Wouter “Wally” De Backer makes music under the name Gotye. He grew up in Melbourne, Australia, where he learned to play different musical instruments. He started making music in his bedroom, mixing sounds and creating unique audio combinations.
His music has won many awards worldwide, including three Grammy Awards in 2013. The song “Somebody That I Used to Know” topped the charts in more than 20 countries. His creative approach to making music has made him well-known among fans and other musicians.
About the Song
“Somebody That I Used to Know” is a song about a failed relationship and its aftermath.
The track blends a simple xylophone melody with strong emotional lyrics about two former partners. The song became widely popular in 2011 and 2012, connecting with listeners through its honest take on breakups.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | July 5, 2011 |
| Album | Making Mirrors |
| Writers | Gotye, Luiz Bonfá & Kimbra |
| Producers | Gotye |
Somebody That I Used To Know Lyrics by Gotye
Verse 1: Gotye
Now and then, I think of when we were together
Like when you said you felt so happy, you could die
I told myself that you were right for me
But felt so lonely in your company
But that was love and it’s an ache I still remember
Verse 2: Gotye
You can get addicted to a certain kind of sadness
Like resignation to the end, always the end
So when we found that we could not make sense
Well, you said that we would still be friends
But I’ll admit that I was glad it was over
Chorus: Gotye
But you didn’t have to cut me off
Make out like it never happened and that we were nothing
And I don’t even need your love
But you treat me like a stranger and that feels so rough
No, you didn’t have to stoop so low
Have your friends collect your records and then change your number
I guess that I don’t need that, though
Now you’re just somebody that I used to know
Now you’re just somebody that I used to know
Now you’re just somebody that I used to know
Verse 3: Kimbra
Now and then, I think of all the times you screwed me over
But had me believing it was always something that I’d done
But I don’t wanna live that way
Reading into every word you say
You said that you could let it go
And I wouldn’t catch you hung up on somebody that you used to know
Chorus: Gotye
But you didn’t have to cut me off
Make out like it never happened and that we were nothing (Ah)
And I don’t even need your love (Ooh)
But you treat me like a stranger and that feels so rough (Ah)
No, you didn’t have to stoop so low (Ooh)
Have your friends collect your records and then change your number (Ah)
I guess that I don’t need that, though (Ooh)
Now you’re just somebody that I used to know
Outro: Gotye, Gotye & Kimbra
Somebody (I used to know)
Somebody (Now you’re just somebody that I used to know)
Somebody (I used to know)
Somebody (Now you’re just somebody that I used to know)
(I used to know)
(That I used to know)
(I used to know)
Somebody
Live Performances of Somebody That I Used To Know
1. Somebody That I Used To Know Live at Northcote Social Club (22 Jun 2020)
2. Somebody That I Used To Know Live on KCRW (16 Nov 2011)
Similar Songs Like Somebody That I Used To Know
Here are some of Gotye’s songs that share musical or thematic elements with “Somebody That I Used to Know”:
- “Eyes Wide Open” – A track with similar emotional depth that talks about social and environmental concerns. The song uses layered sounds and builds up to a strong finish.
- “Easy Way Out” – Features the same kind of attention-grabbing sound shifts and personal lyrics. Its mixed sounds and steady beat make it stand out.
- “State of the Art” – Shows off Gotye’s skill with mixing different sounds. This song talks about technology and music, using a vocoder effect for the vocals.
- “Coming Back” – A song with strong emotions that builds up slowly. The track has a mix of electronic and traditional instruments, much like his famous hit.
- “Making Mirrors” – The title track from the same album as his big hit. It has a similar production style and thoughtful lyrics about self-reflection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Story Behind the Song Somebody That I Used to Know?
The song tells a true story of Gotye’s past relationship. It shares both sides of a breakup, with Kimbra singing the ex-partner’s point of view.
Why Did Gotye Quit?
Gotye didn’t quit music. He shifted focus to his band, The Basics, and other projects. He continued making music but chose not to release it under the Gotye name.
Who is the Original Singer of Somebody I Used to Know?
Gotye (Wouter De Backer) wrote and performed the song originally in 2011, featuring Kimbra as the female vocalist.
Was Somebody That I Used to Know Made It in 1988?
No, Gotye released the song in 2011 on his album “Making Mirrors.” And it became a worldwide hit in 2011 right away.
