Mon Sep 23 22:00:00 UTC 2024: ## 20 Years Later, “Call On Me” Remains a Controversial Hit
Twenty years after its release, Eric Prydz’s hit single “Call On Me” continues to be a source of both fascination and disdain. The track, which famously sampled Steve Winwood’s “Valerie” and featured a highly suggestive music video, topped charts worldwide and became a club staple.
The music video, set in an aerobics class with a cast of scantily-clad women and a seemingly infatuated male instructor played by Juan Pablo Di Pace (now known for his role in “The Mattachine Family”), was a viral sensation. It spawned a full-length workout video and even inspired a remix of Irene Cara’s “Flashdance… What a Feeling.”
Despite its immense popularity, “Call On Me” also garnered criticism for its suggestive content and “lowest common denominator vibe,” as described by NME. Prydz himself, while not embarrassed by the song, has refused to perform it live since 2005, choosing to focus on his other projects.
While the song’s legacy is controversial, its lasting impact is undeniable. Its enduring popularity and cultural influence continue to resonate even after two decades, proving that “Call On Me” is more than just a catchy tune – it’s a cultural phenomenon.
First Piper 