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Move Ya Body
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| "Move Ya Body" | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single by Nina Sky featuring Jabba | ||||
| from the album Nina Sky | ||||
| B-side | "In a Dream" | |||
| Released | April 12, 2004 | |||
| Recorded | 2003 | |||
| Studio | The Hit Factory (New York City) | |||
| Genre | ||||
| Length | 3:52 | |||
| Label | ||||
| Songwriters |
| |||
| Producers |
| |||
| Nina Sky singles chronology | ||||
| ||||
| Music video | ||||
| "Nina Sky - Move Ya Body (Official Music Video) ft. Jabba" on YouTube | ||||
"Move Ya Body" is a song by Puerto Rican musical duo Nina Sky. It was released on April 12, 2004, as the lead single from its self-titled debut album (2004). The song features guest vocals by American-Jamaican DJ Jabba. The song became the duo's only solo single to reach the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100. The song was ranked at number 250 on Blender's "500 Greatest Songs Since You Were Born" and is well known for the use of the recurring ostinato on the bongos known as the "Coolie Dance" riddim. This has been the subject and musical motif of many musical samples.[3]
Background
[edit]Record producer the Jettsonz introduced Nina Sky to Cipha Sounds, a hip hop DJ. Cipha Sounds was impressed when he heard the girls sing and suggested that they compose a song using the "Coolie Dance" riddim. The twins wrote "Move Ya Body" in response, and recorded a demo. The demo got them signed as Nina Sky to Next Plateau Entertainment and Universal Records. After writing "Move Ya Body", Nina Sky quickly wrote more songs to form their debut album Nina Sky, released in June 2004.[4]
Composition
[edit]"Move Ya Body" has a length of three minutes and fifty-four seconds and was written by Nicole Albino, Natalie Albino, Cordel Burrell, Luis Diaz, Paul George, Curtis Bedeau, Gerald Charles, Brian George, Elijah Wells and Lionel Bermingham while it was produced by Wells and Bermingham. It was recorded in 2003 in The Hit Factory studios, located in New York City. The song contains lyrics from Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam's song, "Can You Feel the Beat". The title of Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam's song was repeated many times during the song.
Critical reception
[edit]Commercial performance
[edit]The song was a huge hit and is one of only a few singles by the duo to chart (the others include "Turnin' Me On" and "Curtain Call"). "Move Ya Body" is their biggest hit, as it charted at number four on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 22 on the 2004 Billboard Year-End Chart. It also reached number six on the UK Singles Chart. It was certified gold by both the RIAA and the BPI, and platinum by RMNZ.[6][7][8] It also reached the top ten in Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, New Zealand and the US Billboard Mainstream and Rhythmic Top 40 charts. The song earned the duo two nominations for International Dance Music Awards (Best Pop Dance Track and Best New Dance Artist (Group)) and one nomination for Soul Train Lady of Soul Award (Best R&B/Soul Single, Group, Band or Duo), all in 2005. They won one award for the song, Rapgra Award (Utwor R'n'B) in 2004.
Music video
[edit]An accompanying music video for the song was released in 2004. Posted in 2012, it was viewed over two million times on YouTube. However it was never posted on Nina Sky's official channel and it became unavailable few years later. The video was 34 seconds shorter than the song. It features guest appearances from Jabba, Fat Joe, Cipha Sounds and Angie Martinez. The whole video takes place in a nightclub and features the twins, mostly singing and dancing to the song.
Awards and nominations
[edit]| Year | Award | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Rapgra Awards | Utwor R'n'B | Won |
| 2005 | International Dance Music Awards | Best Pop Dance Track | Nominated |
| Best New Dance Artist (Group) | Nominated | ||
| Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards | Best R&B/Soul Single, Group, Band or Duo | Nominated |
Track listings
[edit]
|
|
Charts
[edit]
Weekly charts[edit]
|
Year-end charts[edit]
|
Certifications
[edit]| Region | Certification | Certified units/sales |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand (RMNZ)[8] | Platinum | 30,000‡ |
| United Kingdom (BPI)[7] | Gold | 400,000‡ |
| United States (RIAA)[6] | Gold | 500,000* |
|
* Sales figures based on certification alone. | ||
Release history
[edit]| Region | Date | Format(s) | Label(s) | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | April 12, 2004 |
|
[57] | |
| May 10, 2004 | Contemporary hit radio | [58] | ||
| United Kingdom | July 5, 2004 |
|
[59] |
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ Billboard Staff (October 19, 2023). "The 500 Best Pop Songs: Staff List". Billboard. Retrieved February 10, 2024.
