Walking on Sunshine was written by Kimberley Rew and recorded by Katrina and the Waves, first released in 1983 before becoming a major hit in 1985. Its bright tempo and simple, repeatable chorus helped it endure in films, adverts and television, long after its chart run ended. Online, short excerpts became shorthand for exaggerated happiness, with creators using the hook as a walking on sunshine meme for upbeat edits, parodies and reaction videos that need instant, recognisable joy without any setup or explanation needed from the viewer at all.
About this sound
The upbeat chorus of Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves, used as a meme sound for happy, energetic and ironic feel-good moments online.
This clip is the bright, instantly recognisable chorus hook from Walking on Sunshine, built around a bouncy rhythm, punchy horns and Katrina Leskanich's joyful vocal delivery. The melody rises quickly with an infectious energy that feels like pure optimism in musical form. Even in a few seconds it signals sunshine, movement and a carefree mood, which is why it lands so effectively over footage of someone striding confidently, celebrating good news or enjoying an unexpectedly perfect day. The contrast also works for comedy when the visuals are far less cheerful than the music.
