National Naenae Day

A group of diverse individuals, wearing colorful and vibrant clothing, mid-dance move, in a lively and celebratory atmosphere.. — National naenae day illustration

Get ready to break out your best dance moves because National naenae Day is here! This lively celebration is all about honoring the iconic dance move that took the internet by storm. So, grab your loved ones and get ready to wiggle, twist, and twerk your way through this fun-filled day!

When is Naenae Day?

It's national naenae day on the 4th April.

The Internet Sensation That Started It All

It all began on April 4, 2017, when the internet went wild over a video featuring a dance move called the naenae. This energetic hip-hop dance move captured the hearts of people across the web, quickly gaining popularity and sparking a global dance sensation.

Dancing Like Nobody's Watching

On National naenae Day, people from all walks of life come together to participate in the naenae craze. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or have two left feet, this is the perfect opportunity to let loose and bust a move. Grab your friends, turn up the music, and embrace the rhythm as you showcase your naenae skills.

A Day of Celebration

National naenae Day isn't just about dancing; it's also a celebration of self-expression, joy, and the incredible power of the internet to bring people together. It's a reminder that no matter where we come from, we can all connect and have fun through the universal language of dance.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the naenae dance move gets its name from the 2014 hip-hop song 'Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)' by Silento? The catchy tune became the perfect soundtrack for the dance move, propelling it into the viral spotlight and making it a cultural phenomenon.

History behind the term 'Naenae'

1970s

The Birth of Naenae

In the 1970s, an energetic dance move known as the naenae emerged in African-American communities in the United States. The dance involved rapid and bouncy movements, often performed in a flowing and rhythmic fashion. The term 'naenae' was derived from the name of a neighborhood in New Orleans, Louisiana, where the dance style originated. It quickly gained popularity and became synonymous with the distinctive dance move.

2012

Origin of the dance move

In 2012, a new dance move called the 'naenae' emerged in the hip hop and urban dance scene. It was originally performed by a dancer named Que, from the Atlanta-based group We Are Toonz. The move involved swaying and bouncing in a rhythmic manner, often with the dancer's hand placed on their hip or the back of their head.

2011

Origins in New Zealand

The term 'naenae' originated in New Zealand, specifically in the suburb of Naenae in Lower Hutt, a city located near Wellington. It is believed to have been used by the local youth as a slang term to refer to the dance move that later became popularized.

2014

The Birth of the Naenae Dance

In 2014, a dance move known as the 'naenae' gained popularity in the hip-hop and social media communities. The dance was inspired by the song 'Watch Me' by Silentó, which featured the lyrics, 'Now watch me nae nae.' The naenae dance involves a series of coordinated arm and leg movements, with a specific emphasis on swaying and snapping motions. The dance quickly spread through viral videos and dance challenges, captivating people of all ages and backgrounds.

2014

The Birth of Naenae

In 2014, a dance move known as the 'naenae' began to gain popularity among hip-hop dancers and enthusiasts. The name 'naenae' is believed to have originated from the location of the dance's creation, the neighborhood of Naenae in Lower Hutt near Wellington, New Zealand. It quickly became a viral sensation and spread across social media platforms, captivating people with its catchy rhythm and energetic movements.

1990s

Naenae Goes Mainstream

During the 1990s, the naenae dance move started to receive mainstream recognition and spread beyond its African-American cultural roots. It was featured in various music videos, particularly in the hip-hop genre, and became a staple in dance routines performed by popular artists. As a result, the term 'naenae' became widely known and associated with the dance move across different communities and demographics.

2014

Rise in popularity through social media

In 2014, the 'naenae' gained massive popularity through social media platforms like Vine and Instagram. Users began creating and sharing videos of themselves and others performing the dance move. Its catchy rhythm and simple yet fun choreography made it easily accessible to people of all ages, contributing to its viral success.

2015

Mainstream Recognition

By 2015, the naenae dance had caught the attention of popular music artists and celebrities. It started to feature prominently in music videos, live performances, and even became a part of official choreography for songs. This exposure helped to further propel the popularity of the naenae, and it became a cultural phenomenon embraced by people from all walks of life.

2014

Rise of Naenae Dance

The naenae dance gained traction through a viral video uploaded on social media platforms. The video featured a group of teenagers from the Naenae suburb performing the dance move to the song 'Drop That NaeNae' by WeAreToonz. It quickly caught the attention of people worldwide, leading to the popularization of the term 'naenae.'

2015

Mainstream Recognition

In 2015, the naenae dance gained mainstream recognition as it was featured in music videos, performances, and televised events. Various celebrities, including professional athletes and musicians, showcased their naenae dance skills, further popularizing the term. The dance became known for its catchy and accessible movements, attracting people from around the world to join in the trend.

