Last Updated on December 30, 2023 by admin
In the annals of internet history, few memes have achieved the iconic status of “Keyboard Cat.” This article delves into the captivating story behind this viral sensation, exploring how a simple video of a cat seemingly playing a keyboard spawned a global phenomenon, leaving an enduring mark on popular culture.
“Keyboard Cat” became a viral sensation on YouTube due to its clever combination of a cat playing a keyboard and the phrase “Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat.” The meme gained popularity as users created videos featuring the cat in various humorous situations, often using it to signal the end of a segment or to provide comedic relief. Its widespread appeal led to its ranking as No. 2 on Current TV’s list of 50 Greatest Viral Videos.
Key Takeaways:
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“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” originated as a suggestion on the internet to use a cat playing a keyboard to transition away from awkward moments during live broadcasts.
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The meme gained traction on YouTube, with numerous videos featuring the phrase “Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” or variations in their titles.
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The popularity of the meme led to “Keyboard Cat” being ranked No. 2 on Current TV’s list of 50 Greatest Viral Videos.
the Power of Simplicity: How Keyboard Cat’s Minimalist Approach Resonated
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat”: The Minimalist Masterpiece That Took the Internet by Storm
In the vast expanse of the internet, where countless videos vie for attention, one feline virtuoso stands tall: Keyboard Cat. This iconic meme, featuring a cat named Fatso seemingly playing a musical keyboard, captured the hearts of millions with its minimalist charm and infectious melody. Its rise to viral stardom is a testament to the power of simplicity and the enduring appeal of a well-executed concept.
The Keyboard Cat phenomenon began in 1984 when Charlie Schmidt, Fatso’s owner, recorded a video of his cat playing a toy piano. The video remained largely unknown until 2007 when Schmidt uploaded it to YouTube. It wasn’t until 2009, however, that Keyboard Cat truly took off. Brad O’Farrell, a video editor, appended the Keyboard Cat video to the end of a blooper video, creating an instant sensation.
The video’s popularity skyrocketed, spreading like wildfire across the internet. It caught the attention of brands, celebrities, and news outlets alike, becoming a cultural phenomenon. The phrase “Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” became synonymous with the video, signaling the end of a segment or providing comedic relief. Keyboard Cat’s minimalist approach, featuring a simple cat playing a simple tune, resonated with audiences worldwide.
The meme’s success can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, its simplicity made it instantly accessible and relatable. The video’s lack of complex visuals or intricate storylines allowed viewers to connect with it on a fundamental level. Secondly, the catchy melody and Fatso’s adorable antics created an emotional connection with viewers, evoking feelings of joy and amusement.
Furthermore, the video’s timing played a crucial role in its virality. In 2009, the concept of something “going viral” was still relatively new, and Keyboard Cat was one of the first videos to truly capture the public’s imagination in this way. Its sudden and widespread popularity helped establish the phenomenon of viral videos and paved the way for countless others to follow.
The sudden surge in popularity overwhelmed Charlie Schmidt, who had never intended for the video to become a global sensation. He struggled to cope with the overwhelming attention and eventually decided to withdraw from the public eye. Despite his absence, Keyboard Cat’s legacy lives on, serving as a reminder of the power of simplicity and the enduring appeal of a well-executed concept.
the Enduring Appeal: Why Keyboard Cat Continues to Entertain Audiences
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” – The Enduring Appeal of a Viral Sensation
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” is a phrase that has become synonymous with the viral video of a cat named Fatso seemingly playing a musical keyboard. The video, originally made in 1984 by Charlie Schmidt, was uploaded to YouTube in 2007 and quickly gained popularity in 2009 when Brad O’Farrell appended it to the end of a blooper video. The video went viral, capturing the attention of brands, celebrities, and news outlets worldwide.
The concept of something “going viral” was still relatively new at the time, and Charlie Schmidt was overwhelmed by the sudden popularity of Keyboard Cat. The video became a worldwide hit, with people all over the world watching videos of the cat playing the keyboard. Users created humorous videos featuring the cat, often using it to signal the end of a segment or to provide comedic relief.
