Viral 2022: The Trends That Took Over The Internet
Hey guys! Remember 2022? What a year, right? From bizarre dances to catchy songs and everything in between, the internet was buzzing with trends that had everyone hooked. Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most unforgettable viral moments that defined the year. Get ready for a nostalgia trip!
The Dance Crazes That Swept the Globe
Dance crazes are always a huge part of internet culture, and 2022 was no exception. These viral dance trends weren't just fun; they were a global phenomenon, bringing people together across different cultures and backgrounds. Who could forget trying to nail the latest moves with friends, or watching celebrities put their own spin on the challenges? Let's dive into the specific dance crazes that had us all glued to our screens and tapping our feet.
One of the biggest dance crazes of the year was the "Jerusalema" dance challenge. Originating from a gospel-influenced song by South African artist Master KG featuring Nomcebo Zikode, this dance quickly became a symbol of hope and unity during a challenging time. Healthcare workers, families, and communities around the world posted videos of themselves dancing to "Jerusalema," spreading positivity and solidarity. The simple yet infectious choreography made it accessible to everyone, regardless of their dance skills. It wasn't just about the steps; it was about the feeling of togetherness and resilience that the dance represented. The Jerusalema challenge truly transcended borders and brought a sense of global community when we needed it most. Its impact was so profound that it even inspired flash mobs and large-scale events, showcasing the unifying power of music and dance.
Another dance craze that took the internet by storm was the "Wednesday" dance, inspired by the Netflix series Wednesday. Jenna Ortega's unique and quirky dance moves in the show's fourth episode became an instant sensation. Recreating her gothic-inspired dance became a must-do for fans, with countless videos popping up on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. The dance's distinctive style, blending elements of goth, punk, and unconventional movements, set it apart from typical viral dances. What made it even more engaging was the creativity people brought to their versions, adding their personal flair while still paying homage to Ortega's original moves. From cosplayers to dance enthusiasts, everyone wanted to put their spin on the Wednesday dance, solidifying its place in internet history. The trend highlighted how a single scene from a popular show could ignite a global phenomenon, driven by the show's popularity and Ortega's memorable performance.
The Sound of 2022: Viral Music Trends
Of course, it wasn't just about the moves; 2022 also had its fair share of viral music trends. Music, as always, played a massive role in shaping the year's internet culture. Catchy tunes and earworm-worthy melodies dominated our playlists and social media feeds. From unexpected remixes to breakout hits, the music trends of 2022 were diverse and captivating. Let's turn up the volume and explore the sounds that defined the year.
One song that seemed to be everywhere was Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)." Originally released in 1985, the song experienced a massive resurgence in popularity after being featured prominently in the fourth season of the Netflix series Stranger Things. The emotional depth and haunting melody of the song resonated with a new generation of listeners, driving it to the top of the charts decades after its initial release. The Stranger Things effect was undeniable, as the show's influence on popular culture catapulted the song back into the mainstream. It wasn't just about nostalgia; young listeners discovered and embraced the song's timeless quality, appreciating its lyrical complexity and Bush's powerful vocals. The unexpected revival of "Running Up That Hill" underscored the power of media to breathe new life into classic tracks, proving that great music truly transcends generations.
Another musical trend that dominated 2022 was the rise of sea shanties. Yes, you read that right – sea shanties! These traditional maritime work songs experienced a surprising comeback, thanks to a viral TikTok trend. It all started when Scottish postman Nathan Evans posted a video of himself singing the sea shanty "Wellerman." The video quickly gained traction, inspiring countless others to join in and create their own versions, adding harmonies and instrumental arrangements. The result was a wave of collaborative sea shanty performances that spread across the internet like wildfire. What made this trend so unique was its participatory nature; anyone could join in, regardless of their musical abilities. The collective singing created a sense of community and shared joy, offering a welcome distraction during a time of isolation. The sea shanty craze demonstrated the internet's ability to revive forgotten genres and create unexpected musical sensations, bringing a taste of maritime history to a modern audience. It was a testament to the power of simple, communal music-making in the digital age.
Memes That Defined 2022
Ah, memes – the lifeblood of the internet! Memes in 2022, they were everywhere, weren't they? From relatable reaction images to absurd scenarios, memes captured the zeitgeist and gave us all a much-needed laugh. They spread like wildfire across social media, evolving and adapting with each iteration. Let's dive into some of the most iconic memes that defined the year and explore why they resonated with so many people.
One meme that had us all chuckling was the "Morbius" meme. The film Morbius, a superhero flick based on the Marvel Comics character, was released to generally negative reviews. However, its poor reception ironically fueled its online popularity. Fans began creating ironic memes praising the movie as a masterpiece, using hyperbolic and absurd humor to mock its flaws. Phrases like "It's Morbin' Time!" and images of Morbius photoshopped into various scenes became ubiquitous on social media. The Morbius meme was a perfect example of internet culture's ability to turn something bad into something hilarious. It showed how a film's failure could paradoxically lead to its online success, driven by the power of irony and collective mockery. The meme highlighted the fine line between genuine enthusiasm and satirical appreciation, demonstrating how the internet can transform a flop into a viral sensation.
Another meme that made its rounds was the "Woman Yelling at a Cat" meme. This meme combined two separate images: one of a woman yelling angrily and another of a white cat sitting calmly at a dinner table. The juxtaposition of the two images created a humorous template for expressing frustration and misunderstanding. People used the meme to represent various scenarios, from arguing with stubborn individuals to highlighting the absurdity of certain situations. The meme's simplicity and versatility made it incredibly adaptable, allowing it to be applied to a wide range of contexts. What made it so enduring was its relatability; everyone could identify with the feeling of being misunderstood or frustrated. The "Woman Yelling at a Cat" meme became a universal language for expressing everyday annoyances, solidifying its place as one of the internet's most iconic and long-lasting memes. Its widespread use demonstrated the power of simple visual humor to capture complex emotions and experiences.
The Takeaway
So, there you have it – a whirlwind tour of the viral trends that dominated 2022. From dance crazes to catchy tunes and hilarious memes, it was a year filled with unforgettable internet moments. These trends not only entertained us but also brought us together, creating a sense of community and shared experience. As we move forward, it's exciting to think about what new trends will capture our attention and shape internet culture in the years to come. Keep your eyes peeled, because the next viral sensation is always just around the corner! 2022 was truly a year to remember in the digital world. What were your favorite viral moments from 2022? Let us know in the comments below!