Gotye is a Belgian-Australian musician and songwriter known for his hit song "Somebody That I Used to Know." Here are some interesting facts about him and the song:
Belgian-Australian Heritage: Gotye, whose real name is Wouter De Backer, was born in Bruges, Belgium, in 1980. He moved to Australia with his family when he was two years old and grew up in Melbourne, where he developed his musical career.
Multi-Instrumentalist: Gotye is a talented multi-instrumentalist. He can play various instruments, including drums, guitar, bass guitar, and keyboard, which contributes to his unique sound.
"Somebody That I Used to Know" Collaboration: Gotye's breakout hit "Somebody That I Used to Know" features New Zealand singer Kimbra. The song was released in 2011 as part of Gotye's album "Making Mirrors." It became an international sensation and topped the charts in numerous countries.
Chart-Topping Success: "Somebody That I Used to Know" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, making Gotye the fifth Australian artist to achieve this feat. It also earned him two Grammy Awards in 2013.
Record-Breaking YouTube Views: The music video for "Somebody That I Used to Know" gained widespread popularity on YouTube. It was one of the most-watched videos on the platform and reached over one billion views within a year of its release.
Artistic Music Videos: Gotye is known for his visually captivating music videos. The video for "Somebody That I Used to Know" features a unique body-painting technique that creates the illusion of the singers being part of a painted canvas.
Cover Versions and Parodies: The song's success led to numerous cover versions and parodies on YouTube and other platforms. It became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a wide range of interpretations and adaptations.
Disappearance from the Music Scene: After the immense success of "Somebody That I Used to Know," Gotye took a step back from the music scene. He explained that he needed time to recharge creatively and that he didn't want to rush into making new music.
Environmental Activism: Gotye is an advocate for environmental causes and has used his platform to raise awareness about climate change and sustainability.
Artistic Exploration: Gotye is known for his eclectic and experimental approach to music. He incorporates various genres and influences into his work, making each album a unique artistic exploration.
While "Somebody That I Used to Know" remains Gotye's most recognizable hit, his musical talent and creativity continue to make him a respected figure in the music industry.