The Making of Gotye’s Hit “Somebody That I Used to Know”
Few songs in the 21st century have captured the global zeitgeist quite like Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know.” Released in 2011 as the second single from Gotye’s third studio album, Making Mirrors, the track quickly became a worldwide phenomenon. The haunting duet featuring New Zealand singer Kimbra transcended borders, language barriers, and genres, cementing itself as a timeless breakup anthem. Behind its success lies an intricate story of artistic collaboration, unconventional recording methods, and an artist’s unique vision.
Gotye’s Vision and the Genesis of the Song
Gotye, whose real name is Wouter “Wally” De Backer, hails from Australia but was born in Belgium. Known for his eclectic approach to music, Gotye had always embraced experimentation. His previous albums were rich with samples and layered instrumentation, showcasing his ability to weave disparate sounds into cohesive works of art.
The concept for “Somebody That I Used to Know” emerged from a personal experience of heartbreak. Gotye wanted to create a song that encapsulated the bitterness and complexity of a fractured relationship. He envisioned a conversational structure where two perspectives on a breakup could coexist and contrast.
Crafting the Instrumental Backdrop
One of the defining features of “Somebody That I Used to Know” is its distinctive instrumental loop. The song’s backbone is built around a sample from Brazilian guitarist Luiz Bonfá’s “Seville,” a 1967 track that Gotye discovered while exploring his parents’ record collection. The delicate, melancholic guitar riff immediately resonated with Gotye, who saw it as the perfect foundation for the emotional narrative he wanted to construct.
Gotye built the rest of the arrangement using his home studio setup. He layered sparse percussion, subtle synths, and a vibraphone to create a minimal yet deeply atmospheric sound. Each element was meticulously placed to enhance the raw emotion of the vocals without overwhelming the listener.
The Search for a Counterpart
From the outset, Gotye knew that the song required a second voice to fully realize his vision. While his verses reflect the male perspective of the breakup, he wanted the female counterpart to offer a contrasting point of view, bringing the narrative to life.
After auditioning several singers, Gotye’s search led him to Kimbra Johnson, a rising star from New Zealand known for her soulful voice and dynamic range. At the time, Kimbra was working on her debut album, Vows, and had begun to attract attention in the Australasian music scene. Gotye’s manager suggested her for the project, and after hearing her demos, Gotye was convinced she was the perfect fit.
Kimbra’s Contribution
Kimbra’s involvement added a new dimension to the song. Her delicate yet powerful voice provided the emotional intensity Gotye was seeking. When Kimbra entered the studio to record her part, she brought her unique interpretative style to the table. Her delivery of the lines was nuanced and full of vulnerability, perfectly complementing Gotye’s restrained yet emotive performance.
The recording process was collaborative, with Gotye and Kimbra experimenting with phrasing and tone to find the ideal balance between their voices. Kimbra’s response verse—in which she defends her actions and calls out the male narrator’s self-pity—adds depth and complexity to the narrative, transforming it from a one-sided lament to a conversation.
The Iconic Music Video
The success of “Somebody That I Used to Know” was bolstered by its visually arresting music video, directed by Natasha Pincus. The video features Gotye and Kimbra standing nude against a white background as their bodies are gradually painted to blend into a mural behind them. The stop-motion painting effect, created by artist Emma Hack, symbolizes the way people become entwined in relationships and how they fade into the background after a breakup.
The simplicity and artistic nature of the video resonated with audiences, and it quickly went viral on YouTube, garnering millions of views within weeks of its release. As of today, the video has been viewed billions of times, making it one of the most-watched music videos on the platform.
Global Reception and Cultural Impact
“Somebody That I Used to Know” struck a chord with listeners around the globe. Its raw, relatable lyrics and haunting melody made it a staple on radio stations and streaming platforms. The song topped the charts in over 25 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. In the U.S., it spent eight consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the best-performing song of 2012.
Critics praised the song for its emotional depth, inventive production, and the chemistry between Gotye and Kimbra. Many noted its refreshing departure from the formulaic pop songs dominating the airwaves at the time. It became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless covers, parodies, and memes.
Awards and Accolades
The critical and commercial success of “Somebody That I Used to Know” translated into numerous awards and accolades. The song’s most notable achievements include:Grammy Awards (2013):
- Record of the Year
- Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
These awards were presented at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards held on February 10, 2013.
ARIA Music Awards (2011):
- Single of the Year
- Best Pop Release
- Best Video
The ARIA Awards ceremony took place on November 27, 2011.
APRA Music Awards (2012):
- Song of the Year
This award was presented at the APRA Music Awards held on May 28, 2012.
Billboard Music Awards (2013):
- Top Hot 100 Song
- Top Radio Song
The Billboard Music Awards ceremony occurred on May 19, 2013.
Release Date and Other Notable Facts
- Release Date: July 5, 2011 (Australia) as the second single from Making Mirrors.
- Album: Making Mirrors, released on August 19, 2011.
- Sales: Over 13 million copies sold worldwide, making it one of the best-selling digital singles of all time.
- Streaming Milestone: Surpassed 1 billion streams on Spotify and 2 billion views on YouTube.
- Covers: One of the most-covered songs of the decade, including a viral a cappella version by Walk off the Earth.
Legacy
Although Gotye has not released another album since Making Mirrors, “Somebody That I Used to Know” remains a defining moment in his career and in modern pop music. Its timeless quality ensures it continues to resonate with new generations of listeners. Kimbra’s involvement also helped launch her international career, earning her widespread recognition.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its authenticity, innovative production, and the universal emotions it captures. “Somebody That I Used to Know” is not just a song—it is a masterpiece that will forever hold a place in music history.
Recommended Products
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
