Claire Thompson
The Chicken Dance is a well-known song and dance that has become popular at weddings and drinking events like American Oktoberfest. The song was composed by Swiss accordion player Werner Thomas in the 1950s and has since been recorded under various names, including Der Ententanz (The Duck Dance), Dance Little Bird, and The Chicken Song. The dance involves mimicking a bird by flapping arms like wings and wiggling buttocks, followed by clapping. It is particularly popular in Canada, with many assuming it is a staple at weddings and community events.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Names | The Chicken Dance, Der Ententanz, Tchip Tchip, Vogerltanz, the Bird Song, the Chicken Song, the Birdie Song, the Bird Dance, Danse des Canards, the Duck Dance, El Baile de los Pajaritos, O Baile dos Passarinhos, Il Ballo del Qua Qua, Check Out the Chicken, Dance Little Bird |
| Composer | Werner Thomas |
| Co-composers | Van Rymenant (Terry Rendall), Johnny Hoes |
| Year of composition | 1957 |
| Origin country | Switzerland |
| Genre | Oom-pah |
| Album | Bird Dance |
| Record label | Telstar Records |
| Publishing rights | Eurovox Music (except US, UK and Netherlands) |
| Year of release | 1983 |
| No. of copies sold | 40,000,000+ |
| No. of versions | 140+ |
| Dance moves | Flap arms like wings, wiggle butt, clap |
| Occasions played | Weddings, American Oktoberfest, NHL games, fundraisers |
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What You'll Learn
The song's composer, Swiss accordionist Werner Thomas
The Chicken Dance is an "oom-pah" song composed by Swiss accordionist Werner Thomas from Davos, Switzerland, in the 1950s. Thomas, born in 1931, worked as a restaurant musician in Davos during the early 1960s when he is said to have composed the song. The original name of the song was "Der Ententanz" or "The Duck Dance".
Over 140 versions of the song have been recorded worldwide, including some released by Walt Disney Records, with an estimated 40,000,000 records or more pressed. On some recorded releases of the music, Thomas is listed as the sole composer, while on others, other composers are listed, such as "Thomas/Rendall/Hoes". The name Rendall refers to Van Rymenant, who was listed as a co-author under the pen name of Terry Rendall. The name Hoes refers to the Dutch singer and producer Johnny Hoes, who rearranged the song for the Electronicas recording.
The song's popularity is evident in its widespread adoption at weddings, particularly in cultures that include polka music. It is also a well-known drinking and dancing song at American Oktoberfest events. The song gained further recognition when it was performed at the Tulsa, Oklahoma Oktoberfest in 1981, with a dancer in a chicken costume. This is said to have given the song its American name, "The Chicken Dance".
The song has also been used for various fundraising initiatives, such as supporting the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario and the Helen DeVos Children's Hospital. It has been featured in television advertisements and contributed to the success of multiple gold albums, including those by the Emeralds in the early 1980s. The song has been translated and released in different versions in various countries, including Brazil, Belgium, and the Netherlands, further solidifying its global reach and appeal.
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The song's other names, including 'Der Ententanz' and 'The Birdie Song'
The "Chicken Dance" is known by many names, including "Der Ententanz" (The Duck Dance), "Tchip Tchip", "Vogerltanz", "The Bird Song", "The Chicken Song", "The Birdie Song", "The Bird Dance", "Danse des Canards", "El Baile de los Pajaritos", "O Baile dos Passarinhos", "Il Ballo del Qua Qua", "Check Out the Chicken", and "Dance Little Bird". The song was composed by Swiss accordion player Werner Thomas from Davos, Switzerland, in 1957, and it quickly became a popular drinking and dancing song at American Oktoberfest events and weddings, especially in cultures that include polka music.
The song's infectious melody, with its simple two-chord structure, has made it a favourite among people of all ages, with over 140 versions recorded worldwide. The song has been released by various artists, including Walt Disney Records, Bob Kames, Al Bano, Romina Power, René Simard, Nathalie Simard, and The Tweets. The Tweets, in particular, performed the song in large, mascot-style bird costumes, which became a common feature of live performances. Their version, "The Birdie Song", peaked at number two on the UK Singles Chart in October 1981, making it the most popular rendition in the United Kingdom.
The song's catchy tune and fun dance moves have contributed to its widespread popularity and enduring legacy. It has been featured in television advertisements and has been a successful addition to albums, such as "Bird Dance" by the polka-themed cover band "The Emeralds". The song has also been translated and released in various languages, including French, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, and Dutch, with each version gaining popularity in their respective countries.
The "Chicken Dance", with its various names and renditions, has become a beloved part of Western culture, bringing joy and happiness to people of all ages. Its simple yet catchy melody and dance moves have made it a staple at festivals, weddings, and celebrations, creating fond memories for many.
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The song's popularity at weddings
The "Chicken Dance", also known as "Der Ententanz", "The Birdie Song", "Dance Little Bird", and many other names, is a well-known drinking and dancing song at American Oktoberfests and other cultural festivals. It is also a popular dance at weddings, particularly in cultures that include polka music. The song was composed by Swiss accordionist Werner Thomas in 1957 and was originally called "Der Ententanz" (The Duck Dance). It became a worldwide hit in the early 1980s, with over 140 versions recorded worldwide.
