When The Black Eyed Peas released “The Time (Dirty Bit)” in 2010, the group once again proved their ability to blend nostalgia with modern innovation. Sampling the iconic hook from “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life”, the track opens with a familiar sentiment before diving headfirst into a high-energy electro-pop anthem. The song reflects the band’s futuristic vision—layering robotic vocals, heavy beats, and digital effects in a way that made it both a club staple and a commercial success.
From a production standpoint, “The Time (Dirty Bit)” showcases the group’s evolving experimentation with electronic and dance music, a signature that came to define their late 2000s sound. Will.i.am’s production mixes classic melody with glitchy, high-energy breakdowns, while Fergie’s vocals provide a warm counterbalance to the digital textures. The contrast between the soft, sentimental chorus and the aggressive club-ready verses creates a dynamic listening experience that resonated with global audiences.
This track’s impact extended beyond charts—it marked a cultural moment where pop music leaned fully into electronic experimentation. With over 600 million views and massive radio play, “The Time (Dirty Bit)” remains a bold example of genre fusion done right. The Black Eyed Peas didn’t just cover a classic—they reimagined it for a new generation, demonstrating their creative range and influence in shaping 21st-century pop music.