Keyboard Cat’s popularity can be attributed to several factors. The video is clever and funny, and the cat’s apparent ability to play the keyboard is impressive. The phrase “Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” is also catchy and memorable. Additionally, the video was released at a time when the internet was becoming more accessible to people around the world, making it easier for the video to spread.
Keyboard Cat has had a lasting impact on popular culture. The video has been parodied and referenced in numerous television shows, movies, and commercials. The cat has also been featured on merchandise such as t-shirts, mugs, and plush toys. In 2012, Keyboard Cat was even inducted into the Internet Hall of Fame.
Today, Keyboard Cat remains a popular internet meme. The video continues to be watched and shared by people all over the world. The cat’s enduring appeal is a testament to the power of the internet to bring people together and create shared experiences.
Lessons in Viral Success: Analyzing Keyboard Cat’s Popularity
Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat: Why It Went Viral
In the realm of viral sensations, few have achieved the iconic status of Keyboard Cat, the feline maestro who captivated the internet with his rhythmic keyboard skills and the catchphrase “Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat.” This article delves into the fascinating story behind Keyboard Cat’s meteoric rise to fame, exploring the factors that propelled this unlikely star into the annals of viral history.
The Genesis of a Viral Phenomenon
The Keyboard Cat phenomenon originated in 1984 when Charlie Schmidt, the cat’s owner, captured footage of his beloved pet, Fatso, playfully pawing at a toy piano. Little did Schmidt know that this seemingly innocuous moment would later ignite a global sensation.
The Power of Social Media
In 2007, Schmidt uploaded the Keyboard Cat video to YouTube, setting the stage for its viral explosion. The video quickly gained traction on social media platforms, particularly Twitter and YouTube, where it was shared and viewed by millions of users. The catchy tune, humorous visuals, and perfect timing of the phrase “Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” resonated with audiences, making the video highly shareable.
Celebrities and News Outlets Take Notice
As Keyboard Cat’s popularity soared, celebrities and news outlets began to take notice. From talk show hosts to news anchors, everyone seemed to be talking about the feline virtuoso. This mainstream attention further fueled the video’s viral spread, propelling it to even greater heights of fame.
The Novelty of “Going Viral”
At the time of Keyboard Cat’s viral ascent, the concept of “going viral” was relatively new and poorly understood. This novelty added to the video’s appeal, as people were eager to experience and share this emerging phenomenon.
Brands Capitalize on Keyboard Cat’s Popularity
Recognizing the marketing potential of Keyboard Cat, brands quickly jumped on the bandwagon, incorporating the feline sensation into their campaigns. From T-shirts and plush toys to video game cameos, Keyboard Cat’s likeness became ubiquitous, further solidifying its status as a cultural icon.
Keyboard Cat’s viral success serves as a testament to the power of the internet and the unpredictable nature of viral phenomena. The video’s clever combination of humor, music, and perfect timing struck a chord with audiences worldwide, propelling Keyboard Cat to stardom and cementing its place in internet history.
What Happened to Fatso the Keyboard Cat?
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” went viral because of a hilarious video featuring a cat playing a keyboard, captivating audiences with its unique and entertaining content. The phrase “Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” became synonymous with the video, signaling the end of a segment or providing comedic relief.
The video’s popularity skyrocketed after being appended to a blooper video in 2009, propelling Keyboard Cat to internet fame. Brands, celebrities, and news outlets took notice, further amplifying its viral reach. The concept of “going viral” was relatively new at the time, adding to the novelty and appeal of Keyboard Cat.
Keyboard Cat’s catchy tune and humorous visuals resonated with audiences, making it widely shareable. The video’s simple yet effective format allowed for easy adaptation and remixing, contributing to its viral spread. Social media platforms like Twitter and YouTube played a crucial role in its popularity, enabling users to share and discover the video with ease.
The identity of Keyboard Cat, originally known as Fatso, added an emotional layer to its viral success. The revelation that Fatso had actually died over 20 years before the videos went viral evoked a sense of nostalgia and endearment among viewers. The cat’s posthumous fame served as a tribute to its unique talent and the enduring power of online content.
Did Keyboard Cat Pass Away?
