The Origins of “Standing on Business”

“Standing on business” isn’t a phrase that sprouted overnight on the internet. While a definitive origin story remains elusive, the concept has likely existed within Black communities for some time. The idea of being firm in your word, prioritizing your goals, and demanding respect in your dealings resonates deeply within this cultural context.

Earlier usages of the phrase might be found scattered across social media platforms or even spoken conversation, but without a clear-cut starting point.

Druski’s Impact

Enter Druski, the comedic mastermind who, in September 2023, took social media by storm with a skit poking fun at those who misuse “standing on business.” His hilarious portrayal of people who claim to be “standing on business” while engaging in nonsensical or unproductive behavior went viral. The skit’s popularity not only ignited a wave of memes and discussions but also spurred the creation of a song titled “Standing on Bihness,” a playful twist on the phrase.

Adding another layer to the story, a friendly “rivalry” emerged between Druski and rapper Drake. Drake’s use of the phrase in his song “Daylight” further propelled it into the mainstream consciousness. The back-and-forth, though lighthearted, showcased the cultural impact of both Druski and the phrase itself.

Finally, “standing on business” found a new home on TikTok. A series of skits and challenges emerged, further solidifying the phrase’s place in internet lingo. Druski’s initial influence, coupled with the interactive nature of TikTok, ensured “standing on business” became a widely recognized and used expression.

Who gets the credit?

Just when we thought the story was complete, another contender entered the ring. In February 2024, rapper King Harris stepped forward, claiming to have originated the phrase “standing on business.” This adds another layer to the debate: should the credit go to Druski for raising awareness through his comedic take or to King Harris for potentially introducing the phrase earlier?

Ultimately, the question of who gets the credit might not have a definitive answer. Druski undeniably played a crucial role in bringing “standing on business” to the forefront of internet culture. His skit sparked conversations, memes, and even a song, significantly increasing the phrase’s visibility. On the other hand, King Harris’ claim suggests the phrase might have been circulating within specific circles before Druski’s intervention.

Conclusion

The journey of “standing on business” highlights the fascinating dynamics of internet trends. While a singular origin might be elusive, the phrase clearly resonated within black communities for some time before exploding on social media. Druski’s comedic genius, coupled with the interactive nature of platforms like TikTok, undeniably played a major role in propelling it to mainstream popularity.

The debate surrounding who gets the credit showcases the collaborative nature of internet culture. Whether it was Druski amplifying an existing term or King Harris introducing it to a wider audience, both figures contributed to “standing on business” becoming a ubiquitous expression. The lack of a single origin story only adds to the phrase’s intrigue, demonstrating its organic evolution within the ever-evolving landscape of online trends.

Join the conversation! Head to the comments below and share your thoughts on “standing on business.” Do you think Druski deserves the credit for making the phrase viral, or is it more of a community-driven phenomenon? We’re curious to hear any interesting origin stories you might have about the phrase as well!

Want to know more about business? Check out our other blogs on the same topic:
https://gainfulinsight.com/category/business/
https://gainfulinsight.com/what-does-standing-on-business-mean/