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

"U Can't Touch This" by MC Hammer is more than just a catchy tune; it's a cultural phenomenon that defined an era. Released in 1990, the song quickly climbed the charts and became an anthem, instantly recognizable by its infectious beat and Hammer's signature dance moves. But what's the real story behind this iconic hit? Let's dive into the history, impact, and enduring legacy of "U Can't Touch This."

At its core, "U Can't Touch This" samples the instantly recognizable guitar riff from Rick James's "Super Freak." This sample is so central to the song's identity that it's impossible to imagine the track without it. The genius of MC Hammer and his production team was in how they repurposed this funk riff, blending it with hip-hop beats and Hammer's charismatic delivery to create something entirely new. The result was a sound that was both familiar and fresh, appealing to a wide audience and setting the stage for the song's massive success.

Beyond the music, the lyrics of "U Can't Touch This" also played a significant role in its popularity. The song is an unapologetic celebration of Hammer's success, talent, and unique style. Lines like "Fresh new kicks, advance moves" and "Gold medals, gold pendants" paint a picture of a confident and successful artist who knows his worth. This message resonated with listeners, especially young people, who were inspired by Hammer's self-assuredness and his rise to fame. The song became an anthem of empowerment, encouraging listeners to embrace their own talents and to believe in themselves.

Of course, no discussion of "U Can't Touch This" would be complete without mentioning the music video. The video was a visual feast, showcasing Hammer's energetic dance moves, flashy fashion sense, and larger-than-life personality. From the iconic Hammer pants to the synchronized dance routines, every element of the video was designed to grab attention and to solidify Hammer's status as a superstar. The video was a constant presence on MTV, further amplifying the song's popularity and making Hammer a household name. It remains a defining example of the power of music videos in shaping popular culture.

The impact of "U Can't Touch This" on popular culture is undeniable. The song not only topped the charts but also permeated every aspect of mainstream culture. It was featured in movies, television shows, and commercials, becoming a ubiquitous part of the cultural landscape. Hammer's signature dance moves were imitated by fans around the world, and his fashion sense influenced countless trends. The song's success also helped to pave the way for other hip-hop artists to break into the mainstream, demonstrating the commercial potential of the genre.

However, the song also faced its share of controversy. The use of the "Super Freak" sample without proper clearance initially led to legal issues, highlighting the complexities of sampling in music. Despite these challenges, "U Can't Touch This" remains a beloved classic, a testament to the power of creativity, innovation, and a whole lot of swagger. So, the next time you hear that iconic beat, remember the story behind the song and the cultural impact it had on the world.

The Rise of MC Hammer

MC Hammer, born Stanley Kirk Burrell, rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most recognizable figures in the music industry. Before his music career took off, Hammer had dreams of playing professional baseball. He even worked as a batboy for the Oakland Athletics, where his energetic personality and natural charisma earned him the nickname "Hammer" after baseball legend Hank Aaron, who was also known as "The Hammer." Though his baseball aspirations didn't pan out, this nickname would stick with him and eventually become synonymous with his musical persona.

Hammer's foray into music began in the early 1980s, during the burgeoning hip-hop scene. He started by performing at local clubs and parties, gradually building a following with his energetic stage presence and catchy rhymes. He initially funded his music career through various ventures, including running a local car service and selling records out of the trunk of his car. This entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to his craft would prove to be crucial to his later success.

His independent releases caught the attention of major labels, and in 1988, he signed with Capitol Records. It was with Capitol that Hammer released his breakthrough album, "Let's Get It Started," which achieved multi-platinum status. This album showcased Hammer's unique blend of hip-hop, pop, and dance music, setting the stage for his meteoric rise to fame. Tracks like "Pump It Up" and "Turn This Mutha Out" became instant hits, establishing Hammer as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

Following the success of "Let's Get It Started," Hammer went on to release "Please Hammer, Don't Hurt 'Em" in 1990, which became his most commercially successful album. This album featured "U Can't Touch This," which propelled Hammer to superstardom. The album's success was driven not only by the hit single but also by Hammer's relentless promotion and innovative marketing strategies. He understood the importance of creating a complete package, combining his music with visually stunning music videos, energetic live performances, and a distinct fashion sense.

Hammer's rise to fame was characterized by his ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels. His music was catchy and danceable, his lyrics were relatable, and his image was aspirational. He represented a new kind of hip-hop artist, one who was not afraid to embrace pop sensibilities and to appeal to a wide range of listeners. This approach, while sometimes criticized by purists, proved to be incredibly successful, making Hammer one of the most popular and influential artists of his time.

However, Hammer's career also faced its share of challenges. His lavish spending habits and ambitious business ventures eventually led to financial difficulties. Despite these setbacks, Hammer remains an important figure in music history, and his contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated. His story serves as a reminder of the highs and lows of fame and the importance of staying true to oneself.

The Impact on Music and Culture

"U Can't Touch This" had a monumental impact on both the music industry and popular culture. The song's infectious beat, catchy lyrics, and iconic music video helped to break down barriers and introduce hip-hop to a wider audience. It wasn't just a hit song; it was a cultural phenomenon that shaped the sound and style of the early 1990s.

One of the most significant ways "U Can't Touch This" impacted music was through its innovative use of sampling. The song's reliance on the "Super Freak" riff demonstrated the power of sampling as a creative tool. While sampling had been a part of hip-hop for years, Hammer's mainstream success brought the practice to the forefront, sparking conversations about copyright law and the ethics of musical borrowing. The song's success also paved the way for other artists to incorporate samples into their music, contributing to the evolution of hip-hop and popular music.

Beyond its musical impact, "U Can't Touch This" also had a profound influence on fashion. Hammer's signature Hammer pants became a global trend, imitated by fans around the world. These baggy, parachute-like pants were not only a fashion statement but also a symbol of Hammer's unique style and persona. They represented a departure from traditional hip-hop fashion, reflecting Hammer's willingness to take risks and to embrace his own individuality. The Hammer pants became so popular that they were even featured in movies, television shows, and commercials, solidifying their place in popular culture.

The music video for "U Can't Touch This" also played a crucial role in shaping its impact. The video was a visual extravaganza, showcasing Hammer's energetic dance moves, flashy fashion sense, and larger-than-life personality. It was a constant presence on MTV, helping to propel the song to the top of the charts. The video's innovative choreography and visual effects set a new standard for music videos, influencing countless artists and filmmakers. It remains a defining example of the power of music videos in shaping popular culture and launching artists to superstardom.

The song's impact extended beyond music and fashion, influencing language and popular expressions. The phrase "U Can't Touch This" became a catchphrase, used in a variety of contexts to express confidence, invincibility, or simply to make a playful statement. It entered the lexicon of popular culture, appearing in movies, television shows, and everyday conversation. The phrase's enduring popularity is a testament to the song's cultural impact and its ability to resonate with audiences on a deep level.

While "U Can't Touch This" faced its share of criticism, particularly from those who felt it was too commercial or that it appropriated the "Super Freak" riff, its impact on music and culture is undeniable. The song helped to break down barriers, introduce hip-hop to a wider audience, and shape the sound and style of the early 1990s. It remains a beloved classic, a testament to the power of creativity, innovation, and a whole lot of swagger. So, the next time you hear that iconic beat, remember the story behind the song and the cultural impact it had on the world.