ATC timeless classic ‘Around the World (La La La La La)’ turns 24 years old

Celebrating its 24th anniversary, “Around the World (La La La La La)” remains a timeless anthem by the German-based international Eurodance group ATC (A Touch of Class).

Originally a cover of the Russian hit “Pesenka” by Ruki Vverh!, the song infuses the original melody with English lyrics, featuring the iconic “la la la la la” chorus. Subsequently, released in May 2000, it quickly became ATC’s most successful single, climbing the charts in numerous countries worldwide.

Marking ATC’s debut, “Around the World (La La La La La)” emerged as the lead single from their inaugural album, Planet Pop, hitting the airwaves on May 22, 2000, in Germany. Produced by Alex Christensen, the song’s melody draws heavily from “Pesenka,” propelling it to the top spot on the German Singles Chart for six consecutive weeks. Furthermore, its success extended to other territories; with number-one rankings in Austria, Poland, Romania, and Switzerland, and top 10 positions in various other countries.

Despite a modest reception upon its initial UK release in November 2000, a remixed version in August 2002 reignited interest, peaking at number 15 on the UK Singles Chart. Additionally, across the Atlantic, the song made its mark in the United States, debuting on radio stations in January 2001 and reaching number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song’s vibrant energy is matched by its music video, filmed in 1999. Featuring a yellow Melkus RS 1000 car adorned with the “ATC” logo, the video showcases exhilarating scenes of the car racing and drifting. Intermittently, shots of the group members dancing on a platform surrounded by water add to the visual spectacle.