The beguiling dancehall breakout hit for identical twins Nicole and Natalie Albino...
- ^ a b Breihan, Tom (March 19, 2021). "The Number Ones: Lisa Lisa And Cult Jam's "Lost In Emotion". Stereogum. Retrieved November 7, 2023.
...in 2004, the Queens duo Nina Sky interpolated "Can You Feel The Beat" on "Move Ya Body," a monster freestyle/dancehall hybrid.
- ^ "The 500 Greatest Songs Since You Were Born - Blender". December 28, 2010. Archived from the original on December 28, 2010.
- ^ "Nina Sky | Biography & History". AllMusic.
- ^ "Top 50 Singles of 2004 | Pitchfork". pitchfork.com. December 30, 2004. Retrieved December 28, 2017.
- ^ a b "American single certifications – Nina Sky – Move Ya Body". Recording Industry Association of America.
- ^ a b "British single certifications – Nina Sky – Move Ya Body". British Phonographic Industry. Retrieved February 12, 2025.
- ^ a b "New Zealand single certifications – Nina Sky – Move Ya Body". Radioscope. Retrieved February 12, 2025. Type Move Ya Body in the "Search:" field and press Enter.
- ^ Move Ya Body (US maxi-CD single liner notes). Universal Records, Next Plateau Entertainment. 2004. B0002570-32.
- ^ Move Ya Body (US 12-inch single vinyl disc). Universal Records, Next Plateau Entertainment. 2004. B0002570-11.
- ^ Move Ya Body (UK CD single disc notes). Universal Records, Next Plateau Entertainment. 2004. MCSTD 40373, 986 268-1.
- ^ Move Ya Body (Australian CD single liner notes). Universal Records, Next Plateau Entertainment. 2004. 9862681.
- ^ Move Ya Body (UK 12-inch single vinyl disc). Universal Records, Next Plateau Entertainment. 2004. MCST 40373, 986 296-4.
- ^ Move Ya Body (European CD single liner notes). Universal Records, Next Plateau Entertainment. 2004. 0602498626825.
- ^ Move Ya Body (European maxi-CD single liner notes). Universal Records, Next Plateau Entertainment. 2004. 9862853.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body". ARIA Top 50 Singles.
- ^ "The ARIA Report, Issue 757". ARIA Top 40 Urban Singles. National Library of Australia. Retrieved March 3, 2022.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body" (in German). Ö3 Austria Top 40.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body" (in Dutch). Ultratop 50.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body" (in French). Ultratop 50.
- ^ "R&R Canada CHR/Pop Top 30" (PDF). Radio & Records. No. 1564. July 16, 2004. p. 31. Retrieved October 13, 2020.
- ^ "Top Lista Hrvatskog Radija". Croatian Radiotelevision. Archived from the original on September 29, 2004. Retrieved April 14, 2023.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body". Tracklisten.
- ^ "Hits of the World – Eurocharts" (PDF). Billboard. Vol. 116, no. 36. September 4, 2004. p. 41. Retrieved March 22, 2020.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body" (in French). Le classement de singles.
- ^ "Offizielle Deutsche Charts" (in German). GfK Entertainment charts. To see the peak chart position, click 'TITEL VON', followed by the artist's name. Retrieved June 5, 2019.
- ^ "The Irish Charts – Search Results – Move Ya Body". Irish Singles Chart. Retrieved January 24, 2020.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body". Top Digital Download.
- ^ "Nederlandse Top 40 – week 31, 2004" (in Dutch). Dutch Top 40. Retrieved October 15, 2018.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body" (in Dutch). Single Top 100.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body". Top 40 Singles.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body". VG-lista.
