We have a collection of 11 arrangements for Loituma - Ievan Polkka
Who's behind the notes? Discover Loituma: Finnish Folk Ensemble and Internet Phenomenon
"Leekspin" or "Ievan Polkka" is a Finnish folk song performed by the band Loituma. It gained widespread recognition on the internet due to a flash animation titled "Leekspin" that features a looped animation of the character Orihime Inoue from the anime "Bleach" twirling a leek (a type of vegetable) while the song plays in the background. Here are some interesting facts about the song and its internet phenomenon:
Origin: "Ievan Polkka" is a traditional Finnish folk song that originates from the Karelian region of Finland. It's known for its catchy melody and danceable rhythm.
Loituma's Version: The version of the song performed by the Finnish quartet Loituma became particularly popular. Loituma is known for their fusion of traditional Finnish folk music with modern elements.
Leekspin Meme: The "Leekspin" meme, which featured Orihime Inoue spinning a leek while the song played, became widely popular on various websites and forums around the mid-2000s. The character's spinning motion synced perfectly with the song's rhythm, making it highly amusing to viewers.
Global Internet Sensation: "Leekspin" became a global internet sensation, and the song's chorus, as well as the iconic leek-spinning animation, were widely recognized in internet culture.
Virtual Popularity: The song's internet popularity led to a surge in the sales of Loituma's albums and an increased interest in Finnish folk music among online communities.
Variations: The "Leekspin" meme also gave rise to various parodies, remixes, and covers of "Ievan Polkka." Many content creators and musicians put their own unique spins on the song, contributing to its enduring popularity.
Dance and Festivals: "Ievan Polkka" is often performed at various festivals and events in Finland, where people engage in traditional Finnish folk dances. The song's lively tempo and catchy melody make it a favorite at such gatherings.
Loituma Continues to Perform: Loituma continued to perform and release music even after the meme's popularity. They have a dedicated following and have released several albums featuring their unique blend of folk and contemporary music.
Cultural Influence: The "Leekspin" meme and the popularity of "Ievan Polkka" introduced many people around the world to Finnish culture and music, highlighting the global reach and influence of internet culture.
Internet Timelessness: Despite its origins in the mid-2000s, "Leekspin" and "Ievan Polkka" continue to have a special place in internet culture, showing how certain internet memes can become timeless classics in their own right.