Toni Basil: Beyond “Mickey”
If you think Toni Basil’s contributions to music are limited to her iconic cheerleader anthem “Mickey,” you’re only scratching the surface. By the time “Mickey” hit the US charts 43 years ago this week, in 1982, Basil had already spent four decades in the entertainment world. A closer look reveals a rich tapestry of experiences. From her appearance in Elvis Presley’s “Viva Las Vegas” to being part of Peter Fonda’s legendary “Easy Rider,” Antonio Basil’s journey is filled with unforgettable moments. She danced alongside renowned acts like David Bowie, Tina Turner, and Talking Heads long before her chart success.
A Life in Dance
In our two-hour chat, Basil, now 82, reminisces about her adventurous life with gusto. From attending Iggy Pop concerts to going to Bette Midler’s birthday bash, she maintains the youthful exuberance of her “Mickey” days. In her dance studio in Los Angeles, she looks vibrant and youthful, reflecting the energy that dance has provided her throughout her life. “Dance is my drug of choice,” Basil says. “It gives you a sense of community and a natural high.”
Early Career and Breakthrough
Basil credits her UK record label signing in 1979 for kickstarting her pop career with her album “Word of Mouth.” The album featured her innovative version of “Kitty,” which included a cheerleader chant that her label initially opposed. However, she went on to produce music videos, even before the era of MTV. This led to an invitation from BBC producers to create a two-part special, which eventually turned “Mickey” into a sensation that climbed the charts in multiple countries.
Showbiz Roots
Coming from a family of vaudevillian performers, Basil’s early life revolved around show business. She grew up watching legends like Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland perform regularly. Her supportive, indulgent upbringing fueled her passion for dance and performance, leading her to become a prominent dancer and choreographer during a culturally transformative era.
Influence and Counterculture
As the 1960s counterculture movement took shape, Basil found her footing and entered a vibrant artistic milieu, sharing connections with the likes of Dennis Hopper and Jack Nicholson. She appeared in groundbreaking films that defined the era, proving her versatility as an actress and dancer. Even when drugs were prevalent in these circles, Basil maintained a healthy distance, focusing instead on cultivating her craft.
Evolution of Dance
After the ’60s, Basil pivoted to new dance styles, venturing into street dance and connecting with influential figures in the Black dance scene. Collaborating with Don “Campbellock” Campbell, they created “The Lockers,” a troupe that helped redefine street dance as an art form. She later worked on major performances for stars like David Bowie and Tina Turner, illustrating her ability to adapt and collaborate across generations.
Legacy and Continued Influence
Though her pop stardom was brief, with follow-up singles failing to gain traction, Basil remains unbothered, seeing her career as a journey rather than a singular success. Today, she teaches dance and judges competitions globally, still connected to the cultural echoes of “Mickey,” which continues to resonate in contemporary music from artists like Run DMC and Gwen Stefani. “It’s an anthem now,” she reflects, demonstrating her lasting impact on both dance and popular culture.