- ^ "Arhiva romanian top 100 – Editia 33, saptamina 16.08 – 22.08, 2004" (in Romanian). Romanian Top 100. Archived from the original on January 18, 2005. Retrieved May 16, 2020.
- ^ "Official Scottish Singles Sales Chart on 7/8/2004 – Top 100". Official Charts Company. Retrieved October 15, 2018.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body". Singles Top 100.
- ^ "Nina Sky feat. Jabba – Move Ya Body". Swiss Singles Chart.
- ^ "Official Singles Chart on 17/7/2004 – Top 100". Official Charts Company. Retrieved October 15, 2018.
- ^ "Official Hip Hop and R&B Singles Chart on 17/7/2004 – Top 40". Official Charts Company. Retrieved October 15, 2018.
- ^ "Nina Sky Chart History (Hot 100)". Billboard. Retrieved March 13, 2019.
- ^ "Nina Sky Chart History (Dance Mix/Show Airplay)". Billboard. Retrieved May 16, 2020.
- ^ "Nina Sky Chart History (Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs)". Billboard. Retrieved March 13, 2019.
- ^ "Nina Sky Chart History (Pop Songs)". Billboard. Retrieved March 13, 2019.
- ^ "Nina Sky Chart History (Rhythmic Airplay)". Billboard. Retrieved March 13, 2019.
- ^ "Jaaroverzichten 2004" (in Dutch). Ultratop. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
- ^ "Rapports annuels 2004" (in French). Ultratop. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
- ^ "Top 100 Singles–Jahrescharts 2004" (in German). GfK Entertainment. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
- ^ "Top 100–Jaaroverzicht van 2004" (in Dutch). Dutch Top 40. Retrieved February 18, 2020.
- ^ "Jaaroverzichten – Single 2004" (in Dutch). MegaCharts. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
- ^ "Schweizer Jahreshitparade 2004" (in German). Retrieved April 30, 2019.
- ^ "The Official UK Singles Chart 2004" (PDF). UKChartsPlus. Retrieved October 15, 2018.
- ^ "2004 Urban top 30" (PDF). Music Week. January 22, 2005. p. 24. Retrieved August 5, 2023.
- ^ "Billboard Top 100 – 2004". Billboardtop100of.com. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
- ^ "Year in Music & Touring: Hot Dance Airplay". Billboard. Vol. 116, no. 52. December 25, 2004. p. YE-61. Retrieved December 21, 2023.
- ^ "Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs: 2004". Billboard. Retrieved February 18, 2020.
- ^ "2004 The Year in Charts: Most-Played Mainstream Top 40 Songs". Billboard Radio Monitor. Vol. 12, no. 51. December 17, 2004. p. 22.
- ^ "Year in Music & Touring: Hot Rhythmic Top 40 Tracks". Billboard. Vol. 116, no. 52. December 25, 2004. p. YE-75. Retrieved December 21, 2023.
- ^ "Going for Adds" (PDF). Radio & Records. No. 1550. April 9, 2004. p. 20. Retrieved June 15, 2021.
- ^ "Going for Adds" (PDF). Radio & Records. No. 1554. May 7, 2004. p. 28. Retrieved June 15, 2021.
- ^ "Reviews: Single of the Week". Music Week. June 26, 2004. p. 25.
