Carlton Banks’ impromptu dance routines were a cornerstone of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” defining his character and providing countless moments of comedic gold. But the most iconic and arguably the first truly memorable dance occurs in Season 1, Episode 14, titled “It Had To Be You.”
Defining the “Carlton Dance” in Pop Culture
The “Carlton Dance,” as it came to be affectionately known, transcends mere choreography. It’s a cultural phenomenon, a shorthand for a certain kind of preppy enthusiasm and a demonstration of self-expression devoid of self-consciousness. It’s become a staple at weddings, parties, and even sporting events. But what made this dance so special, and why does “It Had To Be You” hold such a significant place in its history? The answer lies in the confluence of several factors: the music, the performance, and the comedic setup.
The scene in question sees Carlton, played brilliantly by Alfonso Ribeiro, attempting to impress a date. He’s eager to showcase his impeccable taste and refined sensibilities. When Tom Jones’ “It’s Not Unusual” comes on the radio, Carlton is overcome with an irrepressible urge to dance. What follows is a series of jerky, exuberant movements, clearly inspired by Courtney Cox’s dance in Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark” music video and Eddie Murphy’s “White Man Dance” routine from his stand-up. Ribeiro adds his own unique flair, resulting in a dance that’s both awkward and endearing.
It’s not just the steps themselves that are memorable. It’s the way Carlton executes them. His rigid posture, his overly enthusiastic facial expressions, and his complete lack of awareness of how he looks make the dance hilariously charming. The contrast between Carlton’s refined exterior and his unrestrained dance moves is a key part of the humor.
Context is Key: Why “It Had To Be You” Matters
While Carlton danced in many episodes, “It Had To Be You” is pivotal because it establishes the dance as a recurring element of his character. It’s the origin story, the moment where viewers first witness the uninhibited joy that the music brings out in him. Subsequent dances build upon this foundation, becoming a beloved running gag throughout the series.
The episode itself is well-crafted, featuring a relatable storyline about the pressure of first dates and the struggle to be yourself. Carlton’s desire to impress his date is something many viewers can identify with, making his eventual dance even more humorous and sympathetic. The juxtaposition of his earnest desire to make a good impression with his utterly bizarre dance moves creates a perfect comedic moment.
FAQ: Decoding the Carlton Dance Phenomenon
Here are some frequently asked questions that shed further light on the Carlton Dance and its lasting legacy:
1. Was the Carlton Dance choreographed?
No, the Carlton Dance was mostly improvised by Alfonso Ribeiro. He drew inspiration from Courtney Cox’s dance in Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark” and Eddie Murphy’s “White Man Dance,” but the specific movements and style were entirely his own. Ribeiro has repeatedly stated that he didn’t consider himself a dancer and that the awkwardness was part of the charm.
2. How did Alfonso Ribeiro come up with the Carlton Dance?
Ribeiro has described his inspirations as a blend of Courteney Cox’s “Dancing in the Dark” moves and Eddie Murphy’s stand-up comedy routine. He essentially combined those two elements and added his own unique, awkward flair to create the iconic dance.
3. Which other songs are featured in Carlton’s dance routines?
While “It’s Not Unusual” by Tom Jones is the most iconic track associated with the Carlton Dance, other songs have been featured in his routines. These include, but are not limited to, “Jump On It!” by Sir Mix-A-Lot and various upbeat pop songs that fit Carlton’s energetic style.
4. How has the Carlton Dance impacted popular culture?
The Carlton Dance has become a cultural touchstone, instantly recognizable and widely imitated. It’s been referenced in countless TV shows, movies, and commercials. It’s also a popular dance at weddings, parties, and sporting events, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
5. Did Tom Jones ever comment on the Carlton Dance?
Yes, Tom Jones has embraced the Carlton Dance and even performed it alongside Alfonso Ribeiro on several occasions. He recognizes the dance’s connection to his song and its contribution to the song’s continued popularity.
6. Is there a “correct” way to do the Carlton Dance?
The beauty of the Carlton Dance is that there is no “correct” way to do it. The awkwardness and enthusiasm are what make it so endearing. As long as you’re having fun and embracing the spirit of the dance, you’re doing it right.
7. Did Carlton ever dance to hip-hop music?
While Carlton’s preferred music genre leaned towards pop and classic rock, he occasionally danced to hip-hop music, often in a comedic way that highlighted his unfamiliarity with the genre. These instances further emphasized the contrast between Carlton and Will’s cultures.
8. How did Will Smith react to the Carlton Dance?
Will Smith, both in character as Will and in real life, was often amused and slightly embarrassed by Carlton’s dance moves. This reaction contributed to the comedic dynamic between the two characters, highlighting their contrasting personalities.
9. What’s the most memorable episode featuring the Carlton Dance besides “It Had To Be You?”
While “It Had To Be You” is the origin, other episodes stand out. One notable example is “Someday Your Prince Will Be In Effect (Part 2)” (Season 1, Episode 24), where Carlton dances at a party, trying to impress a girl, further solidifying the dance’s significance.
10. Did Alfonso Ribeiro ever get tired of doing the Carlton Dance?
Alfonso Ribeiro has admitted that while he appreciates the dance’s popularity, he did become slightly tired of performing it repeatedly over the years. However, he also recognizes its importance to the show and its fans.
11. Is the Carlton Dance similar to any other famous dances?
As previously mentioned, the Carlton Dance draws inspiration from Courtney Cox’s dance in Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark” and Eddie Murphy’s “White Man Dance.” It also shares similarities with other awkward and enthusiastic dances seen in pop culture.
12. What is the enduring appeal of the Carlton Dance?
The enduring appeal lies in its universality and relatability. It’s a dance that anyone can do, regardless of their dancing ability. It’s also a celebration of individuality and self-expression, reminding us to embrace our quirks and not take ourselves too seriously. It captures the joy of letting loose and having fun, making it a timeless classic.
The Carlton Dance: More Than Just a Move
Ultimately, the Carlton Dance, originating most memorably in “It Had To Be You,” is more than just a collection of steps. It’s a symbol of Carlton Banks’ character, a testament to Alfonso Ribeiro’s comedic talent, and a cultural phenomenon that continues to bring joy to audiences worldwide. It represents the freedom to express oneself without inhibition, the joy of music, and the enduring power of a well-executed comedic moment. So, the next time you hear “It’s Not Unusual” or see someone bust out the Carlton Dance, remember the episode that started it all: Season 1, Episode 14, “It Had To Be You.” You’ll then understand that you’re witnessing more than just a dance – you’re witnessing a piece of television history.