MC Hammer's 'U Can't Touch This': The Story Behind The Song
The Enduring Legacy of "U Can't Touch This"
"U Can't Touch This," a phrase synonymous with the early 1990s, is more than just a catchy tune; it's a cultural phenomenon that catapulted MC Hammer to superstardom. Released in 1990 from his album Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em, the song quickly became a global sensation, dominating airwaves, music charts, and dance floors. Its infectious beat, memorable lyrics, and Hammer's signature dance moves made it an instant classic, transcending generations and musical genres. But what exactly makes this song so iconic, and why does it continue to resonate with audiences today? Let's dive into the story behind "U Can't Touch This," exploring its origins, its impact, and the controversies that surrounded it.
The song's success can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, the irresistible beat sampled from Rick James's "Super Freak" provided the perfect foundation for Hammer's energetic delivery and confident lyrics. This fusion of hip-hop and funk created a sound that was both familiar and fresh, appealing to a wide range of listeners. Secondly, Hammer's charismatic persona and distinctive style, characterized by his flashy outfits and elaborate dance routines, made him a captivating performer. His live performances were legendary, filled with energy and excitement that left audiences in awe. Finally, the song's message of invincibility and self-assurance resonated with people of all ages and backgrounds. The phrase "U Can't Touch This" became a mantra, a declaration of confidence and defiance in the face of adversity. It's a testament to the song's enduring power that it continues to be used in popular culture today, from movies and television shows to commercials and memes. The song's message is timeless, and its appeal is universal. Whether you're facing a tough challenge or simply need a boost of confidence, "U Can't Touch This" is a reminder that you are capable of anything.
The influence of "U Can't Touch This" extends far beyond the realm of music. It has had a profound impact on popular culture, shaping fashion, dance, and even language. Hammer's signature parachute pants became a fashion statement, inspiring countless imitations and solidifying his status as a style icon. His dance moves, characterized by their energy, precision, and theatricality, influenced a generation of dancers and choreographers. The song's catchphrase, "U Can't Touch This," entered the vernacular, becoming a common expression used to express invincibility, confidence, or simply to playfully taunt someone. Furthermore, the song's success helped to pave the way for other hip-hop artists to achieve mainstream recognition. It demonstrated that hip-hop could be commercially viable, opening doors for future generations of rappers and producers. In many ways, "U Can't Touch This" was a watershed moment in the history of hip-hop, marking the beginning of a new era of mainstream success and cultural influence.
The Making of a Hit: Behind the Scenes
The creation of "U Can't Touch This" is a story of musical inspiration, creative collaboration, and a bit of controversy. The song's iconic beat is built around a sample from Rick James's 1981 hit "Super Freak." Hammer recognized the potential of the funky bassline and incorporated it into his own track, adding his signature rap verses and catchy hooks. While the use of samples was common in hip-hop at the time, it also raised questions about copyright and fair use. Hammer initially did not obtain permission to use the sample, leading to legal complications later on. Despite the controversy, the use of "Super Freak" was undeniably a key ingredient in the song's success, providing a familiar and infectious foundation for Hammer's unique style.
The production of "U Can't Touch This" was a collaborative effort involving several talented musicians and producers. Hammer worked closely with Felton Burrell and James Early Ramey to craft the song's distinctive sound. Burrell, a seasoned producer, helped to refine the beat and arrangement, ensuring that it was both catchy and danceable. Ramey, a skilled songwriter, contributed to the song's lyrics and hooks, adding to its overall appeal. Together, they created a track that was both innovative and accessible, pushing the boundaries of hip-hop while remaining true to its roots. The recording process took place in various studios in California, with Hammer meticulously overseeing every detail. He was a perfectionist, determined to create a song that would not only be a hit but also a reflection of his artistic vision. His dedication and attention to detail paid off, as "U Can't Touch This" became one of the most iconic songs of the 1990s.
