
What Does the Fox Say? is a song by Norwegian comedy duo Ylvis. The song was released in 2013 and became a viral hit, with many people wondering what the fox truly says. In reality, foxes can make a variety of sounds, including a raspy bark and a high-pitched howl that resembles a scream.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Song Title | What Does the Fox Say? |
| Artist | Ylvis |
| Genre | EDM, Novelty, Comedy |
| Fox Sounds | Raspy bark, High-pitched howl, Scream, Dog-like, Owl-like |
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What You'll Learn

The fox's real sound
Foxes can make a variety of sounds, and contrary to what you might expect from their size, they can be quite loud. One of the most common fox vocalizations is a raspy bark, and they also make a high-pitched howl that can sound like a scream. Foxes are part of the dog family, so their sounds can be similar to those of dogs or even owls. They can also howl like dogs.
Foxes have excellent hearing and can hear higher-pitched sounds than humans. They use a range of vocalizations to communicate with each other, including barks, screams, and a sound known as "gekkering," which is a contact call made by vixens, or female foxes, when they are looking for a mate. This sound is often described as a short, sharp laugh. Foxes also make a variety of quieter sounds, such as whines, whimpers, and growls, which are used for communication between parents and kits, or cubs.
Foxes also communicate through body language, and their vocalizations are often accompanied by specific postures and movements. For example, a fox may bark and raise its hackles, or the fur on its back, when it feels threatened. They also use scent marking to communicate with other foxes, leaving urine and feces to mark their territory.
While foxes are typically associated with rural areas, they have adapted well to urban environments and can often be heard at night in cities and towns. Their vocalizations can carry long distances, and they are most active at dusk and dawn, making these peak times to listen out for fox sounds.
In popular culture, the sound of foxes has been the subject of curiosity and humor, with the song "What Does the Fox Say?" by Ylvis becoming a viral hit in 2013. While the song comically explores the various sounds a fox might make, the actual sounds of foxes are equally diverse and fascinating.
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The song's popularity
"What Does the Fox Say?" is a song by the comedy duo Ylvis that gained immense popularity upon its release. The song, which is an EDM and novelty (comedy) track, sparked widespread curiosity and became a viral sensation, particularly with its catchy and intriguing question "What does the fox say?"
Secondly, the song's unique and humorous lyrics played a pivotal role in its popularity. The repetitive question "What does the fox say?" is simple yet effective in engaging listeners and leaving a lasting impression. The song's exploration of the various sounds a fox might make, from "wa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa" to "HATI HATI HATI HA," added to its whimsical nature and made it memorable.
Additionally, the song's release in 2013 coincided with a period of heightened interest in viral videos and novelty songs. "What Does the Fox Say?" tapped into this cultural moment and resonated with audiences seeking lighthearted and entertaining content. The song's ability to blend humour with catchy EDM beats struck a chord with listeners, making it a favourite across age groups.
The impact of "What Does the Fox Say?" extended beyond its initial popularity. It inspired numerous parodies, covers, and remixes, with some listeners even creating their own versions without the vocals. This engagement demonstrates the song's lasting influence and its ability to encourage creativity and participation from its audience. The song's ringtone was also made available, allowing fans to further embrace the song's playful nature.
Overall, "What Does the Fox Say?" by Ylvis became a cultural phenomenon, capturing the imagination of listeners worldwide. Its success showcases the power of combining humour, catchy melodies, and unique themes to create a lasting impact in the music industry and popular culture.
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The song's genre
"What Does the Fox Say?" is a song by the comedy duo Ylvis, released in 2013. The song is a novelty EDM song, with a catchy and humorous tone. It gained popularity and became a viral hit, with many people discussing and analyzing the song years after its release.
The song's lyrics center around the sounds that foxes make, presenting a range of imaginative and playful vocalizations. While the song is not meant to be a serious scientific exploration of fox sounds, it does draw attention to the varied vocal capabilities of foxes. In reality, foxes can produce a diverse range of sounds, including raspy barks and high-pitched howls that resemble screams. They can also make sounds similar to those made by dogs or owls.
The song's instrumentation, when isolated from the vocals, has been described as a typical EDM track with a progressive house style. The song's drop at 2:22, in particular, has been praised for its effectiveness. The instrumental version of the song offers a different perspective and showcases the production value of the track.
"What Does the Fox Say?" has left a memorable impact on listeners, with some commenting that it changed their perspective on the song when heard without the vocals. The song's popularity has led to the creation of ringtones, further spreading its reach beyond just the song itself. The track has also been referenced in other media, such as the video game Fortnite, demonstrating its cultural influence.
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The song without vocals
The song "What Does the Fox Say?" by Ylvis is a popular EDM and novelty (comedy) song. The song gained popularity, making it a "pop" song, despite not being categorised as one. Interestingly, the song is perceived differently when listened to without vocals. The song's instrumentals, when isolated, are described as a typical EDM composition. The drop after the buildup at 2:22, in particular, is highlighted as an amazing element of the song.
The song's lyrics are centred around the sounds a fox may make, which can vary. Foxes are known to make a range of vocalisations, from raspy barks to high-pitched howls that resemble screams. They can also sound like dogs or owls and can howl like a dog.
The song "What Does the Fox Say?" has sparked curiosity about the actual sounds made by foxes. Some people have even shared their experiences with foxes in their backyards, describing them as "always yelling." The song has also inspired creative interpretations of fox sounds, as seen in the comments section of the song's online platforms.
The song has become a cultural phenomenon, with references in various online discussions and platforms. It has its own ringtone available for download, and the official music video can be found on YouTube. The song has also been referenced in games like Fortnite and the Star Fox series.
In conclusion, the song "What Does the Fox Say?" by Ylvis has had a significant impact, even when listened to without vocals. It has sparked curiosity about fox sounds, inspired creative interpretations, and become a part of popular culture. The song's instrumentals showcase its EDM roots, and its unique elements, like the drop at 2:22, contribute to its overall appeal.
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The music video
As the song progresses, the brothers are seen interacting with the fox characters, who showcase a range of expressions and movements. The video includes scenes of the duo standing in a forest, surrounded by the dancing foxes, as well as shots of them performing in front of a colourful backdrop. The choreography is energetic and often humorous, with the foxes jumping, spinning, and performing synchronised moves.
The video also incorporates special effects, such as animated foxes running across the screen or appearing alongside the singers. These animated foxes showcase different colours and designs, adding a fantasy-like element to the visuals. The combination of the catchy melody, humorous lyrics, and entertaining visuals contributed to the popularity of the song and its widespread appeal.
Overall, the music video for "What Does the Fox Say?" effectively combines humour, catchy music, and imaginative visuals to create a unique and memorable viewing experience. The song's exploration of fox sounds, through both lyrics and sound effects, adds to the whimsical nature of the video, making it a fun and entertaining creation that has left a lasting impression on audiences.
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Frequently asked questions
Foxes can make a variety of sounds, including a raspy bark and a high-pitched howl.
Yes, there is a song called "The Fox (What Does the Fox Say?)" by Ylvis.
The song is primarily an EDM song with comedy elements.
You can listen to the song on YouTube and SoundCloud.









































