animation of a character named Orihime Inoue from the anime "Bleach" twirling a leek (a type of vegetable) to the tune of the song went viral. This meme is often referred to as "Leekspin."
Popularity Beyond Finland: The meme's popularity introduced the song to a global audience, and it garnered millions of views on various video-sharing platforms. Many remixes and parodies of the Leekspin video also emerged.
Lyrical Content: The lyrics of "Ievan Polkka" are in the Karelian dialect of the Finnish language and tell the story of a young maiden named Ieva. The lyrics are light-hearted and describe Ieva dancing and having fun.
Diverse Covers and Adaptations: Over the years, the song has been covered and adapted by numerous artists and in various musical styles. It has been performed with instruments and remixed in electronic music, showcasing its versatility.
Cultural Impact: "Ievan Polkka" and the Leekspin meme left a lasting cultural impact, with references to the song appearing in various media and even being featured in video games.
Traditional Dance: The song is often associated with a lively dance called the "Finnish Polka" or "Finnish Folk Dance," which involves fast footwork and spinning.
"Ievan Polkka" is a prime example of how traditional folk music can find new life and popularity in the digital age, thanks to internet culture and memes.