“Cotton Eye Joe” is a song by Swedish eurodance group Rednex. It was released in August 1994 as the lead single from their debut album Sex & Violins. The song is a based on the traditional American country dance song of the same name, which was first recorded in 1939. Upon its release, “Cotton Eye Joe” achieved widespread success across Europe and beyond. The song topped the charts in several countries, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Sweden. It also became a major hit in the United States, reaching#5 on Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.
The success of “Cotton Eye Joe” propelled Rednex to international fame, making them one of the leading acts in the Eurodance genre during the 1990s. The group continued to release music and perform, but none of their subsequent singles achieved the same level of commercial success as their debut hit. The song is a fast-paced dance track with a catchy melody and a simple, repetitive chorus. The lyrics are about a man named Cotton Eye Joe who leaves a party with a woman, and the singer’s attempts to find out where he went. The song is full of energy and fun, and it is sure to get people dancing.
The music video for “Cotton Eye Joe” was directed by Jonas Åkerlund and features the band performing the song in a variety of locations, including a barn, a field, and a saloon. The video also features some scenes of people dancing and having fun. The song has been covered by many artists, including The Trashmen, The Mavericks, and The Flaming Lips. It has also been featured in several films and television shows, including The Simpsons, Family Guy, and Napoleon Dynamite.
“Cotton Eye Joe” is a fun and catchy song that is sure to get stuck in your head. Over the years, “Cotton Eye Joe” has remained a nostalgic and beloved dance classic, often featured in ’90s music compilations and party playlists. Its combination of folk and dance elements, along with its infectious energy, continues to make it a favorite choice for dancefloors and gatherings. Rednex’s “Cotton Eye Joe” remains a defining moment in the Eurodance genre, showcasing the group’s ability to blend diverse musical styles into a globally successful hit. Its enduring popularity has solidified its status as a memorable and iconic song of the 1990s.