Exploring the Viral Impact of Noah Kahan and Hozier’s “Northern Attitude”
Vermont musician Noah Kahan recently expanded his acclaimed 2022 album, Stick Season, with an extended version titled Stick Season (Forever). This new release features reinterpreted hits in collaboration with several notable artists, including Gregory Alan Isakov, Kacey Musgraves, Brandi Carlile, and Post Malone. Among these collaborations, his duet with Irish singer-songwriter Hozier on “Northern Attitude” has developed a remarkable following, transforming into a viral sensation on TikTok.
From Anticipation to Viral Sensation
Kahan was the first to share a glimpse of “Northern Attitude” (Hozier’s Version) on TikTok prior to its official launch on November 6, 2023. His post generated excitement around this collaboration, but it was Hozier’s emotional “Hey!” ad-lib in the track that captured the collective attention of TikTok users. This 15-second segment evokes feelings of joy and elation, leading to a surge in videos that showcase life’s exhilarating moments, all paired with Hozier’s signature sound. The hashtag trends surrounding this song have seen tremendous growth, gaining traction since their inception in 2023 with thousands of new videos and millions of views.
The Joy of Ordinary Moments
Hozier’s heartfelt ad-lib has not only sparked creativity among users but has also invited a more universal interpretation. Videos that accompany this sound now range from breathtaking travel vistas to small personal victories, further emphasizing a shared sense of exhilaration. Notable figures, such as actress Drew Barrymore and astronaut Emily Calandrelli, have joined the TikTok trend by sharing their interpretations. Various brands, including Spotify and Hulu, have also contributed, expanding the trend’s reach across social media platforms.
Redefining the Meme
As with many internet phenomena, the versatility of Hozier’s yell has prompted numerous adaptations. While many early iterations celebrated monumental achievements, recent renditions have embraced the mundane aspects of daily life. Hilarious portrayals of relaxation—such as opening a refreshing bottle of soda or enjoying the bliss of finally shedding uncomfortable clothing—have emerged, showcasing a humorous twist. Disney fans have even reimagined the meme as “a moment that felt like Goofy’s yell,” adding further variety to its application.
Connections to Hozier’s Music
This playful meme culture cleverly ties back into Hozier’s expansive discography, which often explores deep emotional themes. In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Hozier emphasized the importance of emotional urgency in his songwriting: “Let somebody else do it,” he said, underscoring that if he does not feel a strong urge to create, he prefers to step back. His lyrics often juxtapose beauty and chaos, illustrating how even trivial moments can resonate powerfully.
For instance, in his song “To Someone From a Warm Climate (Uiscefhuaraithe),” Hozier conveys the intimate comfort of a shared moment amid chaos, a sentiment that resonates within the tapestry of everyday life. Whether it be monumental life events or simple pleasures like a well-made iced coffee, the “Hozier yell” meme captures these fleeting yet significant experiences that contribute to the fabric of human emotion.