U Can't Touch This: The Story Of MC Hammer's 1990 Hit

"U Can't Touch This" by MC Hammer. Just hearing that title probably gets the song stuck in your head, right? It's one of those iconic tracks that defined an era. Released in 1990, this song wasn't just a hit; it was a cultural phenomenon. From the unforgettable beat to the signature dance moves, MC Hammer took the world by storm. Let's dive into what made this song so special, its impact, and why it's still talked about today.

The Rise of MC Hammer

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of "U Can't Touch This," it's essential to understand who MC Hammer was and the impact he had on the music scene. Stanley Kirk Burrell, known professionally as MC Hammer (later simply Hammer), emerged from Oakland, California, in the late 1980s. He wasn't just another rapper; he was an entertainer, a showman who combined rap with pop sensibilities, elaborate dance routines, and a larger-than-life persona.

MC Hammer's early career involved self-promotion and grassroots efforts. He sold records out of the trunk of his car before landing a record deal. His breakthrough album, "Let's Get It Started," in 1988, was a significant success, but it was his 1990 album, "Please Hammer, Don't Hurt 'Em," that catapulted him to superstardom. This album, driven by the infectious energy of "U Can't Touch This," became one of the best-selling rap albums of all time. Hammer's appeal wasn't limited to just rap fans; he crossed over into the mainstream, appealing to a broad audience with his catchy tunes and family-friendly image. He was a constant presence on MTV, and his concerts were known for their elaborate staging and high-energy performances.

Hammer's success was a double-edged sword. While he brought rap music to a wider audience, he also faced criticism from some corners for being too commercial and not 'authentic' enough. Regardless, his impact on pop culture is undeniable. He paved the way for other rappers to achieve mainstream success and helped to popularize rap music around the world. He changed the game by showing everyone that rap could be both commercially successful and widely appealing. His influence can still be seen today in the way artists blend genres and create visually stunning performances. The rise of MC Hammer was a key moment in the evolution of hip-hop, marking a shift towards greater commercial viability and wider acceptance.

The Anatomy of "U Can't Touch This"

So, what exactly made "U Can't Touch This" such a mega-hit? Several elements came together to create this unforgettable track.

• The Hook: First and foremost, the song's hook is instantly recognizable. The chant of "U Can't Touch This" is simple, catchy, and impossible to resist. It's the kind of phrase that gets stuck in your head and makes you want to move. The simplicity of the hook made it accessible to a wide audience, regardless of their familiarity with rap music.
• The Beat: The song's beat is built around a sample from Rick James's "Super Freak." This sample is arguably the song's backbone, providing the funky, danceable rhythm that makes you want to get up and groove. The genius of using the "Super Freak" sample lies in its familiarity and inherent catchiness. Even those who had never heard of MC Hammer before were likely familiar with the original Rick James track, creating an instant connection with the song.
• The Lyrics: While the lyrics aren't particularly deep or complex, they perfectly complement the song's energy. The verses are filled with boastful rhymes about MC Hammer's skills and untouchable status. They're fun, confident, and contribute to the overall feeling of invincibility that the song conveys. The lyrics were also carefully crafted to be radio-friendly, avoiding explicit language and ensuring that the song could be played on a wide range of stations.
• The Music Video: The music video for "U Can't Touch This" was a game-changer. With its vibrant colors, high-energy dance routines, and Hammer's signature parachute pants, it was visually captivating. The video was in heavy rotation on MTV, further propelling the song's popularity. The video’s choreography, led by MC Hammer himself, became instantly iconic, with fans around the world trying to emulate his moves. The video perfectly captured the song's spirit of fun and exuberance, making it an essential part of the song's overall success.
• The Dance: Let's not forget the dance moves! MC Hammer's energetic and distinctive dance style was a huge part of the song's appeal. His signature moves, including the Hammer Dance, became a global phenomenon, with people of all ages trying to imitate them. The dance moves were so iconic that they were incorporated into popular culture, appearing in movies, TV shows, and commercials. The dance was more than just entertainment; it was a form of self-expression, allowing fans to connect with the music on a physical level.

The Impact and Legacy

"U Can't Touch This" had a profound impact on popular culture. It wasn't just a song; it was a moment. Here's how:

• Mainstream Breakthrough: The song helped bring rap music to a wider audience. It proved that rap could be commercially successful and appeal to people of all backgrounds. It paved the way for other rap artists to achieve mainstream success and helped to break down barriers in the music industry.
• Cultural Phenomenon: The song became a cultural phenomenon, influencing fashion, dance, and popular culture. Hammer's parachute pants became a fashion statement, and his dance moves were imitated around the world. The song's catchphrase, "U Can't Touch This," became a part of everyday language, used to express confidence, invincibility, or simply to inject some fun into a situation.
• Awards and Recognition: "U Can't Touch This" won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance. It solidified MC Hammer's place as a major force in the music industry and cemented the song's legacy as one of the greatest rap songs of all time.
• Lasting Influence: Even today, "U Can't Touch This" remains a popular and recognizable song. It's frequently used in movies, TV shows, and commercials, ensuring that it continues to reach new generations. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with audiences of all ages.

The Controversy

Despite its success, "U Can't Touch This" wasn't without its controversies. One of the main points of contention was the song's use of the "Super Freak" sample. While MC Hammer gave credit to Rick James, he didn't initially seek permission or pay royalties for the sample. This led to a legal battle that was eventually settled out of court.

The controversy surrounding the sample raised important questions about copyright law and the use of samples in hip-hop music. It highlighted the need for artists to properly license and credit the sources they use in their music. The case also helped to shape the legal landscape surrounding sampling, setting precedents that are still relevant today. Despite the controversy, the use of the "Super Freak" sample remains one of the song's most distinctive features, contributing to its overall catchiness and appeal.

Where is MC Hammer Now?

After the phenomenal success of "U Can't Touch This" and his "Please Hammer, Don't Hurt 'Em" album, MC Hammer's career experienced a downturn. Financial troubles and changing musical tastes led to a decline in his popularity. However, Hammer has remained active in the entertainment industry, exploring various ventures.

In recent years, MC Hammer has reinvented himself as a tech entrepreneur and public speaker. He has been involved in several tech startups and has spoken at conferences about the intersection of technology and culture. He has also remained active in music, releasing new songs and performing at concerts. Despite the ups and downs of his career, MC Hammer's legacy as a cultural icon remains intact.

Conclusion

"U Can't Touch This" is more than just a song; it's a cultural artifact. It represents a specific moment in time and encapsulates the energy and optimism of the early 1990s. Its infectious beat, catchy hook, and memorable dance moves made it a global phenomenon. While MC Hammer's career may have had its ups and downs, the impact of "U Can't Touch This" remains undeniable. It's a song that continues to be enjoyed and celebrated by people of all ages, cementing its place as one of the most iconic and influential songs in the history of hip-hop. So next time you hear that iconic beat, don't be afraid to bust out your best Hammer dance moves and remember the magic of "U Can't Touch This."