There is one song that many people think of when recalling the dance music that represented the incredible renaissance of the 1990s.

It is the globally famous song by German singer Haddaway, "What Is Love," released in 1993. This song did not just end as a hit; it possesses a unique vitality that continues to be played and referenced in clubs, movies, and even internet memes.

Haddaway was born in Trinidad and Tobago and moved to Germany, where he gained great popularity in the European dance music market. His voice was deep and powerful while also showcasing a captivating rhythmic beat.

"What Is Love" was somewhat different from the simple Eurodance songs that were common at the time.

Amidst the repetitive melody and electronic sounds, there was a strangely emotional resonance, and the lyrics posed a very simple yet universal question: "What is love?" Therefore, even after more than 30 years, it still resonates and evokes empathy across generations.

Another reason this song gained explosive popularity was its connection to the club culture of the time.

In the early to mid-90s, techno and house music dominated clubs in Europe and the United States, and Haddaway's music followed that trend while having a melody that was perfect for mainstream enjoyment. Thanks to this, it was loved not only by people dancing in clubs but also by the general public listening to music on the radio. This is why it climbed to the top of the Billboard charts and achieved success worldwide, not just in Europe.

Interestingly, "What Is Love" was not just consumed as music but became a cultural code.

For example, in the American comedy program Saturday Night Live, a sketch comedy called 'Roxbury Guys' was created with this song as the background, and the scene where the actors bob their heads side to side while dancing later led to the movie A Night at the Roxbury. Since then, "What Is Love" has been used as background music in countless internet memes and YouTube parody videos.

Haddaway had other songs that were quite popular, such as "Life," "Rock My Heart," and "I Miss You," which were loved in the European charts in the mid to late 90s. However, it is not an exaggeration to say that the song that left the most intense impression worldwide was "What Is Love." Because of this song, Haddaway is still referred to as a 'One Hit Wonder,' but I believe that being remembered by people around the world for one song is a remarkable achievement in another sense.

Personally, when I listen to this song, I feel that the repeated question "What is love?" ultimately lingers without finding an answer. So while I shake my body joyfully, a part of my heart seriously contemplates, "What on earth is love?" 

Even now, if you go on YouTube, you will find countless videos of people around the world dancing to this song, parodies, and remix versions being uploaded continuously.

There are many versions remixed by the latest DJs, and it is common for younger generations to use it briefly on TikTok. It is truly amazing that a song created in the early 1990s is still resonating on the internet and stages in the 2020s.

Ultimately, Haddaway's song, especially "What Is Love," has become a symbol that transcends simple dance music, penetrating through eras and cultures. A song that excited those in their 20s at the time now touches the memories of those who are now in their 40s and 50s while also being embraced as 'hip retro' by younger generations, reminding us of the incredible power of music.

Tonight, someone will be wearing headphones or dancing to this song in a club, swaying to the rhythm.