Is the Harlem Shake back? Kai Cenat resurrects viral trend

The Harlem Shake trend is one of the most famous viral trends of all time. Now, over ten years later, streaming star Kai Cenat has seemingly brought it back to life, but will it catch on?

Ever since the advent of social media, viral trends have spawned, with the number continuing to grow over the years.

Whether it be TikTok, Twitter/X, Instagram or any of the mainstream social platforms, trends are being created everyday off the back of hugely popular posts.

Now, over ten years since the original Harlem Shake trend took over the world, it has resurfaced online. All thanks to one of the world’s biggest internet personalities: Kai Cenat.

But, what exactly was the Harlem Shake trend? And is it finally making a viral comeback?

What is the Harlem Shake trend?

The Harlem Shake trend involves an individual dancing alone to the song “Harlem Shake” by Baauer, while a group of people are stood around or behind them, still as a statue.

As soon as the heavy bass instrumental song drops after it gradually builds up, the rest of the group breaks out into wild dance moves. Typically, the group wears different bright and colorful costumes to pay homage to the original.

The original “Do the Harlem Shake” video posted to YouTube.

It was started by YouTuber Filthy Frank (also known as renowned music artist Joji), who uploaded the original “Harlem Shake” video on January 2013 to YouTube. It featured him as Filthy Frank in his iconic pink latex suit, with three others who start with a tame dance, before chaotically dancing when it drops.

Is the Harlem Shake viral trend back?

Yes, well sort of, all thanks to leading streamer and internet sensation Kai Cenat.

Your eyes and ears are not deceiving you, the iconic viral trend has resurfaced in a Twitch stream by Kai Cenat. On February 24, the streamer who has millions of followers across all his socials, started off the broadcast with a throwback to the classic trend.

A large group of people were seen standing still behind the Cenat, as he walked into the frame and played the iconic “Harlem Shake” song by Baauer.

As soon as it dropped, just like in 2013, everyone in the room suddenly stopped being statues and broke out into wild dance moves and loud shouting, as chaos ensued.

The clip has since gone viral across socials. Given Kai Cenat’s influence, time will tell if the Harlem Shake will start taking over the internet once more.