One electrifying sound is currently dominating TikTok’s “For You” pages, propelling a unique genre of electronic dance music from the Philippines into the global spotlight: Budots. The track responsible for this viral explosion is “Emergency Budots,” a remix crafted by DJ Johnrey Masbate in December, injecting new life into Miami Sound Machine’s classic “Dr. Beat.” This infectious remix has soundtracked over half a million TikTok videos, rapidly becoming a global dance phenomenon.
The Budots Dance: From Davao City to the World
Budots Dance and music originated in Davao City, Philippines, with the term “budots” stemming from Visayan slang for “slacker.” Interestingly, the energetic dance moves, characterized by sweeping hand motions and dynamic gyrations, actually predated the music genre itself. DJ Love, also known as Sherwin Tuna, is recognized as the pioneer of budots music, starting its creation in the early 2000s. While gaining steady popularity in the Philippines over the last decade, Budots remained largely a regional phenomenon until its recent eruption onto the international stage.
Understanding Budots Music and Movement
Budots music is characterized by its high-energy electronic beats, often incorporating samples and remixes from various genres, creating a frenetic and irresistibly danceable sound. The dance style is equally energetic and playful, featuring expansive arm movements, hip gyrations, and a general sense of loose, uninhibited fun. It’s this combination of infectious music and engaging dance that has captured the attention of TikTok users worldwide.
“Emergency Budots” Ignites Global TikTok Trend
DJ Johnrey Masbate’s “Emergency Budots” remix acted as the catalyst for Budots’ global breakthrough. TikTok creators are enthusiastically embracing the trend, attempting to replicate the signature budots dance moves in their videos set to the viral track. Even personalities like Hank Green have joined in, expressing both admiration and humorous struggle with the dance’s seemingly complex movements. Tutorials are popping up across the platform, further fueling the craze and making budots dance accessible to a global audience.
Masbate himself expressed surprise at the remix’s explosive popularity. Speaking to NBC News, he shared his passion for remixing and his hope that the budots trend will shine a brighter light on Filipino culture. For Masbate and many others, budots is more than just a dance or music genre; it’s an expression of Filipino identity and a source of joyful movement. As the “Emergency Budots” trend continues to flourish on TikTok, it’s clear that this Filipino dance craze has only just begun its global journey, inviting everyone to experience the infectious energy of budots.
