Gotye, whose real name is Wouter "Wally" De Backer, is an Australian-Belgian musician known for his hit song "Somebody That I Used to Know." Here are some interesting facts about him and the song:
International Breakthrough: "Somebody That I Used to Know" catapulted Gotye to international fame. The song topped the charts in over 30 countries, including the United States, where it reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2012.
Collaborative Effort: The song features New Zealand singer Kimbra, whose vocals complement Gotye's. Kimbra's participation in the song played a significant role in its success.
DIY Music Video: The music video for "Somebody That I Used to Know" is known for its unique visual style. It features both Gotye and Kimbra painted to blend into a constantly changing background. The video was created using a stop-motion animation technique and took several months to complete.
Cover Versions and Parodies: The song's widespread popularity led to numerous cover versions and parodies by various artists and comedians. Some of these versions gained significant attention on social media platforms.
Awards and Recognition: "Somebody That I Used to Know" earned Gotye and Kimbra several awards and nominations, including Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance in 2013.
Artistic Background: Gotye is not just a musician; he is also a visual artist and songwriter. He has a strong interest in exploring various art forms, which is evident in the creative aspects of his music videos and album artwork.
Sampling Influence: Gotye's music often incorporates a wide range of influences and samples from different genres. His eclectic approach to music can be heard in his album "Making Mirrors," which features a diverse mix of styles.
Born in Belgium, Raised in Australia: Gotye was born in Bruges, Belgium, but moved to Melbourne, Australia, with his family at the age of two. He considers Australia his home and has built his music career there.
Early Musical Endeavors: Before achieving worldwide recognition, Gotye released several independent albums and singles. He was part of the alternative rock band The Basics and experimented with various musical styles.
Evolving Sound: Gotye's music is known for its evolution and experimentation. He has explored genres ranging from indie rock to electronic and experimental pop, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
Post-"Somebody That I Used to Know": After the success of the song, Gotye took a break from music to focus on other artistic pursuits. He has spoken about the challenges of living up to the massive success of his hit single.
Environmental Activism: Gotye is an advocate for environmental conservation and has supported various initiatives aimed at raising awareness about climate change and sustainability.
While "Somebody That I Used to Know" remains one of Gotye's most iconic songs, his artistic journey and contributions to music and the arts extend beyond this mega-hit.