"Someone That I Used to Know" is a song by Belgian-Australian musician Gotye, featuring New Zealand singer Kimbra. Here are some interesting facts about the song and Gotye:
International Breakthrough: "Somebody That I Used to Know" was a massive international hit and catapulted Gotye to global fame. It topped the charts in more than 20 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.
Chart Success: The song spent eight consecutive weeks at the number-one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, making it one of the longest-running chart-toppers in the 2010s.
Unique Sound: Gotye is known for his eclectic and experimental approach to music. "Somebody That I Used to Know" incorporates elements of indie pop, alternative rock, and electronica, making it stand out from mainstream pop songs.
Collaborative Effort: The song features vocals from Kimbra, and her contribution adds a unique dynamic to the track. Kimbra's voice complements Gotye's and helps tell the story from two perspectives.
Music Video: The music video for "Somebody That I Used to Know" is widely recognized for its innovative use of body paint. Both Gotye and Kimbra appear painted to match the background, giving them a "disappearing" effect. The video has garnered millions of views on YouTube.
Album: The song is part of Gotye's third studio album, "Making Mirrors," which was released in 2011. The album received critical acclaim and showcased Gotye's versatility as a musician.
Awards: "Somebody That I Used to Know" won several awards, including two Grammy Awards in 2013 for Record of the Year and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. It also received ARIA Awards in Australia.
Cultural Impact: The song's catchy melody and relatable lyrics about a past relationship resonated with listeners, making it a popular choice for covers, parodies, and references in popular culture.
Gotye's Artistic Journey: While "Somebody That I Used to Know" is undoubtedly Gotye's most famous song, he has a diverse body of work that explores various genres and themes. He is known for his commitment to artistic experimentation and creativity in his music.
Limited Releases: Despite its success, Gotye has expressed a desire to distance himself from the song's overwhelming popularity and has mentioned in interviews that he's ready to explore new musical territories.
"Somebody That I Used to Know" marked a significant moment in Gotye's career and in the world of pop music, showcasing his ability to create innovative and emotionally resonant music.