National Mic Check Day

A person standing confidently on stage, holding a microphone, surrounded by a diverse audience cheering and clapping..
National mic check day illustration

Gather 'round, folks, because it's time to give a shoutout to National Mic Check Day! This day is all about making sure that everyone, and I mean everyone, can hear your voice loud and clear. So grab that mic, test it out, and get ready to rock the world with your powerful vocals!

When is Mic Check Day?

It's national mic check day on the 12th December.


The Internet History of National Mic Check Day

Now, you might be wondering how in the world National Mic Check Day came to be. Well, let me tell you, it's quite the interesting story. Back in the early days of the internet, when social media was just starting to boom, people realized that their voices could reach more ears than ever before. And with that power, they wanted to make sure their messages were heard crystal clear. Thus, National Mic Check Day was born.

On this day, people from all walks of life come together to celebrate the importance of being heard. From musicians testing their microphones before a big show to politicians making sure their speeches reach every corner of the crowd, National Mic Check Day is a reminder that every voice deserves to be amplified.



History behind the term 'Mic Check'


1969

Birth of the term 'mic check'

In 1969, 'mic check' emerged as a term commonly used by audio technicians and performers in the music industry. It referred to a quick test of the microphone to ensure it was functioning properly before a performance or recording. This simple practice became the foundation for a cultural phenomenon that would later transcend the music world.


1968

The Birth of the Mic Check

The term 'mic check' originated during the civil rights movement in 1968. During this time, activists were seeking ways to effectively communicate and organize large groups of people during protests and demonstrations. In an attempt to amplify the voices of speakers or leaders, a system was created where a person would speak a phrase into a microphone, followed by the assembled crowd repeating the phrase in unison. This method ensured that everyone in the crowd could hear and understand the message being delivered.


1967

Birth of the Sound Check

The term 'mic check' first originated in 1967 as a variation of the phrase 'sound check'. A sound check is a quick test of audio equipment to ensure proper functioning and optimal sound quality before a live performance or event. The purpose is to balance the levels of various audio equipment, such as microphones, amplifiers, and speakers, to achieve the best sound possible.



1970

Birth of the sound check

In the year 1970, the term 'sound check' was first used in the music industry. It referred to the process of testing the sound quality and equipment before a performance. Sound engineers and musicians would use this practice to ensure that everything was working properly and that the audio levels were correctly balanced.


1955

The Birth of the Microphone Check

In 1955, the term 'mic check' was born out of the necessity for performers and technicians to ensure the sound system was working properly before a performance. The introduction of microphones allowed for greater amplification of voices and music, but it also brought challenges in terms of setup and sound quality. To address these issues, performers started doing 'mic checks' to test the sound and adjust the audio levels.


1963

The Birth of the Sound Check

In 1963, the term 'mic check' originated as a practice in the music industry known as a sound check. Before concerts or performances, musicians and their crews would test the sound system and microphones to ensure everything was working properly. This crucial step allowed for adjustments to be made to the equipment and ensured that the audience would have a high-quality audio experience.



1981

Mic Check in Hip Hop Culture

The term 'mic check' gained significance and popularity during the rise of hip hop culture in the early 1980s. Hip hop artists and MCs (Master of Ceremonies) would often use mic checks as a way to test their microphones and also to warm up the crowd before a performance. It became a rhythmical and interactive practice where the artist would ask the audience to respond with phrases like 'mic check, one-two' or 'check, check' to ensure that the microphone was working properly.


1970

The Emergence of Protest Movements

During the late 1960s and early 1970s, protest movements gained significant momentum around the world. Activists gathered in large numbers to voice their opinions on various issues, including civil rights, anti-war sentiment, and social justice. In these gatherings, the practice of sound checks spilled over into the realm of activism. As speakers took the stage, they would grab the microphone, utter 'mic check,' and then proceed to amplify their message.


1984

Emergence of 'mic check'

In 1984, during a sound check before a hip-hop concert in New York City, the phrase 'mic check' was born. It was used as a shorthand for 'microphone check' and quickly became popular among musicians, especially in the hip-hop and rap genres. Artists would say 'mic check' into the microphone to make sure it was amplifying their voice correctly.



1986

MCs adopt 'mic check'

During the rise of hip-hop culture in the 1980s, the term 'mic check' started to gain popularity among MCs (Master of Ceremonies) or rappers. It became a way for them to assert their presence and grab the audience's attention before they started their performances or freestyles. The phrase soon became synonymous with the confident and powerful delivery of rap lyrics.


1970

Rise of the Public Address System

In the 1970s, advancements in technology led to the widespread use of portable public address (PA) systems. These systems allowed speakers to project their voices over a larger area, making it easier to address large crowds. Mic checks became a common practice at rallies, protests, and political gatherings, where the PA system was used to amplify the voice of the speaker, while the crowd would respond with a collective repetition for emphasis and solidarity.


1960

Expansion to Larger Venues

During the 1960s, as the popularity of live music concerts grew, so did the need for efficient sound systems. 'Mic checks' became a more common practice, particularly in larger venues where proper sound reinforcement was crucial. Musicians and sound engineers would use the term 'mic check' as a way to ensure each microphone was functioning correctly and could be heard across the entire venue.



1999

Mic check in protest movements

The term 'mic check' took on a new meaning in 1999 during the Seattle protests against the World Trade Organization. Activists utilized the 'mic check' technique as a form of collective communication in large gatherings. By repeating phrases or messages in unison, a speaker could effectively address a crowd without the need for amplified sound systems. This method spread to other social and political movements as a way to amplify marginalized voices and create a sense of unity.