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” became a viral sensation due to its humorous and relatable content. The video features a cat named Fatso playing a keyboard, and the phrase “Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” is often used to signal the end of a segment or provide comedic relief.
The video gained popularity after being appended to a blooper video in 2009. From there, it spread like wildfire across social media platforms such as Twitter and YouTube. The catchy tune and humorous visuals resonated with audiences, making it widely shareable.
Brands quickly recognized the marketing potential of Keyboard Cat and incorporated it into their campaigns. The cat’s popularity even caught the attention of celebrities and news outlets, making it a worldwide hit.
While Keyboard Cat’s rise to fame was meteoric, it’s important to note that the cat, Fatso, had actually died over 20 years before the videos went viral. This fact adds a bittersweet element to the story, as it highlights the enduring power of the internet to bring joy and laughter to people even after the physical presence of the beloved cat is gone.
The concept of “going viral” was relatively new at the time of Keyboard Cat’s popularity, adding to the novelty and appeal of the video. Today, viral videos are commonplace, but Keyboard Cat remains an iconic example of how a simple video can capture the attention of the world and bring people together through shared laughter.
Keyboard Cat’s Viral Rise: Tracing the Journey of a Phenomenon
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat”: Tracing the Meteoric Rise of an Internet Phenomenon
In the annals of viral internet memes, few have achieved the iconic status of Keyboard Cat, a video that took the world by storm in 2009. Featuring a cat named Fatso seemingly playing a musical keyboard, the video’s catchy tune and humorous visuals struck a chord with audiences, catapulting it to viral fame. But what exactly led to Keyboard Cat’s meteoric rise?
The original video, created in 1984 by Charlie Schmidt, initially gained traction in 2007 when it was featured on the website I Can Has Cheezburger? However, it wasn’t until 2009, when Brad O’Farrell appended the video to the end of a blooper video, that Keyboard Cat truly went viral. The video quickly spread across the internet, garnering millions of views and capturing the attention of brands, celebrities, and news outlets alike.
The timing of Keyboard Cat’s viral spread played a significant role in its success. In 2009, the concept of something “going viral” was relatively new, and the internet was still a relatively untapped frontier for marketing and entertainment. Keyboard Cat’s unique and humorous content resonated with audiences, who eagerly shared the video with their friends and followers.
The video’s catchy tune and humorous visuals also contributed to its viral success. The simple yet memorable melody and the comical sight of a cat playing a keyboard proved irresistible to viewers, who couldn’t help but share the video with others. The video’s short length and easy-to-understand concept also made it highly shareable, allowing it to spread rapidly across various platforms.
Once Keyboard Cat went viral, it quickly became a global phenomenon. Brands recognized the marketing potential of the video and incorporated it into their campaigns, while celebrities and news outlets featured it in their content. The video’s popularity even led to the creation of merchandise, including plush toys, t-shirts, and coffee mugs.
Keyboard Cat’s viral success is a testament to the power of the internet to propel ordinary content to extraordinary heights. The video’s unique and humorous content, combined with the timing of its release and the ease with which it could be shared, created a perfect storm that propelled Keyboard Cat to viral stardom.
Keyboard Cat’s Influence on Internet Humor: A New Era of Memes
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat”: The Viral Sensation That Revolutionized Internet Humor
The internet meme “Keyboard Cat” took the world by storm in 2009, leaving many wondering, “Why did it go viral?” This article delves into the fascinating story behind Keyboard Cat’s meteoric rise to fame and its profound impact on internet humor.
The original video, created in 1984 by Charlie Schmidt, featured his cat Fatso seemingly playing a musical keyboard. While the video initially gained some traction, it wasn’t until 2009, when Brad O’Farrell appended it to the end of a blooper video, that Keyboard Cat truly went viral.
The video’s catchy tune and humorous visuals resonated with audiences, making it widely shareable. The concept of “going viral” was relatively new at the time, adding to the novelty and appeal of Keyboard Cat.
Keyboard Cat quickly became a global phenomenon, receiving attention from brands, celebrities, and news outlets. Its popularity skyrocketed through social media platforms, with people creating parodies, remixes, and countless references to the iconic cat.
