The infectious synth-pop anthem, “The Safety Dance,” by Men Without Hats, is instantly recognizable. In recent times, the song has experienced a resurgence, ironically repurposed to promote real-world safety during the pandemic. From Jimmy Fallon’s acoustic rendition emphasizing Covid precautions to Alaska Airlines’ lyrical adaptation for a hygiene-focused TV ad, the word “safety” in the title has taken on a literal meaning. But delving deeper into the origins of “The Song Safety Dance” reveals a story far removed from public health guidelines.
Contrary to interpretations suggesting themes of sexual health – premature given the song’s 1982 release predating widespread AIDS awareness – “The Safety Dance” was born from a much more relatable frustration. Ivan Doroschuk, the band’s frontman, penned the lyrics as a direct protest against the overzealous enforcement of dance floor etiquette by club bouncers. In his own words to Time Out Sydney, the song “originated when I was getting kicked out of clubs for pogoing — for hitting the dance floor whenever they played Blondie’s ‘Heart of Glass’ or The B52’s ‘Rock Lobster’.” “The song safety dance,” therefore, wasn’t about physical safety, but the freedom to dance as one pleased without arbitrary restrictions.
Initially released as the second single from their album Rhythm of Youth, “The Safety Dance” had a slow burn to success. While their first single, “I Got the Message,” failed to gain traction, the Canadian label decided to release “The Safety Dance.” It entered the Canadian Top 50 in February 1983 but remained relatively stagnant. However, a pivotal remix for a 12-inch version breathed new life into the track. Slowly, the song began its ascent, becoming a global phenomenon throughout the winter of 1983 and 1984. “The song safety dance” became Men Without Hats’ defining hit, overshadowing their otherwise respectable career.
What’s fascinating about “the song safety dance” is its inherent unconventionality, which arguably contributed to its widespread appeal. Doroschuk’s distinctive, almost monotone baritone vocal delivery, the seemingly simplistic and repetitive synth melody, and the very idea of dance craze lyrics at a time when synth-pop was becoming more sophisticated – all these elements defied typical pop conventions.
Adding to the song’s unique identity was its music video, directed by Tim Pope, who later gained fame for his iconic videos for The Cure. Filmed in the quaint English village of West Kington, Wiltshire, the video presented a bizarre medieval-themed fair. It featured an eclectic cast of characters: Morris dancers, a Punch and Judy show, dancing dwarfs, and even a cameo by Louise Court, future editor of Cosmopolitan, as an exuberant villager. This visually arresting and slightly chaotic video perfectly complemented the song’s quirky, almost anachronistic, charm. The juxtaposition of modern synth-pop with Olde Worlde imagery in “the song safety dance” video created a memorable and engaging experience for viewers.
Men Without Hats "The Safety Dance" music video still featuring Morris dancers.
The undeniable catchiness of “the song safety dance” is undeniable. Its infectious hooks, both lyrically and melodically, resonated deeply with audiences. The opening lines, “We can dance if we want to,” even inspired “You Can Dance (If You Want To)” by Go Go Lorenzo & The Davis Pinckney Project, a significant hit in Washington DC’s go-go scene in 1986. Trouble Funk, a leading band in the genre, also incorporated it into their live performances, demonstrating the song’s cross-genre appeal and lasting impact.
The enduring power of “the song safety dance” is further evidenced by the diverse range of artists who have covered it. From the experimental hip-hop genius J Dilla, who created a slowed-down instrumental version, to the boogie-rock veterans Status Quo, who recognized its inherent rock and roll spirit. Garage rock band The Donnas brought their raw energy to the track, while The Asteroids Galaxy Tour infused it with their signature pop sensibilities. Even “Weird Al” Yankovic crafted a Brady Bunch-themed parody, showcasing the song’s adaptability and cultural ubiquity.
Perhaps the most significant legacy of “the song safety dance” lies in its ability to foster a sense of community. Mirroring the diverse ensemble in its original video, the song has become a catalyst for group expression. From the cast of Glee’s flash mob performance in a shopping center to countless user-generated flash mob videos on YouTube, “the song safety dance” has inspired collective joy and participation. Even corporations have tapped into this communal aspect, as seen in Lipton Iced Tea’s faux flash mob featuring Hugh Jackman performing The Feeling’s cover.
Ultimately, “the song safety dance” transcends simple lyrical analysis or musical deconstruction. It’s a testament to how a song, even without profound meaning or complexity, can connect with people on a fundamental level. Whatever Men Without Hats initially intended, “the song safety dance” has evolved into something bigger – a universal anthem of uninhibited joy and shared experience that continues to resonate across generations. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest expressions can be the most powerful and enduring.
