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Loituma's "Ievan Polkka" is a traditional Finnish folk song that gained international popularity in the early 2000s due to a meme featuring a looped 30-second segment of the song and a character named "Leekspin." Here are some interesting facts about Loituma and "Ievan Polkka":

1. Origin of the Song: "Ievan Polkka" is a traditional Finnish tune with lyrics written in the early 1930s by Eino Kettunen. It tells the story of a young maiden named Ieva and her lover.

2. Loituma's Version: The version of "Ievan Polkka" that gained fame is performed by the Finnish quartet Loituma. The band was formed in 1989 and specializes in traditional Finnish music.

3. Internet Meme: The song became widely known on the internet in the mid-2000s, especially due to the "Leekspin" meme. This meme featured a looped animation of Orihime Inoue from the anime "Bleach" spinning a leek with the song playing in the background.

4. Virtual Popularity: Loituma's "Ievan Polkka" achieved virtual stardom, with various remixes, covers, and parodies circulating online. The catchy tune and the unique sound of the Finnish language contributed to its popularity.

5. Instrumentation: The distinctive sound of "Ievan Polkka" is created using a kantele, a traditional Finnish instrument. The kantele is a plucked string instrument with a sound that adds to the charm of the song.

6. Traditional Dance: The song is associated with a traditional Finnish dance called the polka, which is a lively and fast-paced dance. The dance is often performed to the upbeat tempo of "Ievan Polkka."

7. Global Impact: While "Ievan Polkka" is rooted in Finnish culture, its internet fame has made it a globally recognized tune. It's an example of how traditional music can find new life and audiences through the power of the internet.

The combination of traditional Finnish music, an internet meme, and a catchy tune has made Loituma's "Ievan Polkka" a unique and enduring cultural phenomenon.