“It’s corn” has been living in my head rent-free for about two weeks, writes Cape {town} Etc’s Robyn Simpson. For those unfamiliar with the viral trend, just get TikTok. I was such a prude about the app at first, but I’m now considering cancelling my DStv and Netflix subscriptions because nothing is more entertaining.
I find TikTok to be a much happier place than other social media apps. It’s less pretentious than Facebook and Instagram, showcasing the best of humanity (dependent on who you follow, of course – not even this app could dodge “hot girl walks” and “what I eat in a day” bullets).
The “It’s corn!” trend is by far my best one yet –completely silly and open to an endless variety of interpretations.
Whichever way you slice the cob, it’s the ridiculously catchy tune that has everybody hooked. I open my eyes in the morning thinking about this damn corn song (not the worst way to ensure a “corntastic” day).
@capetownetc For us, we really like #CapeTown ?✨? Have a corntastic day! #itscorn ♬ original sound – capetownetc
What started as a Julian Shapiro-Barnum Recess Therapy episode on YouTube morphed into a digital takeover no one could have seen coming. In the interview, Tariq adorably shares his delightful commentary on the joys of corns. My hope is to live life with the amount of love and passion that this little guy has for a mealie.
The original interview is something special in itself, but Schmoyoho’s remixed audio is what got the internet to really bite. So much so that “Corn Tok” is now a thing.
@schmoyoho intro song for any meal/snack with corn ? – from iconic interview on @doingthings ♬ It’s Corn – Tariq & The Gregory Brothers & Recess Therapy
The first remixed audio is quite short, including those seriously golden moments from the Recess Therapy episode. Well, I’m ready to learn some new lyrics because a longer version has been released, and really, “I can’t imagine a more beautiful thing”.
WATCH:
Tariq has become an internet sensation and has profited from the wave. He’s appeared in a few commercials and his family has set up an account for the youngster who is now known as “corn boy”.
Some social media users have had a rant over the ethics of a child appearing on the platform, whilst others have accused the family of being “sellouts” for capitalising on joy.
On the flip side, people have raised the question: “If it’s wrong for Tariq to profit from going viral, should anyone?”
Also read:
American TikToker dispels misconceptions about SA, and falls in love with Cape Town
Picture: Screenshot / YouTube