In the realm of dance music, there’s nothing quite as captivating as a contagious dance step paired with an infectious rhythm. It’s a combination that can make a song skyrocket in popularity and garner millions of views on its accompanying videos. This phenomenon was perfectly exemplified when British-Ghanaian recording artist Fuse ODG unleashed his hit single “Antenna” in 2013, sparking a global dance fever that took the internet by storm.
Fuse ODG, also known as Nana Richard Abiona, had no idea that his song would become a sensation when he released it. The rhythmic beats and catchy melody of “Antenna” struck a chord with listeners, and soon enough, the world was hooked. Recognizing the power of dance in bringing people together, Fuse ODG initiated the “Antenna” challenge, urging dancers worldwide to record themselves performing the Ghanaian dance style known as azonto to his hit track.
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Among the many participants who took up the challenge, one dance duo stood out from the rest. Kwabena Benko and Tracy Selasi, both 24 years old, captured the hearts of viewers with their mesmerizing performance of the “Antenna” azonto dance. Their video, shot in various public locations in Manchester, became an instant sensation, garnering over 21 million views and counting since its publication a decade ago.
The duo’s dance journey unfolded in the heart of Manchester, where they brought azonto to life. The video began with Selasi entering a restaurant, where Benko was eagerly waiting for her. A playful interaction ensued, with Selasi initially feigning indifference towards Benko’s approach. As they circled each other, their movements synchronized, and they seamlessly transitioned into the energetic dance routine.
Their passion for azonto knew no bounds, as they even took their dance to the Manchester tramway. The video featured them showcasing their moves inside a McDonald’s, with clever editing creating the illusion that they were simultaneously dancing on a moving train. Unbeknownst to the unsuspecting passengers, Benko and Selasi became the entertainment of the moment, captivating everyone with their entertaining choreography.
Azonto, a dance style that emerged just a decade ago in Ghana, quickly became a significant addition to the country’s vibrant dance culture. It incorporates knee-bending, exuberant hand gestures, and powerful hip movements, all of which were expertly showcased by Benko and Selasi during their performance. Their dance was a true embodiment of the spirit and essence of azonto, leaving onlookers awestruck by their skill and artistry.
Their video not only won the hearts of viewers but also caught the attention of Fuse ODG himself. Impressed by their vibrant and captivating performance, the artist expressed his admiration, stating, “I think what makes [Benko and Selasi’s video] my favorite is the fact that it’s so vibrant. I like Manchester, and it works well in the video.” Thousands of people worldwide watched and imitated the Manchester dance, showcasing the unifying power of music across cultures and borders.
Fuse ODG’s mission has always been to spread the joy and spirit of azonto through his music. With the explosive success of “Antenna” and the impact of Benko and Selasi’s performance, his vision became a reality. Azonto found its way onto the international stage, leaving an indelible mark on the global dance scene. Fuse ODG’s fusion of azonto into his music allowed this vibrant dance form to transcend geographical boundaries and bring people together through shared rhythms and movements.
The story of azonto’s rise to fame is a testament to the power of music to ignite global phenomena. The song “Antenna” served as a catalyst, and the remarkable talent of Kwabena Benko and Tracy Selasi breathed life into the dance, making it a worldwide sensation. As the world witnessed their electrifying performance, the influence of azonto grew, spreading like wildfire across continents and uniting people through their shared love of dance.
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