Dancing with the Stars – Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe” – A Pop Culture Phenomenon

In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of popular culture, few songs have achieved the level of ubiquity and cultural impact as Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe.” Released in 2011, this catchy, infectious tune quickly transcended the boundaries of the music industry, becoming a global sensation and a defining anthem of a generation. But more than just a musical success, “Call Me Maybe” also had a profound impact on television, specifically on the beloved reality dance competition, “Dancing with the Stars.” The song’s enduring popularity and its unique ability to evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia, and carefree fun made it a perfect choice for the show, captivating audiences and creating some of the most memorable moments in “Dancing with the Stars” history.

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“Call Me Maybe” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, a sonic symbol of a specific moment in time. Its irresistible melody and relatable lyrics resonated with audiences of all ages, igniting a craze that swept the globe. From radio airwaves and music charts to social media platforms and countless covers, “Call Me Maybe” became a universal language, a soundtrack for everything from high school dances to wedding receptions. It’s this universal appeal that made it a natural fit for the vibrant and diverse world of “Dancing with the Stars,” a show that celebrates the power of dance and the joy of entertainment.

A History of “Call Me Maybe” on “Dancing with the Stars”

The first time “Call Me Maybe” graced the “Dancing with the Stars” stage was in 2012, during Season 15. The song was chosen for the “Team Up” week, a challenge that saw contestants paired with professional dancers from past seasons. The unlikely duo of Carson Kressley, a fashion icon known for his sharp wit and flamboyant style, and Anna Trebunskaya, a professional dancer known for her grace and technical prowess, decided to dance their Contemporary routine to the song. Their performance was a surprising hit, exceeding expectations and earning high scores from the judges. The audience seemed to love the unexpected combination of the song and the dance, resulting in a truly memorable moment.

Despite its initial success, “Call Me Maybe” was not used again on “Dancing with the Stars” for several seasons. This could be attributed to the ever-evolving trends in popular music, the desire to showcase a diverse range of songs and styles, and the need to keep the show fresh and exciting. However, in 2017, “Call Me Maybe” would make its return, and this time it would become one of the most talked-about moments of the season.

The Iconic “Call Me Maybe” Routine of Season 24

Season 24 of “Dancing with the Stars” saw the return of iconic personalities like Heather Mills, the ex-wife of Paul McCartney, Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, and former NFL star Terrell Owens. One of the most anticipated performances of the season came from the unlikely duo of Rashad Jennings, a former NFL running back with a surprising grace on the dance floor, and Emma Slater, a professional dancer with a knack for creating unique and captivating choreography. The two decided to tackle the “Team Dance Challenge,” where couples from different teams had to collaborate and perform a group dance in a specific style.

Jennings and Slater, along with two other couples, decided to perform a Contemporary dance to “Call Me Maybe.” This creative choice was a bold one, as Contemporary dance often involves more interpretive and emotional movement than other styles on the show. While some may have expected a more traditional waltz or foxtrot, the sheer audacity of this choice, combined with the nostalgic factor of using “Call Me Maybe,” created something extraordinary. The performance was a triumph of creativity and collaboration, showcasing the dancers’ technical skill and the song’s universal appeal.

The Lasting Impact of “Call Me Maybe” on “Dancing with the Stars”

The performance of “Call Me Maybe” in Season 24 was not just a captivating dance moment; it was a cultural event, a testament to the enduring power of Carly Rae Jepsen’s song. It sparked conversations, went viral on social media, and solidified the song’s place in modern pop culture. Even more importantly, it demonstrated the unique influence of music on dance, highlighting how the right song can transform a routine into something special, something memorable, something that resonates with audiences on a visceral level.

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Beyond “Call Me Maybe”: The Power of Music on “Dancing with the Stars”

“Dancing with the Stars” is more than just a competition; it’s a spectacle, a celebration of movement and artistry, and music plays a crucial role in shaping the show’s identity. From the upbeat pop tunes that fuel high-energy routines to the soulful ballads that evoke deep emotions, the music chosen for each performance carefully complements and enhances the artistry of the dancers and the drama of the competition. Each week, the show’s producers and choreographers curate a playlist that reflects the diversity of genres and styles, creating a musical tapestry that reflects the ever-changing landscape of popular music.

Throughout its long-running history, “Dancing with the Stars” has featured a wide range of musical genres, including pop, rock, country, Latin, and even classical music. The iconic song choices have not only entertained viewers but have also introduced them to new artists and new styles, broadening their musical horizons. This strategic use of music has become one of the show’s defining trademarks, creating an immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of dance and entertainment.

The Future of Music on “Dancing with the Stars”

As “Dancing with the Stars” continues to evolve, so too will its musical landscape. The show’s producers are constantly searching for new and exciting ways to incorporate music into their performances, looking for tracks that will capture the attention of the viewers and propel the competition to new heights.

The show’s commitment to showcasing a diverse array of musical genres, its ability to reimagine classic hits, and its willingness to embrace new and emerging artists guarantees that music will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of “Dancing with the Stars.” From the iconic to the unexpected, the songs chosen for the show will continue to create unforgettable memories and inspire a new generation of dance enthusiasts.

Call Me Maybe Dancing With The Stars

The Enduring Legacy of “Call Me Maybe” and “Dancing with the Stars”

As we’ve seen, the partnership between “Call Me Maybe” and “Dancing with the Stars” was a success story, a testament to the power of music and the captivating artistry of dance. Carly Rae Jepsen’s song continues to be a pop culture phenomenon, and its appearance on the show solidified its place in the hearts of millions, while “Dancing with the Stars” remains a leader in entertainment, offering audiences a glimpse into the world of dance and the magic of music.

The next time you hear the catchy melody of “Call Me Maybe” or watch a dazzling dance routine on “Dancing with the Stars,” remember the indelible mark these two have left on pop culture, a mark that continues to inspire and enchant audiences worldwide. The enduring legacy of both the song and the show is a testament to the transformative power of music and the universal appeal of dance, two forces that continue to shape our world, connecting us through shared emotions and captivating experiences.