Hi Barbie fans!
Can you feel the Kenergy? We just can’t get Kenough of the latest dance trend to this hot single from the 2nd highest grossing film of 2023 Barbie. As of August 21st, “I’m Just Ken” has generated over 47MM streams on Spotify and inspired over 100,000 TikTok video. The hashtag #kenergy has been viewed over 375MM times, #imjustken over 457MM times, and #kenough over 495MM times. It’s safe to say there’s never been more interest in Ken than now as indicated by the fanfare around Barbie brand owner Mattel’s roll out of the new “Faux Fur Coat Ken” doll inspired by Ryan Gosling’s portrayal of the character in the film.
The resurgence or perhaps first ever excitement for Ken dolls is largely due to the popularity and talent of Mr. Ryan Gosling. Star of blockbuster favorites like La La Land, The Notebook, and Drive, Ryan Gosling infuses sex appeal, humor and humanity into the longtime known but misunderstood Ken character. He also brings a skill few leading men in cinema can offer, and that is dance ability. Any title that’s tapped Gosling’s skills as a dancer has benefited from his talents, and Barbie is no exception.
Fans of Gosling and the Barbie movie have gone on to speculate that some of the iconic moves from “I’m Just Ken” (choreographed by London based choreographer Jennifer White) may have been inspired by the long time viral video of Gosling’s 1992 dance recital. In the video, Gosling, who was 12 years old at the time of the taping, wears a satin purple shirt, shiny hammer pants, and a confident smirk as he effortlessly executes the jazz meets hip hop routine. He performs front and center surrounded by a sea of girls in purple two pieces clearly undeterred by being in the spotlight when it comes to dance.
Since the release of the Barbie movie in July, creators have taken to TikTok and other platforms to put their own spin on the Ken dance routine. DanceOn combed through the many “I’m Just Ken” videos so you don’t have to, and we’re here to share our favorite renditions from the imaginations of some very special creators who are Ken enough for us!
Thanks for your Kenspiration:
@nathanlust
@rafayejazz
@fsacappella
@michaelquinnnnn