The success of Keyboard Cat marked a significant shift in internet humor. It paved the way for a new era of memes, characterized by their ability to spread rapidly and capture the collective imagination of online communities.
Today, Keyboard Cat remains an enduring symbol of internet culture, continuing to inspire joy and humor worldwide. Its legacy lies in its ability to transcend language and cultural barriers, uniting people through shared laughter and appreciation for the absurd.
Behind the Scenes: The Story of Fatso, the Cat Behind the Keyboard
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat” – The Story Behind the Viral Sensation
In the annals of internet history, few memes have achieved the iconic status of Keyboard Cat. This orange tabby cat, also known as Fatso, became an overnight sensation in 2009, captivating audiences with his seemingly proficient keyboard skills. But what led to Keyboard Cat’s viral fame, and how did he become one of the first true internet superstars?
The story of Keyboard Cat begins in the mid-1980s when his owner, Charlie Schmidt, filmed the feline wearing a shirt and seemingly playing an electric keyboard. The video, initially shared on VHS tapes, gained little attention until it was uploaded to YouTube in 2007. It was then that Keyboard Cat’s popularity skyrocketed, quickly becoming one of the platform’s first viral videos.
The video’s success can be attributed to several factors. The catchy tune, coupled with Fatso’s humorous and seemingly skillful performance, resonated with audiences worldwide. The concept of “going viral” was relatively new at the time, adding to the novelty and appeal of Keyboard Cat.
Brad O’Farrell played a significant role in Keyboard Cat’s rise to fame when he appended the video to a blooper compilation in 2009. This move garnered widespread attention, propelling Keyboard Cat into the limelight. Soon, the video was being shared across social media platforms, featured in news outlets, and even parodied by celebrities.
The viral success of Keyboard Cat opened doors for commercial opportunities. Brands recognized the marketing potential of the meme and incorporated it into their campaigns. Fatso, the cat behind Keyboard Cat, became a sought-after celebrity, making media appearances and even releasing merchandise.
Keyboard Cat’s legacy extends beyond its initial viral moment. The meme has become a timeless symbol of internet culture, often referenced and parodied in popular media. It has also inspired countless cat-related memes, solidifying its place as a true pioneer in the world of online entertainment.
The story of Keyboard Cat is a testament to the transformative power of the internet. A simple video of a cat playing a keyboard captured the hearts of millions, leaving an enduring mark on internet history. Keyboard Cat’s viral journey serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of online fame and the enduring appeal of humorous and relatable content.
Is Keyboard Cat Fake?
Why did Keyboard Cat go viral? The answer lies in its unique blend of humor, creativity, and relatability. When Brad O’Farrell appended the video of Fatso, the orange tabby cat, playing a musical keyboard, to the end of a blooper video in 2009, he inadvertently created a sensation. The video quickly went viral, propelling Keyboard Cat to internet meme stardom.
The video’s success can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the catchy tune and humorous visuals made it highly shareable. The image of a cat playing a keyboard, combined with the upbeat music, resonated with audiences worldwide. Secondly, the concept of “going viral” was relatively new at the time, adding to the novelty and appeal of the video.
Furthermore, brands and celebrities quickly recognized the marketing potential of Keyboard Cat. They incorporated the meme into their campaigns, further boosting its popularity. The result was a global phenomenon that spread joy and humor online.
Unveiling the Origins: How Keyboard Cat Captivated the Internet
Unveiling the Origins: How Keyboard Cat Captivated the Internet
“Play him off, Keyboard Cat!” This iconic phrase, uttered by Brad O’Farrell in a 2009 blooper video, catapulted Keyboard Cat to viral stardom. But what exactly is Keyboard Cat, and why did it become such a sensation? Let’s delve into the origins of this internet phenomenon and explore the reasons behind its enduring popularity.
Keyboard Cat, a video-based internet meme, features an orange tabby cat named Fatso seemingly playing a musical keyboard. The original video was created in 1984 by Charlie Schmidt, Fatso’s owner. Schmidt uploaded the video to YouTube in 2007, but it wasn’t until O’Farrell’s clever addition that Keyboard Cat went viral.