The Chicken Dance is often considered a classic wedding song and dance, especially in the United States. It is known for its ability to break the ice and get everyone on the dance floor, from children to grandparents. The simple, catchy melody and infectious rhythm make it easy to join in, even for those who might not usually dance. This sense of participation and community is a key part of its appeal at weddings, creating memorable moments for guests.
However, some people view the Chicken Dance as overplayed, cheesy, and childish, leading to its decline in popularity at weddings. Weddings have become more luxurious and elegant affairs, and the Chicken Dance may be seen as too informal or kitsch. It has faced a similar fate to other group dances like the Macarena and the Electric Slide, falling out of favor as wedding traditions become overused and cliché.
Despite this, some couples still choose to include the Chicken Dance at their weddings, recognizing its potential to bring people together and create a fun, light-hearted atmosphere. It is often seen as a nostalgic and beloved part of wedding celebrations, evoking a sense of familiarity and joy. Ultimately, the decision to include the Chicken Dance or not depends on the couple's preferences, the desired atmosphere, and the expected crowd at the wedding.
To ensure a memorable wedding, it is essential to establish clear communication with the DJ or entertainer. Discussing the desired atmosphere, favorite genres, special songs, and any songs to avoid helps create a customized experience. A skilled DJ can introduce interactive and classic songs at the right moments to engage the crowd and make the celebration unique and enjoyable for all.
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The song's popularity at American Oktoberfest events
The "Chicken Dance", also known as "Dance Little Bird", is a popular drinking and dancing song at American Oktoberfest events. The song was composed by Swiss accordion player Werner Thomas in 1957 and has become a familiar drinking and dancing tune at Oktoberfest celebrations in the United States.
The song's popularity extends beyond Oktoberfest, as it is also a common feature at weddings, particularly in cultures that include polka music. It has become a well-known dance in various regions, with people of all ages familiar with the moves and eager to join in when the song plays. The dance involves mimicking a bird, flapping wings, wiggling, and clapping along to the music.
The Chicken Dance has also made its way into other aspects of American culture, such as sports. For example, during the 2015-2016 season, the NHL club Philadelphia Flyers played the Chicken Dance over the PA system when the team scored four goals in a game. The song's catchy melody and fun dance moves have made it a beloved part of American Oktoberfest traditions and other celebratory events.
While the Chicken Dance is a staple at American Oktoberfest events, the festival also features a diverse range of music. From traditional Bavarian "Blasmusik" and German Oompah to American oldies, German hits, and modern pop, rock, and hip-hop songs, the bands at Oktoberfest aim to cater to a wide range of musical tastes.
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The song's dance moves
The Chicken Dance is a well-known dance that is often performed at weddings and drinking events, such as American Oktoberfest. The dance moves are simple and can be remembered by making a beak with your hands, flapping your arms like wings, wiggling your bottom, and then clapping four times. The dance is usually performed to an oom-pah song of the same name, which was composed by Swiss accordion player Werner Thomas in 1957. It is also known as "Der Ententanz" (The Duck Dance), among many other names.
The song is often notated in cut time and the key of C major. It begins with repeated dominant chords before moving into the main theme, which is characterised by a contrasting rhythm. While the exact origin of the dance moves is unknown, they are thought to have been created to match the upbeat and playful nature of the song. The dance is particularly popular in certain cultures, including those with a strong tradition of polka music.
In some cultures, the Chicken Dance is considered a staple at weddings, with many guests expecting to perform the dance during the reception. It is also often played at community events, birthday parties, and school dances. The lighthearted and catchy nature of the song and its associated dance has made it a beloved tradition at celebratory events around the world.
The Chicken Dance gained particular popularity in Canada, where it was advertised on television with a costumed dancer. It has become so ingrained in Canadian culture that some people assume that all Canadians know the dance. It is often taught in elementary school physical education classes, alongside other traditional dances such as the Mexican Hat Dance.
The dance has also been performed at various fundraising events, such as fundraisers for children's hospitals, and has been used in sports arenas to celebrate team achievements. Beyond Canada, the Chicken Dance has spread widely, with over 140 versions recorded worldwide and an estimated 40 million records pressed.
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Frequently asked questions
The Chicken Dance is a popular drinking and dancing song, often played at American Oktoberfest events and weddings. It is also known as "Dance Little Bird", "Der Ententanz", "The Bird Song", "The Chicken Song", "The Birdie Song", "Danse des Canards", "El Baile de los Pajaritos", and many other names.
The moves to the Chicken Dance are simple and involve mimicking a chicken. You can make a beak with your hands, flap your wings, wiggle your bottom, and clap your hands.
The Chicken Dance was composed by Swiss accordion player Werner Thomas in the 1950s. It gained popularity in the 1980s, with different versions of the song being released worldwide. It has become a familiar and well-loved song at celebrations and events.
The Chicken Dance has been featured in various cultural contexts, such as at weddings, school dances, birthday parties, and community events. It has also been played at sporting events, such as during NHL games when the Philadelphia Flyers scored four goals. Additionally, it has been used for fundraising initiatives, such as raising money for children's hospitals.
The Chicken Dance is considered "oom-pah" music, which is often associated with polka. It typically features repeated dominant chords and contrasting rhythms.