External links
[edit]Move Ya Body
View on GrokipediaBackground and development
Conception and inspiration
Nina Sky, the Puerto Rican-American musical duo consisting of identical twin sisters Nicole and Natalie Albino, formed in the early 2000s in Queens, New York, with a focus on blending hip-hop, R&B, and dancehall elements drawn from their multicultural upbringing.[13][14] The sisters, who began writing songs as young children and were influenced by their stepfather's DJing, sought to create music that reflected the vibrant energy of New York City's nightlife and club scene.[13][14] The conception of "Move Ya Body" stemmed from a 2003 radio freestyle opportunity arranged by DJ Cipha Sounds, who provided the sisters with the "Coolie Dance" riddim—a popular Jamaican dancehall beat produced by Cordel "Skatta" Burrell—to inspire an original track.[13][15] Drawing from their experiences in Queens' diverse club environments, Nicole and Natalie wrote the song as an upbeat party anthem designed to capture the infectious energy of dancing and the empowering vibe of women owning the dance floor.[13][16] The track's simple, repetitive structure was intentionally crafted for club playability, emphasizing tight harmonies over the propulsive riddim to evoke carefree nightlife liberation.[16][15] To infuse authentic dancehall flavor into the hook, the duo decided to collaborate with Jamaican deejay Jabba (Cordel Burrell), whose contributions enhanced the track's rhythmic authenticity and summer anthem appeal.[15][14] This partnership aligned with Nina Sky's goal of bridging their R&B sensibilities with genuine dancehall roots, resulting in a demo that secured their record deal.[13]Recording and production
"Move Ya Body" was recorded in 2003 at The Hit Factory in New York City.[7] The track's production was handled by Elijah Wells and Lionel Bermingham of The Jettsonz Inc., who crafted its infectious rhythm blending dancehall and freestyle elements.[17] Additional production credits on certain versions went to DJ Cipha Sounds, contributing scratches and further refinements.[18] The song's core beat prominently samples the "Coolie Dance Rhythm" produced by Jamaican artist Cordel "Skatta" Burrell in 2003, providing the foundational riddim that drives its energetic pulse.[19] Additionally, the lyrics feature an interpolation of "Can You Feel the Beat" by Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam from 1986, woven into the bridge to enhance its freestyle vibe. Jabba's dancehall verse was recorded separately and integrated into the mix, adding an authentic Jamaican flavor to the hybrid sound.[7] Mixing took place at Bennette Studios in Englewood, New Jersey, where Wells and Bermingham polished the track's layers to emphasize its dancefloor-ready fusion of genres.[18] Mastering was completed at Hit Factory Mastering in New York City, finalizing the song at a runtime of 3:54 and ensuring its crisp, club-oriented production quality.[17]Music and lyrics
Musical composition
"Move Ya Body" is a dancehall track infused with freestyle elements, incorporating hip-hop rhythms and R&B vocal stylings.[20][21] The song is composed in the key of B minor, which contributes to its energetic and seductive vibe, and maintains a tempo of 121 beats per minute in 4/4 time, making it highly danceable.[22][23] It follows a conventional verse-chorus structure, beginning with an intro by featured artist Jabba, followed by two verses sung by the duo, repeating choruses, and a bridge section featuring Jabba's rap.[2] The track is built upon the Coolie Dance riddim, a synth bass-driven beat that provides a heavy, pulsating bassline central to its club-oriented sound.[24] Synth hooks add melodic layers, while percussive elements, including sharp snares and hi-hats, mimic the intensity of live dancehall sessions and urban club beats. The full album version runs for 3:52, with the radio edit trimmed to approximately 3:48 for broadcast play.[22][25] Vocals are produced with layering techniques to create rich duo harmonies, leveraging the twins' natural vocal synergy for a fuller, more immersive effect.[26]Lyrical content
