Is It The Hokey Pokey Or Hokey?
Many people have fond childhood memories of dancing in a circle, putting their right foot in, taking it out, and shaking it all about. The cheerful and silly tune that accompanies these movements is widely recognized across the English-speaking world. But there’s an interesting debate that often arises: is the correct name of the dance The Hokey Pokey or just The Hokey? While the question may seem trivial at first glance, it opens up a fascinating window into regional language usage, cultural variations, and even the evolution of traditional songs. Understanding the differences and origins can offer insight into how playful language is shaped by local influences and history.
Understanding the Terminology
What is The Hokey Pokey?
The Hokey Pokey is a well-known participation dance in which people follow lyrics that tell them to move parts of their body in and out of a circle. The lyrics typically go:
- You put your right hand in
- You put your right hand out
- You put your right hand in
- And you shake it all about
- You do the Hokey Pokey
- And you turn yourself around
- That’s what it’s all about!
Each verse replaces right hand with another body part, making it a fun and interactive activity, especially popular at children’s parties, schools, and family gatherings. The phrase Hokey Pokey is an integral part of the chorus, and many people believe it refers to the name of the entire dance.
What About The Hokey?
In some parts of the world, notably the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries, the same dance is referred to as The Hokey Cokey. The lyrics and motions remain largely the same, but the chorus changes slightly to say You do the Hokey Cokey, rather than Hokey Pokey. However, the term Hokey on its own is rarely used to describe the dance in either version. This has led to occasional confusion or oversimplification, where people mistakenly refer to it just as The Hokey.
Regional Differences in Naming
North America
In the United States and Canada, the song and dance are almost exclusively known as The Hokey Pokey. It is considered a staple of American childhood culture, appearing in various settings such as camps, birthday parties, and even physical education classes.
United Kingdom and Other Commonwealth Nations
In the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, the name The Hokey Cokey is more common. The lyrics differ slightly to match local expressions and rhyming preferences. This version dates back to the 1940s and was made popular by British bandleader Jimmy Kennedy, who adapted the earlier versions of the song.
Is There a Hokey Without the Rest?
The term Hokey alone is not commonly used to refer to the entire dance. Instead, it’s often used in a different context altogether. In American slang, hokey is an adjective that means overly sentimental, corny, or contrived. This usage is unrelated to the dance and could lead to misunderstandings if someone tries to shorten the song title to simply Hokey.
Origins and History
The Evolution of the Dance
Though The Hokey Pokey feels like a product of the 20th century, its roots may extend further back. Some sources suggest that the song evolved from British and Scottish folk dances. There is also speculation that a similar chant was used in religious ceremonies as far back as the 17th century. The familiar structure of telling dancers what to do step-by-step has long been a method of teaching coordination and rhythm.
Contested Claims
Several individuals have claimed to be the original creator of the modern version of The Hokey Pokey. These include Larry LaPrise in the United States, Jimmy Kennedy in the UK, and even earlier music hall performers. The disputes over ownership have even led to lawsuits, but ultimately, the dance’s wide popularity has cemented it in public domain culture.
Cultural Significance
A Universally Recognized Tune
Regardless of the name used, the song’s universal appeal lies in its simplicity and interactive nature. It requires no prior skill, encourages participation, and creates a sense of fun and camaraderie. Whether you grew up calling it the Hokey Pokey or the Hokey Cokey, the spirit of the dance remains the same.
Use in Education and Therapy
Beyond entertainment, this dance is also used in educational and therapeutic settings. It helps young children develop motor skills, coordination, and spatial awareness. Therapists also use it with elderly patients or individuals with cognitive impairments as a form of light physical activity and mental engagement.
Why the Confusion Happens
Mixing Up the Names
The confusion between Hokey, Hokey Pokey, and Hokey Cokey stems from regional exposure and media influence. If someone hears one version frequently, they might assume it’s the only or original version. That’s why travelers or immigrants sometimes find themselves puzzled when others refer to the dance by a different name.
The Role of Media and Pop Culture
Television, movies, and music have played a role in spreading the dance globally. However, different versions of the lyrics are used depending on the region where the media is produced. As a result, the term Hokey Pokey may be more prominent in American media, while Hokey Cokey continues to appear in British content.
Is There a Right Answer?
Context Matters
So, is it the Hokey Pokey or just Hokey? The most accurate answer is that the full name is either The Hokey Pokey or The Hokey Cokey, depending on where you are. The term Hokey by itself is not typically used to refer to the dance, and doing so may lead to confusion due to its unrelated meaning in informal speech.
Respecting Variations
Language and culture are fluid, and traditions evolve with them. Instead of trying to determine which term is ‘right’ or ‘wrong,’ it’s more useful to understand the cultural background that led to different versions. Recognizing both terms as valid expressions of the same joyful experience helps preserve the spirit of the dance across generations and borders.
In the end, whether you grew up with the Hokey Pokey or the Hokey Cokey, the essential experience remains the same a fun, interactive song and dance that brings people together. Saying just Hokey is not typical and may cause confusion, especially given its separate meaning as an adjective in English. Understanding the regional differences and origins not only clears up the confusion but also enriches our appreciation of this beloved cultural tradition. So next time the music starts, just put your right hand in and enjoy whatever you call it, that’s what it’s all about!