The video’s popularity can be attributed to several factors. The catchy tune, played by Fatso’s paws, is irresistibly upbeat and memorable. The humorous visuals of a cat playing a keyboard add to the video’s charm. The video’s short length and easy shareability also contributed to its rapid spread across the internet.
Keyboard Cat quickly gained attention from brands, celebrities, and news outlets worldwide. Its popularity skyrocketed, making it a global sensation. The video’s success even led to Fatso, the real Keyboard Cat, making appearances on television shows and in commercials.
The enduring appeal of Keyboard Cat lies in its ability to evoke joy and laughter. Its simple yet entertaining nature has made it a timeless classic, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re a fan of cats, music, or simply clever internet memes, Keyboard Cat is sure to put a smile on your face.
So, next time you hear someone say, “Play him off, Keyboard Cat,” remember the captivating journey that brought this internet icon into our lives. From its humble beginnings in 1984 to its viral explosion in 2009, Keyboard Cat has left an indelible mark on the internet, proving that sometimes, the simplest things can bring the greatest joy.
Adaptability and Remixability: Keyboard Cat’s Versatility in Online Culture
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat”: The Viral Journey of an Internet Sensation
In the vast realm of internet memes, Keyboard Cat stands tall as a shining example of adaptability and remixability. This iconic video, featuring an orange tabby cat named Fatso seemingly playing a musical keyboard, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions worldwide. Its meteoric rise to viral fame serves as a testament to the power of creativity, humor, and the internet’s interconnectedness.
The Keyboard Cat phenomenon began in 1984 when Charlie Schmidt, Fatso’s owner, created the original video. However, it wasn’t until 2007 when Schmidt uploaded the video to YouTube that it gained traction. The video’s popularity skyrocketed in 2009 when Brad O’Farrell appended it to the end of a blooper video, propelling it into the viral stratosphere.
The Keyboard Cat video resonated with audiences for several reasons. Its catchy tune, humorous visuals, and sheer absurdity made it widely shareable. The video’s versatility also contributed to its success. It could be easily adapted to fit various contexts, from humorous skits to political commentary.
Brands quickly recognized the marketing potential of Keyboard Cat. Companies such as Toyota, Pepsi, and Skittles incorporated the meme into their advertising campaigns, further propelling its popularity. Keyboard Cat even made appearances on television shows and in music videos, solidifying its status as a cultural icon.
The Keyboard Cat phenomenon highlights the adaptability and remixability of internet memes. These digital artifacts can be easily shared, modified, and repurposed to fit different contexts, allowing them to spread rapidly across the internet. Keyboard Cat’s success also demonstrates the power of humor and creativity in capturing the public’s attention.
As the internet continues to evolve, Keyboard Cat remains a reminder of the enduring power of viral memes. Its legacy as an adaptable and remixable internet sensation continues to inspire new generations of creators and internet users alike.
When Did Keyboard Cat Go Viral?
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat!” – The Journey to Viral Stardom
In the annals of internet history, few memes have achieved the iconic status of Keyboard Cat. Created in 1984 by Charlie Schmidt, the video features his orange tabby cat, Fatso, playing a musical keyboard. While the original video gained some attention, it was in 2009 that Keyboard Cat truly went viral, becoming a worldwide sensation.
The catalyst for Keyboard Cat’s viral success was Brad O’Farrell, who, with Schmidt’s permission, appended the video to the end of a blooper video. This simple act set off a chain reaction, propelling Keyboard Cat into the limelight.
The video’s popularity can be attributed to several factors. Its catchy tune and humorous visuals made it widely shareable, resonating with audiences worldwide. Brands quickly recognized the marketing potential of Keyboard Cat, incorporating it into their campaigns. Celebrities and news outlets also jumped on the bandwagon, further amplifying its reach.
As Keyboard Cat’s fame soared, Schmidt, the video’s creator, found himself overwhelmed by the sudden popularity. He had never anticipated the video’s massive success and struggled to cope with the newfound attention.