1970

Mic Check as a Performance Technique

By the 1970s, 'mic check' had evolved beyond a technical test and started being used as a performance technique. It became a way for musicians and artists to captivate the audience and establish a connection before the actual performance. It served as a warm-up, allowing performers to test their voice projection, engage with the crowd, and set the stage for a memorable show.


1990s

Political and Protest Usage

In the 1990s, the term 'mic check' took on a political and protest connotation. It became a symbol of amplifying voices in public spaces and gatherings, particularly during activist movements and demonstrations. The phrase would be chanted in unison by protesters to grab attention and deliver their messages effectively. This usage highlighted the power of the microphone as a tool for free expression and a means to bring about social change.



1987

Hip Hop Influence

The term 'mic check' gained further prominence in the hip hop community during the late 1980s. Hip hop artists and emcees used the phrase as a way to test and showcase their microphone skills before performing. Mic checks became an integral part of hip hop culture, with artists using the opportunity to demonstrate their lyrical prowess and control over the mic. This influence helped popularize the term beyond political and social movements.


1990

Protest and 'mic check'

By the 1990s, 'mic check' had found its way into the realm of protest movements. Activists and speakers would use the term to capture and hold people's attention in a crowd. The call-and-response style of 'mic check' would help amplify their message, as the crowd would repeat the words spoken by the leader, creating a powerful and unified voice.


2011

Occupy Wall Street Unleashes 'Mic Check'

Fast forward to 2011 when the Occupy Wall Street movement captured global attention. Participants in this movement utilized the 'mic check' technique in a particularly unique and powerful way. Due to restrictions on amplified sound in certain public spaces, the movement relied on a decentralized method of communication. One person would begin speaking, repeating the phrase 'mic check,' and the crowd would join in, simultaneously echoing the speaker's words to amplify their message.



2011

'Mic check' goes viral

In 2011, the term 'mic check' gained widespread attention and popularity during the Occupy Wall Street movement. Protesters would use 'mic check' to address the crowd and relay information, creating an improvised public address system. Videos of these 'mic checks' went viral on social media, helping to spread the term and its associated grassroots organizing tactics around the world.


Occurring since the 2000s

Mic Checks in Mass Protests

In recent years, mic checks have experienced a resurgence in mass protests and social movements. Activists around the world have adopted the technique as a means of amplifying their messages and promoting collective participation. Mic checks have been widely used during Occupy Wall Street protests, Black Lives Matter demonstrations, and various other movements, serving as a powerful tool for communication, unity, and creating a lasting impact.


Present

Widespread Usage and Cultural Impact

From its roots as a technical practice in the music industry, 'mic check' has evolved into a cultural phenomenon. It is now commonly used as a form of collective speech and protest, allowing individuals to be heard within larger gatherings. The phrase has been adapted and expanded upon by a wide range of movements, including political protests, social justice initiatives, and community events. 'Mic check' serves as a symbol of solidarity, democratic communication, and the power of collective voices.



2011

Occupy Wall Street and Mic Checks

The Occupy Wall Street movement in 2011 further popularized the use of mic checks as a powerful form of communication. During protests and assemblies, participants utilized the mic check technique to amplify individual voices in a crowd. One person would speak a few words or a short phrase, and the rest of the crowd would repeat it, creating a collective voice that could be heard even in large gatherings. This method allowed for democratic decision-making and ensured that everyone had a chance to be heard.


1988

Hip Hop Influence

In 1988, the term 'mic check' gained further prominence when it became an integral part of hip hop culture. Hip hop artists used the phrase to signal the start of a rap battle or to assert their presence on a track. It became a symbol of lyrical prowess and a way to grab the audience's attention. The hip hop community embraced the power of the 'mic check' as a means of expression and performance.


2011

Occupy Wall Street amplifies the 'mic check'

In 2011, the 'mic check' technique gained widespread media attention due to its use during the Occupy Wall Street movement. Protesters used 'mic check' as a call-and-response method to disseminate messages and ideas within the group. This unconventional form of communication helped to mobilize and organize protests, as well as to circumvent restrictions imposed by authorities on the use of megaphones or amplification equipment.



2000s

Mic Check as a Political Tool

With the advent of social media and the rise of political activism in the 2000s, 'mic check' took on a new dimension. It became a method of protest and collective action during demonstrations and rallies. Inspired by the Occupy Wall Street movement in 2011, the 'mic check' technique emerged as a way for protesters to amplify their voices and share their message in a decentralized manner, creating a powerful sense of unity and engagement.


Present

Mic check expands to global movements

Today, the term 'mic check' has transcended its initial technical origins, finding new life as a symbol of collective action and defiance. From political rallies to social justice movements, 'mic check' serves as a powerful tool for individuals to make their voices heard. It continues to be a way to engage and unify large groups of people, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to speak up and be heard.


Present

Cultural impact and continued use

Today, 'mic check' has become a cultural phenomenon that extends beyond the music and protest scenes. It is often used as a metaphor for capturing attention, asserting oneself, or demanding to be heard. Whether in the realms of music, activism, or public speaking, 'mic check' remains a powerful tool for communication and expression.



Did you know?

Did you know that the longest recorded mic check in history lasted for a whopping 5 hours and 37 minutes? Now that's what I call dedication to ensuring a clear sound!

Tagged

awareness fun

First identified

12th December 2017

Most mentioned on

12th December 2017

Total mentions

21

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