The Inspiration Behind Funkytown
The idea for Funkytown was born out of my love for the disco music. I wanted to create something that celebrated the music, fashion, and dance of that time while adding a modern twist. The song Funkytown by Lipps Inc. was the perfect soundtrack it’s upbeat, timeless, and impossible not to dance to. I envisioned a video that would transport viewers back to the golden age of disco, complete with vibrant choreography, colorful outfits, and a whole lot of fun.
Collaborating with Eva Nitsch
To bring this vision to life, I teamed up with the incredibly talented Eva Nitsch, a choreographer with a knack for creating movements that are both dynamic and expressive. Eva’s creativity and passion for dance were instrumental in shaping the project. Together, we spent countless hours brainstorming ideas, refining the choreography, and ensuring every step matched the energy of the music.
A Day at the Youth Center
One of the most memorable parts of this journey was the day we spent filming at a local youth center. The space was transformed into our very own Studio 54, complete with disco balls, neon lights, and a dance floor that buzzed with excitement. The young dancers we worked with brought so much enthusiasm and talent to the project, and their energy was contagious. Watching them bring Eva’s choreography to life was truly inspiring.
The Global Response
When we finally released the video, the response was overwhelming. Within weeks, it had garnered millions of views, and the comments started pouring in from all corners of the world. It was incredible to see how something as simple as a dance video could connect people across cultures and languages. I remember reading comments in Spanish, Chinese, and many other languages, each one expressing joy, nostalgia, and appreciation for the project. It was a humbling reminder of the universal power of music and dance.
A Link to the Magic
If you haven’t seen it yet, you can check out the *Funkytown* video here: [https://youtu.be/ewZJjLKVU_A?si=UKLcpq4lex3CLRV9](https://youtu.be/ewZJjLKVU_A?si=UKLcpq4lex3CLRV9). Whether you’re a disco enthusiast or just looking for a dose of positivity, I hope it brings a smile to your face and gets your feet moving.
Final Thoughts
Creating *Funkytown* was a labor of love, and I’m so grateful to everyone who helped make it possible—Eva Nitsch, the talented dancers, and the incredible online community that embraced it with open arms. This project reminded me that art has the power to transcend boundaries and bring people together, even if just for a few minutes of joy.
So, here’s to Studio 54, to disco, and to the timeless magic of *Funkytown*. Keep dancing, keep dreaming, and never stop spreading the love.
With gratitude,
Shondell Mims