Cotton Eye Joe is a traditional American folk song that became a worldwide dance hit in 1994 when Swedish group Rednex recorded a fast techno country version. Its banjo hook and chant later made it a staple at parties, sports events and early internet videos. Adding an extended reee turns that familiar chorus into a scream meme, a format online editors use to mark exaggerated panic or excitement. The contrast between the upbeat dance track and the strained vocal keeps the clip reusable for reaction edits.