Michael Jackson, one of the most recognisable pop performers of the twentieth century, made sharp vocal ad-libs such as hee-hee a signature part of his sound, using them to add rhythm, energy and personality to songs and stage routines. As clips of his performances circulated online, the short exclamation became detached from any single track and began circulating as a standalone reaction sound. Today creators use it as shorthand for confidence, flair and classic pop showmanship, which is why a one-second burst still reads instantly even without music around it.