The Fox Song: Release Date & Viral History

The Viral Phenomenon: What Does the Fox Say?

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the catchy, and let's be honest, slightly bizarre, world of "What Does the Fox Say?" This song by the Norwegian comedy duo Ylvis absolutely exploded onto the internet scene, and many of us are still humming its tune (or perhaps scratching our heads wondering about the lyrics). But when did this infectious earworm actually bless our screens and speakers? The song, "What Does the Fox Say?", was officially released on September 3, 2013, as a digital download. It was part of Ylvis's third studio album, "The Age of the Early Morning", but it was the single that truly catapulted them into global superstardom. The music video, released on the same day, was the real magic ingredient. Directed by Ole Endresen, it featured the brothers Bård and Vegard Ylvisåker in a series of increasingly absurd and hilarious scenarios, each more outlandish than the last. We saw them in woodland settings, raving in a club, and even performing on a stage in space, all while trying to figure out the answer to the age-old question: what does the fox say? The sheer creativity, the nonsensical lyrics, and the energetic electronic dance music (EDM) production created a perfect storm for viral success. It wasn't just a song; it was a cultural moment, a meme before memes were quite as ubiquitous as they are today. The song's journey from a planned joke to a global hit is a fascinating story in itself, demonstrating the power of the internet and a healthy dose of silliness.

The Genesis of a Meme: Ylvis's Humorous Intentions

It's crucial to understand that Ylvis, comprised of brothers Vegard and Bård Ylvisåker, are primarily known in their native Norway as comedians and television personalities. "What Does the Fox Say?" was never intended to be a serious musical endeavor. Instead, it was conceived as a bit of a joke, a track designed to be so absurd and catchy that it would stand out, even amongst the EDM giants of 2013. They were asked by their manager to create a song for the annual music festival, "Bylarm," and they decided to lean into the ridiculous. The idea was to create a song that was intentionally terrible, yet incredibly danceable, with lyrics that posed a completely nonsensical question. They wanted to poke fun at the repetitive nature of EDM songs and the often-meaningless lyrics found in many pop hits. The result? A track filled with onomatopoeic animal sounds, bizarre lyrical propositions like "Joff-tchoff-tchoff-tchoff-tchoff!" and "Wa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pow!", and a chorus that simply asks, "What does the fox say?" The initial reaction from their record label was reportedly one of confusion and mild horror. They couldn't fathom why Ylvis would release something so utterly strange. However, the brothers stood firm, believing in the comedic potential of their creation. They enlisted the help of production duo StarGate, who had worked with major artists like Rihanna and Ne-Yo, to give the song a polished, club-ready sound. This contrast between the silly lyrics and the high-quality production is a key element of the song's appeal. The music video, filmed on a shoestring budget but brimming with creativity and energy, was the final piece of the puzzle. It amplified the absurdity of the song, making it an instant internet sensation. The intention was never to top the charts or win awards, but to create a viral sensation, and boy, did they succeed!

The Song's Meteoric Rise to Global Stardom

Once "What Does the Fox Say?" dropped on September 3, 2013, the internet collectively lost its mind. The music video quickly went viral, garnering millions of views within days. Social media platforms buzzed with discussions, memes, and parodies. People were fascinated by the sheer randomness of the song, the elaborate costumes, and the brothers' uninhibited performances. It wasn't just a novelty hit in Norway; it became a global phenomenon. The song charted in numerous countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. It reached the top 10 in several major markets, a feat that shocked even the Ylvis brothers themselves. They appeared on talk shows like The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, performing the song and explaining its bizarre origins. The song's popularity led to countless parodies, covers, and remixes, further solidifying its place in internet culture. Businesses even capitalized on its popularity, with some creating fox-themed merchandise. It was a testament to the song's catchy melody and memorable, albeit nonsensical, lyrics. The success was so immense that it overshadowed much of Ylvis's other work, turning them into overnight international sensations, albeit for a song they created as a joke. The release date of September 3, 2013, marked the beginning of a period where the question "What does the fox say?" was everywhere, from playgrounds to office water coolers. It was a whirlwind of unexpected fame, all thanks to a deliberately silly song that captured the world's attention.

Beyond the Gimmick: Ylvis's Musical Journey

While "What Does the Fox Say?" undoubtedly became their signature tune on the global stage, it's important to remember that Ylvis is more than just a one-hit wonder. Vegard and Bård Ylvisåker have been active in the Norwegian entertainment industry for years before their viral hit. They started their careers in the early 2000s, performing live shows and hosting various television programs in Norway. Their style is characterized by a unique blend of music, comedy, and satire. Before the fox song, they had already released several albums and singles in their home country, often featuring witty lyrics and catchy melodies. However, the massive international success of "What Does the Fox Say?" somewhat overshadowed their previous work and their broader artistic identity. After the fox frenzy subsided, Ylvis continued to release music, attempting to balance their comedic roots with more serious musical aspirations. They released follow-up singles like "Trucker's Hitch" and "Mr. To Tang" which, while not reaching the same viral heights, showcased their continued interest in producing unique and entertaining music. They also continued their television careers in Norway. The brothers have often spoken about how the unexpected global fame from the fox song was both a blessing and a curse. It opened doors to international opportunities but also meant they were often perceived solely as the guys who made the "fox song." Their journey is a prime example of how a single, viral hit can redefine an artist's public image, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of internet fame. The release date of their iconic song was a pivotal moment, but their story didn't end there; they continued to evolve as entertainers, always with that signature Ylvis touch of humor and creativity.

The Legacy of "What Does the Fox Say?"

The impact of "What Does the Fox Say?" extends far beyond its chart performance or fleeting viral status. Released on September 3, 2013, the song cemented itself as a cultural touchstone of the early 2010s internet era. It's a prime example of how a piece of content, regardless of its initial artistic intent, can achieve monumental success through the power of online sharing and social media engagement. The song became a shorthand for absurdity and infectious catchiness, often referenced in discussions about viral marketing, internet memes, and the ephemeral nature of online fame. Its nonsensical lyrics and repetitive structure, initially intended as a comedic jab at pop music conventions, became its most endearing qualities. The music video, with its low-budget charm and high-concept silliness, is still studied by creators as a masterclass in generating buzz with limited resources. Furthermore, the song played a significant role in blurring the lines between comedy, music, and internet phenomena. It proved that a song could be both a genuine hit and a humorous parody simultaneously. For Ylvis, the song was a double-edged sword – it brought them global recognition but also a persistent association with their most comedic work. However, its legacy is undeniable. It's a song that people of a certain age will instantly recognize, likely with a mixture of nostalgia and bemusement. The question, "What does the fox say?" has become an iconic internet phrase, forever etched into the digital lexicon. The release date might be a specific point in time, but the song's cultural footprint continues to resonate, reminding us of a time when a quirky Norwegian duo and a catchy, bizarre tune could conquer the world, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected creations leave the most lasting impressions. It's a testament to the sheer fun and absurdity that can emerge from the digital age, and guys, we can't help but smile when we think about it.