The music video for "U Can't Touch This" played a crucial role in the song's success. Directed by Rupert Wainwright, the video featured Hammer in his signature parachute pants, performing his energetic dance moves against a backdrop of vibrant colors and elaborate sets. The video was visually stunning and highly entertaining, capturing the energy and excitement of the song. It received heavy rotation on MTV, helping to propel "U Can't Touch This" to the top of the charts. The video also showcased Hammer's charismatic personality and distinctive style, further solidifying his status as a pop culture icon. It was a perfect complement to the song, enhancing its appeal and making it an unforgettable experience for viewers. In many ways, the music video was a work of art in itself, contributing to the song's enduring legacy and solidifying its place in music history. The music video is unforgettable, it's the reason why this song is so iconic and popular until now. The visual representation of the song adds another layer of entertainment, making it more appealing and memorable for the audience.
Legal Battles and Financial Troubles
The success of "U Can't Touch This" was not without its challenges. The song's use of a sample from Rick James's "Super Freak" led to a legal battle over copyright infringement. Initially, Hammer had not obtained permission to use the sample, which resulted in a lawsuit filed by James's publisher. The case was eventually settled out of court, with Hammer agreeing to credit James as a co-writer and pay him a significant portion of the royalties. This experience highlighted the importance of clearing samples and obtaining proper licenses in the music industry. It also served as a cautionary tale for other artists who were using samples in their music. Despite the legal challenges, Hammer maintained that he had acted in good faith and that his use of the sample was transformative, adding a new dimension to the original song. However, the experience undoubtedly took a toll on him, both financially and emotionally.
Despite his immense success, MC Hammer faced financial difficulties later in his career. His lavish spending habits, combined with poor business decisions, led to him filing for bankruptcy in 1996. Hammer had amassed a fortune, but he spent it just as quickly, purchasing extravagant homes, cars, and other luxury items. He also employed a large entourage, further adding to his expenses. When his popularity began to wane, his income declined, but his spending habits remained the same. This unsustainable lifestyle eventually caught up with him, forcing him to declare bankruptcy. Hammer's financial troubles served as a cautionary tale about the dangers of excess and the importance of financial planning. It also highlighted the challenges faced by many artists who achieve sudden fame and fortune. Despite his financial setbacks, Hammer remained resilient and eventually rebuilt his career, becoming a successful entrepreneur and public speaker.
"U Can't Touch This" in Pop Culture
"U Can't Touch This" has become a ubiquitous presence in popular culture, appearing in countless movies, television shows, commercials, and video games. Its catchy beat and memorable lyrics make it a perfect choice for adding energy and humor to a scene. The song has been used to comedic effect in films like White Chicks and Charlie's Angels, where characters perform exaggerated versions of Hammer's signature dance moves. It has also been used in commercials for products ranging from fast food to insurance, leveraging its widespread recognition and appeal to attract consumers. In video games, "U Can't Touch This" has been featured in dance games and music simulators, allowing players to experience the thrill of performing the song's iconic choreography. Its use in popular culture has helped to keep the song alive and relevant, ensuring that it continues to be enjoyed by new generations of listeners.
The song's influence extends beyond its use in entertainment and advertising. "U Can't Touch This" has also become a popular meme, used to express invincibility, confidence, or simply to make a joke. The meme typically features a photo or video of someone doing something impressive or avoiding a mishap, accompanied by the song's iconic chorus. This use of the song as a meme has helped to further solidify its place in popular culture, ensuring that it remains a relevant and recognizable reference point for people of all ages. The meme's popularity is a testament to the song's enduring appeal and its ability to connect with people on an emotional level. Whether it's used to celebrate a victory or to poke fun at a mistake, "U Can't Touch This" continues to be a source of joy and inspiration for people around the world.
Conclusion
"U Can't Touch This" is more than just a song; it's a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on music, fashion, and popular culture. Its infectious beat, memorable lyrics, and Hammer's charismatic persona made it an instant classic, transcending generations and musical genres. While the song has faced its share of controversies and challenges, its enduring appeal and cultural significance cannot be denied. It remains a timeless anthem of confidence, resilience, and the power of self-belief. So, the next time you hear "U Can't Touch This," take a moment to appreciate its legacy and the impact it has had on the world.
