Iko Iko (my Bestie) Michael Chang Remix — - Justin Wellington Feat. Small Jam
This version leans into the "DJ Remix" and "Summer Hits" aesthetic, featuring a more pronounced electronic beat and faster tempo compared to the reggae-fusion original. The Story Behind "Iko Iko (My Bestie)"
The Wellington version—including the Michael Chang remix—features English lyrics that emphasize friendship and celebration: This version leans into the "DJ Remix" and
Michael Chang, known for his high-energy DJ edits often tailored for dance trends. He updated the lyrics to focus on "besties"
Justin Wellington, an artist from Papua New Guinea , released his version in 2017 with the Solomon Islands duo Small Jam . He updated the lyrics to focus on "besties" and dancing, turning a traditional "war" chant into a tropical party anthem. Notable Lyrics in this Version The song exploded
The remix surfaced during the song's peak viral period in mid-2021, frequently used in "Bestie" dance compilations on YouTube and TikTok.
The song's core chant dates back to James "Sugar Boy" Crawford's 1953 song "Jock-A-Mo" , which was about a confrontation between two tribes of Mardi Gras Indians in New Orleans. Notable Lyrics in this Version
The song exploded in 2021 through the #ikoikochallenge , a dance trend where pairs or groups perform synchronized moves to the "My bestie and your bestie" chorus.
