The internet is no stranger to viral dance crazes, but the “Apple Dance,” set to Charli XCX’s infectious track “Apple,” has taken the digital world by storm in an unprecedented way. This dance, born from the creativity of New York City-based actor Kelley Heyer, has not only captivated TikTok users but also caught the attention of Charli XCX herself and even mainstream media. Let’s dive into the story of how this unexpected dance phenomenon unfolded and why it’s become the soundtrack to the summer.
The Genesis of a Viral Dance: Kelley Heyer and “Apple”
Kelley Heyer, an actor who turned to TikTok for creative expression during the pandemic, is the mastermind behind the “Apple Dance.” While she had experimented with style videos and trend-based content before, it was her original choreography to Charli XCX’s “Apple” that truly catapulted her into the viral spotlight. As Heyer explained, her connection with the song grew organically as she listened to Charli XCX’s album Brat daily. The lyrics and rhythm of “Apple” resonated with her so deeply that she felt compelled to create a dance to match its unique energy.
Heyer’s choreography is a testament to her intuitive understanding of the music. Breaking down the dance, she reveals how each move directly corresponds to the lyrics of “Apple.” For instance, the line “I think the apple’s rotten right to the core” inspired a move encompassing the heart and core of the body, reflecting the song’s themes of generational trauma and introspection. The dance incorporates playful gestures like mimicking an apple falling down stairs for “from all the things passed down from all the apples coming before,” and a seatbelt motion for “makes me just wanna drive,” all of which are drawn directly from Charli XCX’s lyrical and thematic cues.
Kelley Heyer demonstrating the "Apple Dance" moves, highlighting the core and heart motion.
Initially, Heyer choreographed the dance in her pajamas in front of a mirror, a casual and authentic beginning that mirrors the organic nature of many viral TikTok trends. This relatable and unpretentious origin story likely contributed to the dance’s widespread appeal.
From Underappreciated Track to TikTok Sensation
When Heyer first posted her “Apple Dance” on June 14th, the song had a modest presence on TikTok, featured in around 200 videos. However, Heyer’s dance acted as a catalyst. Over the next two weeks, the sound’s usage surged to 2,000 videos as more and more users discovered and replicated her choreography. The turning point came when Charli XCX, along with collaborators Troye Sivan and Terrence O’Connor, joined the trend and performed the “Apple Dance” themselves.
This endorsement from Charli XCX was instrumental in propelling the dance into the stratosphere of viral fame. Within a month of Heyer’s initial post, the “Apple” sound exploded to over 100,000 videos, and currently boasts over 400,000 and counting. The dance transcended typical TikTok trends, permeating online culture in diverse and creative ways.
The virality extended beyond just dance recreations. The internet responded with an outpouring of creative interpretations, including pets performing the dance, mascot renditions, animations, and even fan-made merchandise like sweaters inspired by the choreography. This widespread adoption underscores the dance’s infectious appeal and its ability to resonate with a broad audience.
Charli XCX’s Embrace and the Creator’s Perspective
Charli XCX’s reaction to the “Apple Dance” craze has been overwhelmingly positive. She personally reached out to Kelley Heyer to express her admiration for the dance and even offered her tickets to her Madison Square Garden show. This direct interaction between the artist and the dance creator highlights the collaborative and community-driven nature of online culture. The prospect of Charli XCX performing the “Apple Dance” on stage further solidifies its place within her live performances and fan experience.
Kelley Heyer acknowledging the support and credit for her "Apple Dance" creation on TikTok.
Initially, there were discussions online about proper credit attribution for the dance. While Heyer acknowledges the importance of credit, she emphasized her discomfort with fans using her name to be critical of others who may not have tagged her in their dance videos. Heyer’s gracious and understanding response underscores a positive perspective on internet virality, focusing on the joy of shared creation and participation rather than strict attribution. She appreciates the recognition but prioritizes kindness and inclusivity within the online community celebrating the dance.
Beyond TikTok Fame: Acting Aspirations and Future Projections
While the “Apple Dance” has brought Kelley Heyer significant online recognition, she remains focused on her primary passion: acting. Heyer views her social media presence as a tool to promote her acting career, using platforms like TikTok to build name and face recognition within a broader audience. She recognizes the current media landscape where artists often wear multiple hats, embracing the “multi-hyphenate” identity.
The virality of the “Apple Dance” has already opened doors for Heyer, providing opportunities to meet industry professionals and expand her network. Her trip to Los Angeles to film an exciting TikTok project is a direct result of her increased online profile. The dance has transformed public perception, with many recognizing her as “the ‘Apple’ girl” in real-life interactions, showcasing the tangible impact of online fame on offline experiences.
Looking ahead, the “Apple Dance” phenomenon continues to evolve. Heyer jokingly predicted the dance’s potential crossover into mainstream politics, even suggesting the possibility of Kamala Harris participating in the trend. Whether this prediction materializes remains to be seen, but it speaks to the pervasive reach of viral internet trends and their capacity to permeate various aspects of culture and society.
The “Apple Dance” serves as a compelling case study in the unpredictable nature of internet virality and the power of social media to amplify creativity. From a spontaneous dance created in pajamas to a global phenomenon embraced by the song’s original artist and beyond, the “Apple Dance” exemplifies the dynamic and often surprising ways in which online trends emerge and evolve. Kelley Heyer’s story is a testament to the potential of individual creativity in the digital age and the unexpected paths to recognition and opportunity that can unfold in the world of social media.
