Toni Basil (born Antonia Christina Basilotta on September 22, 1943) is a multifaceted American artist whose career spans singing, acting, choreography, and directing, but she is best known for her iconic hit single "Mickey." Released in 1982, "Mickey" became a defining anthem of the era, topping charts worldwide with its catchy chorus and cheerleader-themed music video, a pioneer in the then-nascent MTV culture. The song's infectious appeal and its innovative video showcased Basil's deep roots in dance and choreography, making her a multi-disciplinary force in the entertainment industry.

Before her breakthrough with "Mickey," Toni Basil had already established herself in the arts, working as a dancer and choreographer for film, television, and live performances. Her choreography credits are extensive, contributing to major Hollywood productions and collaborating with artists across various music genres. Despite the overwhelming success of "Mickey," Basil's musical career did not follow the traditional trajectory of a pop star. She continued to release music, such as "Shoppin' A-Z" and live performances like "Wham! Re-Bop (Live)," while maintaining a respected position in the dance and choreography community. Toni Basil's artistic versatility, pioneering music video work, and her contribution to the dance world solidify her status as an enduring figure in popular culture.

Genres

Pop

Rock

Synthpop

Pop Rock

Dance Pop

Funk

New Wave

Post-disco

Dance Rock

Bubblegum Pop

Hi-nrg

Related Artists

Cyndi Lauper

The Go-Go's

Blondie

The Bangles

Pat Benatar

Kim Wilde

Madonna

The B-52's

Debbie Harry

Eurythmics

Kool & The Gang

The Pointer Sisters

Latest Release

Mickey (Spanish Version)

Toni Basil

Single - Released July 22, 2022