What the cannibal dance is and why it trended
The "cannibal dance" on TikTok refers to a short choreography set to the track "CANNiBAL" by rapper Iggy Azalea, popularized by user @daddyyy.y in 2020. The trend features stylized, sharp movements and a distinctive crouch-walk that users dub the "cannibal walk." It spread widely because the beat is high-energy, the steps are simple enough to replicate, and the aesthetic is bold and meme-friendly. Unlike narrative-driven dances, this trend leans into persona and humor, which helped it stand out in a crowded soundtrack landscape and remain recognizable as an evergreen TikTok reference.
Origins of the cannibal dance meme
Music and first viral post
The trend sits on top of Iggy Azalea's 2019 song "CANNiBAL," which had already circulated on TikTok before the choreographed version took off. The specific dance was launched by @daddyyy.y in 2020; other creators quickly stitched, duet, and reaction-clipped the video, accelerating its reach. Because TikTok remix culture encourages variation, the routine became a template for comedy, transition, and editing hacks rather than a one-off moment.
Contributing factors to virality
- Strong bassline and repetitive hook that support choreography
- Low barrier to entry: the core step is a simple walk and shoulder hit
- Visual distinctiveness, including the low, wide stance that reads as "cannibal-like"
- Community stitching that added layered spins and joke formats
Breaking down the dance moves
The signature elements of the cannibal dance include a side-to-side chest pop, a half-squat walk with feet positioned wider than hip-width, and a quick arm swing that contrasts the torso movement. Transitions often use a hand-to-head motion to "become" the cannibal character, playing into the meme's exaggerated persona. Because the choreography is short—usually 8 or 16 counts—it works well in montages, before-and-after edits, and reaction clips.
Meaning, tone, and community interpretation
Within TikTok contexts, the dance is rarely intended as a serious statement; it functions more as an identity bit, a playful exaggeration of being "cannibal-level hungry" or mischievous. The humor relies on contrast: cute or awkward performances paired with a fierce beat. For some creators, it became a versatile tool for comedy skits, brand integrations, and aesthetic edits, demonstrating how a single sound can accrete multiple meanings across subcultures.
Impact on trends, music, and creator opportunities
Songs that gain traction through dance challenges can see measurable upticks in streams and follower growth, and "CANNiBAL" is no exception. The cannibal dance illustrated how a creator-led trend can revive a track and inspire official remixes, duet chains, and cross-platform reposts from Instagram Reels to YouTube Shorts. Brands and managers have used similar audio not just for reach, but to tap into an established visual language that communicates edginess and humor in a single frame.
FAQs
- Who originated the cannibal dance on TikTok? The widely recognized version was created by @daddyyy.y in 2020 using Iggy Azalea's "CANNiBAL."
- Is the cannibal dance still relevant? It remains a recognized reference in TikTok edits and meme templates, though it is less dominant than during its peak in 2020–2021.
- Can I use the audio commercially? Commercial use of the track typically requires licensing from the rights holder or adherence to TikTok's commercial music policies; check TikTok's music library and Iggy Azalea's publisher for clearance.
- What other songs sound similar and work for the choreography? Creators sometimes swap in bass-heavy hip-hop or pop tracks with similar tempo and structure, but the original audio is "CANNiBAL" by Iggy Azalea.
- Are there copywriting or brand risks? The dance is meme-safe, but be mindful of music copyright and avoid implying endorsement by rights holders without permission.