20 Fingers: The Controversial Band Behind "Short Dick Man"
In the realm of pop music, few acts have garnered as much notoriety and controversy as the Dutch band 20 Fingers. Their breakout hit, "Short Dick Man," became an instant sensation upon its release in 1994, propelling them into the limelight. However, their newfound fame came with its share of challenges and tribulations.
Formation and Early Success
20 Fingers was formed in 1990 by three childhood friends: Michael Schaap, Frank Post, and Daniel Lohues. The trio shared a passion for music and began experimenting with electronic dance music. Their breakout moment came with the release of "Short Dick Man," a tongue-in-cheek parody of the 1990 hit "Pump Up the Jam" by Technotronic.
Controversy and Censorship
The release of "Short Dick Man" sparked widespread controversy due to its explicit lyrics and suggestive music video. The song was banned by numerous radio stations and MTV refused to play the video. Despite the censorship attempts, the song became a worldwide hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries.
Legal Battles and Breakup
The success of "Short Dick Man" drew the attention of record labels and legal authorities. The song was accused of violating copyright laws, as it sampled heavily from Technotronic's "Pump Up the Jam." A lengthy legal battle ensued, resulting in a settlement and a financial penalty for 20 Fingers. The controversy and legal issues took a toll on the band, and they eventually disbanded in 1997.
Discography
Despite their short-lived career, 20 Fingers released a number of albums and singles, including:
* 1994: "Short Dick Man" (single) * 1995: "We Are 20 Fingers" (album) * 1996: "Supernatural" (album) * 1997: "Best of 20 Fingers" (compilation album)
Members and Legacy
The three members of 20 Fingers went on to pursue different paths in the music industry. Michael Schaap continued to produce electronic music under the alias DJ Chucky. Frank Post became a successful DJ and record producer, known for his work with artists such as Tiësto and Armin van Buuren. Daniel Lohues returned to his Dutch roots and released several albums of folk and country music.
The legacy of 20 Fingers remains complex and controversial. While their hit song "Short Dick Man" brought them fame and fortune, it also overshadowed their other musical contributions. The band's brief but tumultuous career serves as a cautionary tale about the double-edged sword of instant fame and the challenges of navigating the music industry in the midst of controversy.