2024 marks the 20th anniversary of Eric Prydz's iconic track, "Call on Me," a record that has made a significant impact on the dance music landscape since its release in 2004. Drawing inspiration from Steve Winwood's classic 1982 hit "Valerie," the infectious melody combined with catchy beats has made a lasting impression on listeners and dancers alike.
The accompanying music video, directed by Huse Monfaradi, features a vibrant aerobics class with dancers dressed in nostalgic 1980s-inspired outfits, led by Deanne Berry. The suggestive choreography, paired with the colorful visuals, has become emblematic of the early 2000s dance scene. Shot at the Laban Dance Centre in London, the video has drawn comparisons to the 1985 film "Perfect," which starred John Travolta and Jamie Lee Curtis.
Despite its widespread popularity, the video received mixed critical acclaim. NME included it among their list of the 50 Worst Music Videos Ever, while Vice Media dubbed it the "Sexiest Music Video of All Time." On the commercial front, "Call on Me" topped the UK Singles Chart during a period of declining CD single sales, setting a historic record for the fewest sales required to reach the number one position. In total, the track sold over 335,000 copies in the UK, making it one of the biggest-selling singles of 2004.
Internationally, the song achieved number-one positions in Germany and Ireland, and reached number two in Australia. In response to the success of the video, Ministry of Sound released a feature-length DVD titled "Pump It Up: The Ultimate Dance Workout," showcasing the aerobics routines. Additionally, at the time, the music video became the highest-downloaded music video in Australia, further entrenching its legacy in dance music history.
Eric Prydz's "Call on Me" remains a defining anthem of its era, exemplifying the innovative spirit that characterized the early days of dance music while highlighting the lasting impact of its distinctive visual and musical elements.