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What viral internet animation made "Ievan Polkka" globally recognizable in the 2000s? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Loituma: Finnish Folk Ensemble and Internet Phenomenon
"Levan Polkka," commonly known as the "Leekspin" song, gained international fame as an internet meme in the mid-2000s. The song is actually called "Ievan Polkka" and is performed by the Finnish quartet Loituma. Here are some interesting facts about Loituma and "Ievan Polkka":
Finnish Folk Song: "Ievan Polkka" is a traditional Finnish folk song that originated in the early 20th century. Loituma's version of the song, however, was recorded in the 1990s.
Loituma: Loituma is a Finnish quartet comprising singers Sanna Kurki-Suonio and Tellu Turkka, and instrumentalists Hanni-Mari Autere and Timo Väänänen. They are known for their fusion of traditional Finnish folk music with modern elements.
Internet Meme: In the early 2000s, a looped 27-second clip from the "Ievan Polkka" music video featuring the character Orihime Inoue from the anime series "Bleach" became widely popular on the internet. The clip, accompanied by the spinning leek animation, became the "Leekspin" meme.
Global Popularity: The internet meme significantly boosted the song's popularity outside Finland. It became a global phenomenon and is often associated with internet culture from that era.
Variations and Remixes: The Leekspin meme inspired numerous remixes and variations, with fans creating their own versions of the animation and adding different music tracks to the spinning leek animation.
Traditional Roots: Despite its internet fame, "Ievan Polkka" remains rooted in Finnish tradition. The original folk song has a lively and catchy melody, making it a popular choice for folk music enthusiasts.
Cultural Impact: The meme's impact can be seen in various forms of media, including video games, commercials, and even live performances. It has become a symbol of internet culture and the early days of online memes.
"Ievan Polkka" and its associated Leekspin meme continue to be fondly remembered as one of the internet's early viral sensations, showcasing the power of music and animation to capture the online audience's imagination.