Pikotaro’s New PPAP Hit Has A 20-Second Chorus Optimal For Handwashing
A man in leopard prints dancing in ludicrous fashion to the song “Pen Pineapple Apple Pen” took the Internet by storm in 2016.
By that, we mean it garnered close to 320 million views on YouTube and got every teen making PPAP covers on Instagram, certifiably a viral hit.
Well, the comedian behind that track, Pikotaro, is back just in time to raise our spirits with another ditty that’s viral — but in a different way.
This time, he encourages us all to “wash! wash! wash!” our hands.
PPAP singer makes long-awaited comeback
As the introduction to his trademark hit begins, Pikotaro starts dancing in his signature leopard print outfit.
However, as he continues, you’ll realise that this isn’t a song about simple things like apples or pens.
Rather, he’s adapted the hit into a public service announcement or PSA, urging all to adopt good hygiene habits amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
In fact, it is elaborately crafted to encourage good handwashing habits.
No apple, no pen, just his hands & soap
Instead of brandishing fruit and stationery, Pikotaro in PPAP 2020 now has just his hands and an imaginary bar of “soap” instead.
Combined together, we get clean hands — very clean hands.
Chorus is exactly 20 seconds long
We should rub our hands with soap for at least 20 seconds for it to be effective, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Many sing the birthday song twice while washing their hands to ensure they are absolutely free of germs.
Thus, it’s no coincidence that Pikotaro’s chorus, where he “washes” his hands, lasts exactly 20 seconds.
Covering almost all possible tones and expressions, his enthusiastic appeal is an amusing replacement to the birthday song.
Throwing in a dance routine might not be such a bad idea too.
PPAP now takes on a different meaning
With PPAP version 2.0, handwashing is now made particularly enjoyable for the young and old.
While “Pen Pineapple Apple Pen” will always be enshrined in the hall of fame, the abbreviation PPAP now adopts one more meaning.
In 2020, we shall Pray For People And Peace (PPAP).
Thank you, Pikotaro, for putting a smile on our faces during these tough times, and sending us a useful reminder in the process.
Featured image adapted from YouTube.