2014

Celebrity endorsements

The 'naenae' received further exposure and recognition when several celebrities, including sports personalities and musicians, started incorporating the dance move into their performances. It became a common sight at music festivals, concerts, and even sporting events, solidifying its presence in popular culture.

2016

Incorporation into Pop Culture

By 2016, the naenae dance had become deeply ingrained in popular culture. It made appearances in movies, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its position as a recognizable dance phenomenon. The term 'naenae' became synonymous with the dance itself, and people would often use it to refer to both the dance and the song responsible for its initial popularity. Through its widespread adoption, the naenae dance created a shared cultural experience among people of diverse backgrounds.

2015

Widespread Popularity

The naenae dance went viral, with people all over imitating the moves and sharing their own videos online. The simplicity and catchy nature of the dance contributed to its widespread popularity. Various celebrities, musicians, and sports personalities also joined in the trend, further fueling its global reach.

2010

Viral Naenae Videos

In 2010, the popularity of the naenae dance move reached new heights with the advent of online video sharing platforms, particularly YouTube. Numerous videos showcasing individuals and groups performing the naenae went viral, garnering millions of views and sparking a global dance trend. The accessibility and widespread sharing of these videos propelled the naenae into the mainstream consciousness, making it a recognized and celebrated dance phenomenon worldwide.

2016

Global Spread

In 2016, the naenae dance move reached its peak in global recognition. Videos of people performing the dance flooded the internet, with individuals and groups showcasing their unique variations and interpretations. The naenae transcended cultural boundaries and gained immense popularity in countries around the world, becoming a truly global phenomenon.

2016

Crossing Genres and Cultures

The naenae dance moved beyond its original hip-hop and urban communities, crossing into different genres and cultures. It became a popular dance move in music videos, television shows, and even sporting events, bridging gaps between different demographics and bringing people together through a shared cultural reference.

2017

Influence on Pop Culture

In 2017, the naenae dance move had become firmly entrenched in popular culture. It influenced various forms of entertainment, including television shows, commercials, and movies. Its infectious nature made it a favorite for dance challenges, talent shows, and even school performances. The naenae had evolved into more than just a dance move; it had become a symbol of unity, creativity, and self-expression.

Present

Naenae in Popular Culture

In the present day, the term 'naenae' has become deeply ingrained in popular culture. It is often referenced and incorporated in music lyrics, dance competitions, and social media challenges. The naenae dance move continues to evolve and is often modified with creative variations, keeping it relevant and engaging for new generations. Its cultural impact extends beyond the dance floor, serving as a symbol of creativity, self-expression, and communal joy.

2015

Mainstream recognition

By 2015, the 'naenae' had achieved mainstream recognition. It was featured in music videos, interviews, and even dance competitions. The dance move became an integral part of various choreographies and dance routines, captivating audiences worldwide.

2017

Viral Challenges and Online Communities

In 2017, the naenae dance took on new life through viral challenges and online communities. Social media platforms such as TikTok provided a space for users to share their naenae dance videos, leading to the creation of numerous challenges and trends. These challenges encouraged creativity and personalization, allowing people to put their unique spin on the dance. The naenae dance became a symbol of unity and self-expression within the online community, fostering connections and inspiring others to join the movement.

2016

Influence on other dance styles

The 'naenae' had a profound influence on the evolution of dance styles. It inspired other dancers and choreographers to incorporate elements of the 'naenae' into their own routines, leading to the creation of countless variations and hybrids. This cross-pollination of dance styles further enriched the urban dance culture.

2019

Legacy and Continued Influence

Even though the initial naenae dance trend may have subsided, its impact on popular culture and music remains. The term 'naenae' continues to be used to refer to a dance move characterized by dipping low and then rising back up with rhythmic arm movements. It serves as a testament to the power of viral movements in shaping and influencing cultural expression.

Present Day

Enduring Legacy

Today, the naenae dance continues to captivate and inspire people worldwide. It remains a beloved dance move that brings joy and excitement to dance floors, parties, and social gatherings. The naenae's journey from a neighborhood dance to a global sensation showcases the power of shared experiences and the ability of cultural phenomena to connect and unite people across the world.

Present

Legacy and Evolution

The naenae dance continues to hold a prominent place in pop culture, with its influence transcending borders and generations. While the peak of its popularity may have passed, the dance's legacy lives on. It has inspired countless individuals to develop their own dance moves and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of popular dance trends. The term 'naenae' remains embedded in our cultural lexicon, representing a period of joyful movement, creative expression, and shared experiences.

Present

Enduring popularity

The 'naenae' continues to be a popular dance move and cultural phenomenon. It has transcended its initial viral status and remains a recognizable symbol of rhythm, energy, and self-expression. People all over the world still enjoy incorporating the 'naenae' into their dance routines, ensuring its enduring place in contemporary dance culture.