Rickroll (Video)
Year First Appeared
2007
Creator
Shawn Cotter
Rickroll (Video) is a bait‑and‑switch internet prank where a seemingly relevant link unexpectedly takes viewers to Rick Astley’s 1987 “Never Gonna Give You Up” music video.
Importance in Internet Culture
Rickrolling was the first bait‑and‑switch meme to achieve massive mainstream visibility, showing how a simple hyperlink prank could circulate globally and shape internet culture. Its endurance is evident in the official video surpassing one billion YouTube views, cementing it as a lasting cultural touchstone.
Interesting Fact
Despite billions of cumulative plays, Rick Astley earned only $12 in performer royalties from the YouTube video because he does not own the composition rights.