Despite the initial challenges, Keyboard Cat’s legacy continues to live on. It remains a beloved meme, fondly remembered for its humor and charm. The video’s enduring popularity is a testament to the power of the internet to propel ordinary moments into cultural phenomena.
Cultural Impact and Legacy: Keyboard Cat’s Enduring Presence in Pop Culture
Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat: The Viral Legacy of an Internet Icon
In the annals of internet history, few memes have achieved the enduring popularity and cultural impact of Keyboard Cat. The video, featuring an orange tabby cat named Fatso seemingly playing a musical keyboard, has captivated audiences worldwide since its viral explosion in 2009. This article delves into the factors that catapulted Keyboard Cat to viral stardom and explores its lasting presence in pop culture.
The Genesis of a Viral Sensation
The Keyboard Cat phenomenon traces its roots back to 1984 when Charlie Schmidt, Fatso’s owner, captured the now-iconic footage of his cat’s musical antics. The video remained largely unknown until 2007 when Schmidt uploaded it to YouTube. However, it wasn’t until 2009 that Keyboard Cat truly took off. Brad O’Farrell, with Schmidt’s permission, appended the Keyboard Cat video to the end of a blooper video, setting the stage for its meteoric rise to viral fame.
The Perfect Storm of Viral Ingredients
Several elements converged to create the perfect storm that propelled Keyboard Cat to viral stardom. The video’s catchy tune, humorous visuals, and sheer novelty resonated with audiences, making it highly shareable. The concept of something “going viral” was still relatively new at the time, adding to the intrigue surrounding Keyboard Cat.
Mainstream Recognition and Cultural Impact
Keyboard Cat’s popularity quickly transcended the internet, capturing the attention of brands, celebrities, and news outlets. The video became a ubiquitous presence in popular culture, appearing in TV shows, movies, and even commercials. Its catchy tune and recognizable visuals made it an ideal marketing tool, with brands eager to capitalize on its widespread appeal.
The Enduring Legacy of Keyboard Cat
More than a decade after its initial viral explosion, Keyboard Cat continues to hold a special place in pop culture. Its enduring legacy is a testament to the power of the internet to elevate seemingly mundane moments into global phenomena. Keyboard Cat’s success story serves as a reminder that creativity, humor, and the right platform can propel ordinary content to extraordinary heights.
the Melody That Struck a Chord: Exploring the Music Behind Keyboard Cat
“Play Him Off, Keyboard Cat”: The Melody That Struck a Chord
In the annals of internet history, few memes have achieved the enduring popularity and widespread appeal of Keyboard Cat. This viral sensation, featuring an orange tabby cat named Fatso seemingly playing a musical keyboard, captured the hearts of millions and became a ubiquitous symbol of online humor. But what was it about this seemingly simple video that propelled it to such dizzying heights of virality?
The original video, created in 1984 by Charlie Schmidt, was a charming and lighthearted depiction of Fatso’s musical prowess. However, it wasn’t until 2009, when Brad O’Farrell appended the clip to the end of a blooper video, that Keyboard Cat truly took off. The catchy tune, humorous visuals, and sheer novelty of the concept struck a chord with audiences worldwide, propelling it to viral stardom.
The meteoric rise of Keyboard Cat can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the video’s simplicity and accessibility made it easy to share and enjoy. The catchy melody and humorous visuals were universally appealing, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. Secondly, the video’s release coincided with the burgeoning popularity of social media platforms such as YouTube and Facebook, providing a perfect conduit for its rapid spread.
The cultural impact of Keyboard Cat cannot be overstated. The meme has been parodied, remixed, and referenced countless times in popular culture, becoming a ubiquitous symbol of online humor. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of simple, yet clever and entertaining content to capture the public’s imagination.
So, what can we learn from the viral success of Keyboard Cat? Firstly, simplicity and accessibility are key. Content that is easy to understand and enjoy has a greater chance of resonating with audiences. Secondly, timing is everything. Releasing content at the right moment, when it can capitalize on emerging trends or cultural shifts, can significantly boost its chances of going viral. Finally, the power of humor should never be underestimated. Content that makes people laugh or smile is more likely to be shared and enjoyed.