"Somebody That I Used to Know" is a popular song by Gotye featuring Kimbra. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
International Success: "Somebody That I Used to Know" achieved worldwide success and topped the charts in over 30 countries. It became one of the best-selling digital singles of all time.
Grammy Awards: The song won two Grammy Awards in 2013: Record of the Year and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. Gotye and Kimbra received widespread acclaim for their collaboration.
Innovative Music Video: The music video for the song is known for its creativity. It features both Gotye and Kimbra painted to blend in with the background, creating a unique and visually striking effect. The video has garnered millions of views on YouTube.
Inspiration: Gotye, whose real name is Wouter De Backer, wrote the song based on personal experiences. He has mentioned that the lyrics reflect the end of a relationship and the emotions that come with it.
Sampling: The distinctive xylophone-like melody in the song was created using a sample from the Brazilian song "Seville" by Luiz Bonfá. Gotye discovered this sample on a vinyl record and incorporated it into the track.
Chart Records: "Somebody That I Used to Know" spent eight consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, making it one of the longest-running number-one singles of 2012.
Cover Versions: The song inspired numerous cover versions and parodies on YouTube, showcasing its widespread cultural impact. Many artists and YouTubers put their own spin on the track.
Gotye's Breakthrough: While Gotye had been making music for years, "Somebody That I Used to Know" was the song that catapulted him to international stardom and established him as a prominent artist in the music industry.
Sampling Controversy: The song faced a legal dispute over its use of the "Seville" sample. The estate of Luiz Bonfá claimed that the sample was used without proper authorization. Eventually, a settlement was reached.
Cultural References: The song's catchy chorus and emotional lyrics have made it a staple in pop culture, with references and parodies appearing in various TV shows, movies, and advertisements.
These facts highlight the immense success and impact of "Somebody That I Used to Know" by Gotye and Kimbra in the world of music.