Heartbreak has never sounded so electrifying. On Somebody, a 2019 promotional single from Ava Max’s debut album Heaven & Hell, captures raw emotion wrapped in pulsating electropop beats. Released just before her high-energy performance on Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, the track immediately grabbed attention with its unfiltered opening line.
The song’s lyrics dive deep into the pain of a failed relationship, blending vulnerability with defiant energy. Its bold honesty resonated with fans, helping it climb to #35 on New Zealand’s Hot Singles chart. While not a mainstream smash, the track became a fan favorite for its relatable storytelling and addictive production.
This article explores why On Somebody stands out in Ava Max’s discography. From its cathartic lyrics to its shimmering synths, every element amplifies the emotional weight of moving on—but not without a fight.
Key Takeaways
- Released as a promotional single ahead of Ava Max’s 2020 album Heaven & Hell.
- Features a standout opening line about heartbreak’s harsh reality.
- Peaked at #35 on New Zealand’s Hot Singles chart.
- Blends electropop production with deeply personal lyrics.
- Showcases Ava Max’s ability to turn emotional pain into empowering anthems.
Introduction to “On Somebody” by Ava Max
Between the glittering synths and raw lyrics, On Somebody carves its own space in Ava Max’s discography. Released by Atlantic Records as a promotional single, it bridged her breakout hit Sweet but Psycho and the deeper themes of her debut album. The track teased fans ahead of her explosive Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve performance, blending modern electropop with an unexpected harpsichord motif.
Co-written with Lisa Scinta and Nate Cyphert, and produced by Cirkut and Jason Evigan, the song trades Max’s usual high-energy anthems for something darker. Its lyrics lay bare post-breakup struggles—swinging between hurt and defiance—while the production shimmers with icy precision.
This contrast makes On Somebody a relatable pivot in her music. Listeners craving catharsis found solace in its honesty, proving Max’s knack for turning pain into empowerment.
The Story and Inspiration Behind “On Somebody”
Few songs capture post-breakup chaos like this electrifying track. Co-written with Lisa Scinta and Nate Cyphert, the lyrics dive into universal heartbreak emotions—rage, denial, and reluctant healing. Producers Cirkut and Jason Evigan wrapped these raw feelings in icy synths, creating a stark contrast.
Background of the Song
Scinta and Cyphert focused on authenticity, drawing from personal experiences. The track’s narrative mirrors a breakup’s emotional rollercoaster. Lines like “I don’t wanna be on somebody new” scream unresolved attachment, a theme fans instantly connected with.
Lyrical Themes and Message
The lyrics shift from defiance to vulnerability. Max’s delivery—sharp yet wounded—turns pain into a dancefloor catharsis. Critics praised this balance, noting how the song’s intimacy feels broadly relatable.
Like other breakup anthems, it thrives on emotional honesty. To explore the meaning behind similar tracks, check out this analysis of timeless heartbreak songs.
Musical Composition and Production
Electropop meets baroque in this uniquely layered musical arrangement. The track’s production weaves icy synths with a haunting harpsichord riff, creating a tension that mirrors its lyrical heartbreak. Producers Cirkut and Jason Evigan masterfully blend these elements, making the music feel both futuristic and timeless.
Genre and Style
This isn’t your typical electropop anthem. The harpsichord adds a baroque flair, contrasting sharply with distorted vocals and pulsating basslines. It’s a daring mix—like a stormy night dressed in glitter.
Production Credits
Cirkut and Evigan amplified the song’s raw emotion with vocal effects that crackle with unresolved anger. Lisa Scinta’s lyrics ground the electronic chaos, ensuring every synth stab feels deeply personal. Fans can dissect these nuances on platforms like Apple Music, where the production’s layers shine.
Compared to Ava Max’s brighter hits, this track leans moodier. Yet, its bold experimentation showcases her range—proof that heartbreak can sound both shattered and stunning.
Reception and Chart Performance
Critics and fans alike couldn’t ignore the magnetic pull of this breakup anthem. Its blend of raw lyrics and polished production earned praise across music media, while its chart success hinted at Ava Max’s rising star power.
Critical Reception
Idolator’s Mike Nied called the chorus “relatable”, noting its standout place in her catalog. Paper Magazine highlighted the production’s “surprises”, like the harpsichord riff, which kept listeners hooked. Soundigest’s India McCarty dissected how Max “details a relationship” with lyrical precision, calling it a masterclass in emotional storytelling.
Chart Success
The track peaked at #35 on the NZ Hot Singles chart, a notable feat for a promotional single. This momentum mirrored her global rise, proving her ability to turn niche appeal into broader recognition. Fans rallied around the song, cementing its status as a cult favorite before her album dropped.
“The production twists make heartbreak sound exhilarating.”
Its performance wasn’t just about numbers—it showcased a growing fanbase hungry for her unfiltered take on pop music.
Why “On Somebody” Resonates with Listeners
Fans instantly connected with its unfiltered emotions. The official video heightens the drama, using stark visuals to mirror the song’s tension. Shadows and neon lights reflect the push-pull of post-breakup limbo.
Co-writer Lisa Scinta helped craft lyrics that feel ripped from a late-night confessional. Lines like “I don’t wanna be on somebody new” capture rebound anxiety with brutal honesty.
Electropop beats turn heartache into something danceable. The production’s glittering synths make heavy emotions feel lighter, proving Ava Max’s gift for blending club energy with psychological depth. It’s no wonder the track remains a fan favorite—raw, relatable, and impossible to forget.
FAQ
What is the meaning behind "On Somebody"?
The song explores themes of love, obsession, and emotional dependency, capturing the intense feelings of being consumed by someone else’s presence.
Who wrote and produced "On Somebody"?
Ava Max co-wrote the track with Lisa Scinta and other collaborators, while production was handled by top industry producers known for their pop expertise.
What genre does "On Somebody" belong to?
It’s a pop anthem with infectious hooks and a danceable beat, blending modern production with Ava Max’s signature vocal style.
How did "On Somebody" perform on music charts?
The song gained traction on platforms like Apple Music and received positive reviews, though its chart success varied by region.
What inspired Ava Max to create this song?
While she hasn’t revealed specifics, the lyrics suggest personal experiences with passionate, all-encompassing relationships.
Where can I watch the official music video?
The video is available on Ava Max’s official YouTube channel and streaming platforms like Apple Music.
Are there any remixes or alternate versions?
As of now, the original version remains the primary release, but live performances sometimes feature unique arrangements.