The lyrics of "Move Ya Body" center on themes of female empowerment, body positivity, and carefree dancing within a vibrant club environment, encouraging listeners to embrace their physicality and confidence on the dance floor.[27] The chorus, repeated throughout the track, exemplifies this with lines like "Ooh, move ya body, girl / Let the fellas know / The way ya move it, girl / Let the fellas know," which celebrate a woman's commanding presence and the liberating joy of movement.[2] This playful exhortation promotes body positivity by highlighting how rhythmic dancing fosters self-assurance and attracts admiration without inhibition.[27] Jabba's guest verse introduces a flirtatious male perspective, adding a dynamic interplay that enhances the song's energetic, party-driven narrative; lines such as "Alright, right about now massive and crew / Ya dun know, say a Jabba pass through" incorporate Jamaican patois to evoke a global club camaraderie, contrasting yet complementing the twins' harmonious vocals.[2] The bridge interpolates the line "Turn off the lights and I'll glow / To the music nice and slow" from Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam and Full Force's "Can You Feel the Beat," infusing sensuality and intimacy into the carefree dancing motif, as the glow symbolizes an inner radiance amid the dim club lights.[28] Reflecting the Puerto Rican heritage of duo members Nicole and Natalie Albino, the lyrics blend English with patois influences, creating a flirtatious, multicultural tone that nods to Latin and Caribbean rhythms without explicit Spanish phrasing.[29] Overall, the textual elements maintain a lighthearted, empowering vibe, prioritizing joy, attraction, and uninhibited expression over deeper introspection.[27]Release and promotion
Single release
"Move Ya Body" was released on April 27, 2004, by Universal Records as the lead single from Nina Sky's self-titled debut album.[30] The initial US release came in CD maxi-single and 12-inch vinyl formats, distributed through Universal Records in collaboration with Next Plateau Entertainment.[31][18] International versions followed shortly thereafter, including editions for the UK and Europe under Universal Records and associated imprints like Island Records Group.[17] Under Universal Records' oversight, the single's rollout was closely aligned with promotion for the parent album, which launched on June 22, 2004.[32] A digital version became available later in 2004 via Universal Records, with streaming options emerging by 2005 on early platforms.[31][33] The release incorporated brief promotional tie-ins, such as early radio airplay, to build anticipation ahead of broader marketing efforts.[34]Promotional activities
To promote "Move Ya Body" upon its release, Nina Sky and their label Universal Records initiated a targeted radio campaign in early 2004, focusing on urban contemporary and rhythmic pop stations to capitalize on the song's dancehall and R&B fusion. The track quickly gained traction on these formats, with rhythmic top 40 outlets playing a key role in building early buzz ahead of its chart ascent. Live performances were a cornerstone of the promotional strategy, including an appearance on MTV's Total Request Live (TRL) on July 14, 2004, where the duo performed the song alongside Will Smith and engaged with fans to amplify visibility among younger audiences.[35][36] They also performed at summer music festivals and events, including a live rendition on the UK's Top of the Pops in 2004, leveraging the track's high-energy vibe to connect with live crowds during the peak season.[37] International efforts included promotional tours across Europe, such as photo shoots and media appearances in Germany.[38] In 2023, a remix featuring CHAMOS was released as a digital single, updating the original with fresh production while retaining its core appeal; this edition included new digital artwork and was supported by social media campaigns on platforms like Instagram, where Nina Sky shared nostalgic content and performance clips to re-engage longtime fans. To mark the 20th anniversary in 2024, the duo released live performance videos from New York City events, further boosting engagement on social media as of May 2024.[39][40][40]Critical reception
Contemporary reviews
Upon its release in 2004, "Move Ya Body" garnered positive contemporary reviews for its vibrant fusion of dancehall rhythms and freestyle pop sensibilities. Pitchfork placed the track at number 29 on its list of the top 50 singles of the year, lauding it as a "perfect pop song—like ice cream on a hot summer day" with the twins' "gorgeous, liquid hooks" woven over the frantic handclaps and bongos of the Coolie Dance rhythm, creating a sun-dappled, effortless blend of genres.[41] AllMusic emphasized the song's infectious energy and suitability for club environments, noting it is based on the Coolie Dance rhythm as designed by dancehall producer Ward 21.[42] Entertainment Weekly echoed this appeal, calling it a "brilliant breakthrough single" and a smart gambit that tapped into New York City's dancehall scene with its conga-driven "coolie dance" beat.[43] Reviews offered mixed assessments of Jabba's guest feature, with Pitchfork appreciating the dancehall authenticity it brought through his yelled contributions but characterizing him as a "no-name" adding to the track's chaotic backdrop without overpowering the twins' cooing vocals.[41] The track was widely embraced as a quintessential summer hit, evoking urban heatwaves and street play in The New Yorker's assessment, where it was likened to "Flatbush Avenue with the fire hydrants open and the radios on," propelled by the steady handclaps and bongo pulse of the Coolie Dance rhythm.[44]Retrospective assessments
