Gotye, whose real name is Wouter "Wally" De Backer, is a Belgian-Australian singer-songwriter 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" was a massive international hit, reaching number one on the charts in more than 20 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. It catapulted Gotye to global fame.
Collaboration with Kimbra: The song features New Zealand singer Kimbra, whose vocals provide a contrasting perspective to Gotye's in the lyrics. Kimbra's contribution played a significant role in the song's success.
Sampled Artwork: The music video for "Somebody That I Used to Know" is distinctive for its unique artwork. The video features both Gotye and Kimbra painted to blend seamlessly into a painted background. The artwork was inspired by Belgian surrealist René Magritte's style and was created by Australian artist Natasha Pincus.
Record-Breaking Success: The song received widespread acclaim and broke several records. It was the best-selling digital single of 2012, selling over 13 million copies worldwide in that year alone. It also became one of the best-selling digital singles of all time.
Grammy Award-Winning: "Somebody That I Used to Know" won two Grammy Awards in 2013. It was named Record of the Year and also won the Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.
Gotye's Musical Background: Gotye was born in Bruges, Belgium, and moved to Australia with his family at the age of two. He has a diverse musical background and is known for experimenting with various musical styles, including indie rock, pop, and electronic music.
Multi-Instrumentalist: Gotye is a talented multi-instrumentalist, proficient in playing several instruments, including drums, piano, and guitar. He often incorporates a wide range of instruments into his music.
Album "Making Mirrors": "Somebody That I Used to Know" is featured on Gotye's third studio album, "Making Mirrors," which was released in 2011. The album received critical acclaim and established him as a prominent figure in the music industry.
Cultural Impact: The song's lyrics, which explore themes of love, loss, and nostalgia, resonated with many listeners. "Somebody That I Used to Know" became an anthem for those who had experienced the end of a romantic relationship.
Gotye's Post-"Somebody" Career: While "Somebody That I Used to Know" remains his most iconic hit, Gotye continued to make music after its success. He has explored different musical directions and collaborations, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
These facts highlight the remarkable success of Gotye and the enduring impact of "Somebody That I Used to Know" on the music industry and popular culture.