Taking it back to 2006, a year that was undeniably shaped by a certain track hailing from Harlem, New York City. For those who experienced growing up in the Big Apple during this era, the impact of DJ Webstar’s “Chicken Noodle Soup” is unforgettable. It wasn’t just a song; it was a cultural phenomenon that painted the soundtrack of the entire city.
From the bustling streets of Brooklyn to community gatherings in Queens, the “Chicken Noodle Soup” dance took over. Everyone, everywhere, was “chicken noodle soupin’,” caught up in the infectious energy of the music and the movement. It was a unifying experience, a shared joy that resonated deeply within the city’s diverse communities.
It wasn’t until venturing outside the NYC bubble for college that the true nationwide reach of “the soup” became apparent. While it might not have reached the global saturation of a “Soulja Boy,” within the US, its impact was undeniable. For anyone navigating the MTA or tuning into Funkmaster Flex, the city felt completely immersed in the “Chicken Noodle Soup” craze.
*cue foghorns*
Let’s be real, the enduring legacy of “Chicken Noodle Soup” isn’t solely about the song itself—it’s about that dance.
Let’s get it, let’s get it, let’s get it – AH
Have you ever witnessed such pure, unadulterated flawlessness?
This was likely the sentiment echoing through countless sweet 16 parties as teens fearlessly embraced the “Chicken Noodle Soup” dance.
Dancing to Chicken Noodle Soup at a Sweet Sixteen party
“Chicken Noodle Soup” impressively climbed to number 45 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This chart success was largely fueled by the music video’s explosive virality. In the nascent days of YouTube, this track from Harlem demonstrated the platform’s immense potential for the music industry. And yes, you’re not mistaken, “Chicken Noodle Soup” even made its way onto Kidz Bop, further cementing its widespread appeal.
For New Yorkers, a significant part of the song’s charm was its homegrown nature. 2006 was a period heavily influenced by the sounds and dance trends of Southern hip-hop. Artists like Unk with the “Walk It Out” dance, Dem Franchize Boyz with their “Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It,” and the ever-present energy of Lil Jon dominated the airwaves. “Chicken Noodle Soup” emerged as New York’s distinct and vibrant response to this southern wave.
Chicken Noodle Soup dance craze in 2006
Everything about “Chicken Noodle Soup,” both the song and the dance, was inexplicably perfect in its own right. Consider these elements:
- The beat, essentially a siren layered with a simple bass and clap track.
- Young B’s vocals, delivered with youthful energy that belied her then-age of 15.
- The intro, featuring a man yelling for nearly 35 seconds straight, building anticipation.
Yet, none of these seemingly unconventional elements mattered because the final product was undeniably captivating. But let’s reiterate: THAT DANCE truly elevated the song to iconic status.
The animated “soda on the side” move, the effortless shuffle, the “making it rain” and “clearing it out” – these dance steps became instantly recognizable and endlessly imitated. #iconic indeed.
The nostalgia associated with “Chicken Noodle Soup” is powerful. It’s more than just a catchy tune or a dance craze; it represents a carefree and formative period. It’s a reminder of days spent doing homework on the 7 train and browsing music at the iconic Virgin Megastore in Times Square.
Virgin Megastore in Times Square, NYC
[We truly miss you, Virgin Megastore]
“Chicken Noodle Soup” evokes memories of hallway dance-offs and the rebellious spirit of banging on lockers while yelling “no music!” It’s intertwined with the experiences that shaped the author’s musical identity.
Pride in their city is a strong sentiment for many New Yorkers. “Chicken Noodle Soup” became an integral part of growing up in NYC, embraced wholeheartedly as a local anthem. It was a song to own, a piece of city culture to be proud of.
New York came, New York “souped,” and New York conquered the dance floors and airwaves of 2006 with “Chicken Noodle Soup.”