In later years, "Move Ya Body" has been celebrated in music retrospectives for its role as a defining early 2000s dance-pop and dancehall track. In Rolling Stone's 2025 ranking of the 50 best one-hit wonders of the 2000s, the song placed at number 16, praised as a "cultural touchstone" that fused the Coolie Dance riddim with the Puerto Rico-born twins' tight harmonies and nods to 1980s freestyle acts like Lisa Lisa, capturing the era's blend of urban and Latin influences.[45] By the 2020s, publications highlighted its lasting influence on reggaeton and crossover genres. Billboard's 2024 staff picks for the 100 best songs of 2004 described "Move Ya Body" as continuing "to age like fine wine," noting nearly 200 million streams on digital platforms as evidence of its enduring appeal in club and throwback playlists.[46] Similarly, Rolling Stone's 2024 list of 25 riddims that defined Jamaican music positioned the track as a standout 2004 release that bridged dancehall with mainstream pop, influencing global club anthems and later artists like Beyoncé, who incorporated the Coolie Dance riddim into her 2023 Renaissance World Tour performance of "Move."[24] Cultural analyses have underscored the song's contribution to Latinx visibility in mainstream music. As Puerto Rican-New York twins Nicole and Natalie Albino, Nina Sky brought authentic Latin rhythms and bilingual energy to U.S. airwaves at a time when reggaeton was emerging, helping normalize pan-Latino pride in pop contexts; a 2024 analysis from USC Annenberg Media noted them as one of the few women, alongside Ivy Queen, charting alongside male reggaeton pioneers and paving the way for greater female representation in the genre.[47] Academic work on reggaeton narratives, such as a 2018 Gettysburg College study, extends this to their broader discography, including "Move Ya Body," for celebrating multicultural identities like "boricua, morena, dominicana" in empowering, dance-oriented forms that challenged mainstream exclusions of Latinx voices.[48] Recent buzz in 2024–2025, tied to the song's 20th anniversary, has amplified its legacy through sample breakdowns and digital revivals, with music outlets dissecting its riddim's role in modern tracks and its viral resurgence on streaming and short-form video platforms.[45]Commercial performance
Chart performance
"Move Ya Body" achieved significant success on the US Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at number 4 in August 2004 and spent a total of 26 weeks on the chart.[5] The track also reached number 1 on the Hot Dance Club Songs chart, highlighting its strong appeal in dance-oriented markets.[49] Additionally, it ranked at number 22 on the 2004 year-end Hot 100 chart, reflecting its enduring popularity throughout the year.[50] Internationally, the song performed well across various territories. In the United Kingdom, it peaked at number 6 on the UK Singles Chart.[51] It entered the top 10 in several European and Oceanic markets, including number 4 in the Netherlands on the Dutch Top 40,[52] number 7 in Germany on the German Singles Chart,[53] and number 6 in New Zealand on the New Zealand Top 40.[54] The track reached number 11 in Belgium on the Belgium Singles Top 50, number 12 in Australia on the ARIA Singles Chart, and number 21 in France on the France Singles Top 100.[55]| Chart (2004) | Peak Position |
|---|---|
| Australia (ARIA) | 12 |
| Belgium (Ultratop Flanders) | 11 |
| France (SNEP) | 21 |
| Germany (Official German Charts) | 7 |
| Netherlands (Dutch Top 40) | 4 |
| New Zealand (Recorded Music NZ) | 6 |
| UK Singles (OCC) | 6 |
| US Billboard Hot 100 | 4 |
| US Hot Dance Club Songs (Billboard) | 1 |
Certifications and sales
In the United States, "Move Ya Body" was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in August 2004, denoting shipments of 500,000 units.[57] In the United Kingdom, the track received a Gold certification from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) in 2025, equivalent to 400,000 units sold or streamed.[7] It was also awarded Platinum status by Recorded Music NZ in New Zealand for 30,000 units.[57] Renewed interest through digital streaming has boosted its figures further, with a 2023 remix by CHAMOS contributing to updated streaming equivalents that supported the recent BPI award.[39]Music video
Production and concept
