Sad news has emerged of the death of US MC and songwriter DJ Casper, best known for the iconic dance hit “Cha-Cha Slide”. Real name Willie Perry Jr., the Chicago-born artist topped the UK singles chart with the song in 2004 and can be credited for creating its accompanying dance. He had been diagnosed with kidney and liver cancer in 2016 and had been receiving treatment. His family confirmed his passing on Tuesday.
Despite being released nearly 20 years ago, “Cha-Cha Slide” has remained a firm favourite at parties, weddings, school dances, and other events. DJ Casper created a second version of the song after it rose in popularity and has since been featured in many television shows, films, and commercials.
His departure will be deeply mourned by fans all over the world, who have been united in both grief and celebration of his legacy. The music he left behind will continue to bring joy to dance floors everywhere.
Casper Slide Part 2 is making waves around the globe. Whether you’re in a hockey stadium, basketball court, Olympic arena or football stadium, this song is popping up left and right, bringing joy to all who hear it.
But what’s the story behind the track? The creator, known as Casper for his all-white wardrobe while performing, said that he originally wrote the song as an aerobic exercise for his nephew. Yet, soon enough, an inspiring line dance came into play – with lyrics encouraging dancers to do everything from “slide to the left/right” to “clap their hands” and take it “all the way to the floor”.
In an interview with ABC7 in May, Casper shared how he hopes the record will serve as a reminder of the power of unity, community and positivity. He shared: “I have one of the biggest songs that’s played at all stadiums: hockey, basketball, football, baseball; they played it at the Olympics. It was just something that everybody could do.”
Casper Slide Part 2 is certainly more than a song – it’s a movement uniting people from all corners of the world through music and dance.