The music video for "Move Ya Body" was directed by Max Nichols and co-directed by Scott Winig in 2004.[58] Filming took place in a nightclub setting, designed to replicate an energetic party environment with vibrant lighting and coordinated choreography to capture the song's upbeat, dance-oriented vibe.[59] The concept centered on high-energy dance sequences that highlighted the track's theme of rhythmic movement and celebration, showcasing a diverse group of participants to reflect the inclusive, communal spirit of club culture. The video features the duo Nina Sky—sisters Nicole and Natalie Albino—alongside rapper Jabba, with cameo appearances by Fat Joe, DJ Cipha Sounds, and radio personality Angie Martinez, adding layers of urban authenticity to the party scene.[58] This approach aligned with the song's lyrical encouragement to "move ya body" in a carefree, infectious manner, prioritizing visual dynamism over narrative complexity.[2]Release and reception
The music video for "Move Ya Body" was released in 2004 alongside the single's promotion, receiving heavy rotation on major networks including MTV and BET.[58] It quickly gained traction on MTV's Total Request Live (TRL), reflecting its popularity in the urban music video landscape of the era. An official remastered HD version of the video was uploaded to YouTube on August 18, 2021, by the artists' channel, amassing over 118 million views as of November 2025.[10] Earlier fan uploads indicated sustained online interest even before the official release.[60] The video received positive reception for its energetic visuals and the duo's performance. Some reviews noted predictability in the standard dance video format, but overall emphasized its infectious appeal and role in showcasing Nina Sky's fresh take on dancehall fusion. The video featured brief cameo appearances from contemporaries in the New York hip-hop scene, adding to its authentic urban vibe. In recent years, the video experienced a resurgence during the song's 20th anniversary in 2024, fueled by social media clips on platforms like TikTok and Instagram that highlighted its nostalgic choreography and beats, while fan-driven remixes and live performances kept it relevant into 2025.Awards and nominations
Major awards
"Move Ya Body" earned acclaim through formal award ceremonies, securing one win and several nominations in its debut year and the following. The track's blend of R&B, dancehall, and pop elements positioned it for recognition in genre-spanning categories, highlighting Nina Sky's breakthrough impact. The song won the Utwor R'n'B category at the 2004 Rapgra Awards, a Polish accolade celebrating hip-hop and R&B achievements.[61] In 2005, it received two nominations at the International Dance Music Awards, including Best Pop Dance Track for "Move Ya Body" and Best New Dance Artist Group for Nina Sky, reflecting its global club appeal during the Winter Music Conference.[61] At the 10th Annual Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards, the single was nominated for Best R&B/Soul Single, Group, Band or Duo, while Nina Sky's self-titled debut album earned a nod in the Best R&B/Soul Album, Group, Band or Duo category.[62]Other recognitions
"Move Ya Body" received a nomination for Best Pop Dance Track at the 2005 International Dance Music Awards.[61] The track was ranked among the 50 best one-hit wonders of the 2000s by Rolling Stone in 2025.[45] It was also highlighted in Complex's 2015 retrospective on notable songs of the summer, representing 2004's standout club anthems.[63] The song has been featured in various 2000s throwback playlists on Spotify, including the official "Early 2000s Dancehall Reggae Mix."[64] Additionally, it appears in the video game Dance Central (2010) and its sequels, where players can perform choreographed routines to the track.[65]Track listings and formats
Standard editions
The standard editions of "Move Ya Body" primarily consist of physical CD singles and digital releases featuring the original album version and related mixes, excluding remixes which are covered separately. The US CD maxi-single, released by Universal Records and Next Plateau Entertainment, includes the radio edit (3:55, featuring Jabba), instrumental version (3:55), call out research hook (0:19), In a Dream (radio edit, 3:25), and In a Dream (a cappella version, 3:25).[18]| Track | Title | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Move Ya Body (Radio Edit) [feat. Jabba] | 3:55 |
| 2 | Move Ya Body (Instrumental Version) | 3:55 |
| 3 | Move Ya Body (Call Out Research Hook) | 0:19 |
| 4 | In a Dream (Radio Edit) | 3:25 |
| 5 | In a Dream (A Cappella Version) | 3:25 |
| Track | Title | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Move Ya Body [feat. Jabba] | 3:54 |
| 2 | Move Ya Body (Hyperspace Remix) | 4:28 |
| 3 | In a Dream | 3:32 |
