Track-by-Track Break Down of "Fireflies" with Adam Young of Owl City

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 ต.ค. 2024
  • Adam Young of Owl City breaks down the RIAA certified diamond single "Fireflies" and dissects his song track-by-track discussing the writing, production, and editing of this hit single.
    Discover more new music at owlcitymusic.com
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ความคิดเห็น • 1.9K

  • @mrjeeveswilliams
    @mrjeeveswilliams ปีที่แล้ว +4876

    Adam breaking down Fireflies is an historic moment. It’s like Leonardo da Vinci coming back to life and explaining how he painted the Mona Lisa.

    • @bhaveshtochabbra6853
      @bhaveshtochabbra6853 ปีที่แล้ว +43

      For real right?

    • @gabrielgoma2954
      @gabrielgoma2954 ปีที่แล้ว +42

      A true masterpiece

    • @Hootowlsonly
      @Hootowlsonly ปีที่แล้ว +16

      F a c t s

    • @trevor246
      @trevor246 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      I was kinda thinking the same thing haha

    • @JosephRam23
      @JosephRam23 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Fr man this masterpiece impacted my childhood so much 😂

  • @largefatherbassmusic
    @largefatherbassmusic ปีที่แล้ว +32

    Adam talking about "a bad note" makes me giggle thinking about how the track was secretly jazz all along.

  • @Dom_Rec
    @Dom_Rec ปีที่แล้ว +1526

    The fact that Adam Young produced and created a diamond single in his bed room is probably one of the most inspiring stories I've heard, Adam truly is and inspiration to all producers out there

    • @CosmicDomino
      @CosmicDomino ปีที่แล้ว +42

      And in his parents house no less

    • @CosmicDomino
      @CosmicDomino ปีที่แล้ว

      @@PeterBrunone idk

    • @cleverhardy5230
      @cleverhardy5230 ปีที่แล้ว +21

      These days, anyone can produce music in their own bedroom. All they need is the talent and the necessary software.

    • @protecttomato5180
      @protecttomato5180 ปีที่แล้ว +30

      @@cleverhardy5230 adam young in his days using only mac laptop and slow mbps internet speed.

    • @nick15684
      @nick15684 ปีที่แล้ว +41

      @@protecttomato5180 True, back in those days that was way less common than it is now, and the technology was still pretty new at the time.

  • @wozeyszn
    @wozeyszn ปีที่แล้ว +608

    man those violins and cellos playing together had me tearing up...this song encapsulates my youth and I'm sure millions of others around the world will feel that too it really is the soundtrack of a generation. Fireflies will always be nothing short of an everlasting masterpiece, so thankyou Adam!

    • @STILLProductionsNL
      @STILLProductionsNL ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Had the same experience, great song and so wonderfull to have it's creator explain about the whole proces verry inspiring! Thank you Adam

    • @Algardraug
      @Algardraug ปีที่แล้ว +7

      The very same for me. I don't know why but I just got so emotional

    • @Threshroge
      @Threshroge ปีที่แล้ว +3

      remixx.......the song IS REVIVING!! LOOK ITS COMING OUT OF THE GRAVE AND IT LOOKS DIFFERENT!!! LIKE A ZOMBIE!

    • @chdplayzyt03
      @chdplayzyt03 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Yeah, it was soo beautiful. That one part could be a good piece of music all on its own, but it has so much more which makes it so much more of a masterpiece

  • @RoomieOfficial
    @RoomieOfficial ปีที่แล้ว +2077

    super cool! iconic! thanks adam

    • @lukelouis4080
      @lukelouis4080 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      Whaaat

    • @lukelouis4080
      @lukelouis4080 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Hey man why is no one commenting

    • @lukelouis4080
      @lukelouis4080 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Btw Im also a music producer and I like your videos Roomie, have a nice day bro

    • @48cxy2
      @48cxy2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Yo! Roomie!

    • @lukelouis4080
      @lukelouis4080 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yo yoomie

  • @AURofficial
    @AURofficial ปีที่แล้ว +16

    That strings section with the Cellos is MWAH!

  • @BenjaminNaman
    @BenjaminNaman ปีที่แล้ว +110

    2:56 I never realized how much I needed an orchestral version of this song.

    • @YungstarProd
      @YungstarProd ปีที่แล้ว +7

      My new ringtone.

    • @chhanez
      @chhanez 12 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Ngl it feels so angelic it made me tear up a lil bit😭

  • @Cinder-Soft
    @Cinder-Soft ปีที่แล้ว +347

    did not realize just how massive and intricate this song's construction actually was. always seems so simple on the receiving end. iconic song from a legendary artist, thank you for this

    • @lepythagore3288
      @lepythagore3288 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Production is legitimately very textured

    • @drmedwuast
      @drmedwuast ปีที่แล้ว +12

      exactly! Also the fact that the end product doesn't feel cluttered at all in spite of so much going on

    • @mikosoft
      @mikosoft ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Intricate is probably not the right word but layered, that is it.

  • @16dragons
    @16dragons ปีที่แล้ว +813

    As a young producer, this is potentially the coolest thing I’ve seen in a long time. Owl City revealing some of his production? And he uses LOGIC? I’m loving this. I’ve had so many questions about how his music is made and it makes production a lot less intimidating, seeing how human Adam Young is - even with his magical music.

    • @JesseScott2016
      @JesseScott2016 ปีที่แล้ว +33

      He also started out using FL Studio

    • @jaywwild
      @jaywwild ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Exactly my thoughts! Makes me feel confident about my limited Logic knowledge 😂

    • @dakotastedman2211
      @dakotastedman2211 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      @@JesseScott2016 pretty sure he actually started on Reason, not FL

    • @yogurtyearner
      @yogurtyearner ปีที่แล้ว +27

      he also has a video on a random channel just called Adam Young of him showing how he layers his percussive samples that's really cool. it shows specifically how he did Shackleton from the Scores project

    • @CosmicDomino
      @CosmicDomino ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@dakotastedman2211 no, I believe he said he started with FL on his blog a long time ago, but he definitely was using Reason by the time Owl City was created. Fireflies was done in Reason 4 I believe.

  • @chad4503
    @chad4503 ปีที่แล้ว +646

    Whether you're an Owl City fan or not, this song is just HISTORIC. There's no way around that. It's amazing how much time, energy, work, and love he put into just this one song. And all this because of insomnia! It's such a great reminder of how even our infirmities and insecurities can become something beautiful if we let them.

    • @72702
      @72702 ปีที่แล้ว

      If their a fan how would they get this

    • @violahero4life
      @violahero4life ปีที่แล้ว

      @@72702 ???

    • @72702
      @72702 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@violahero4life how did they get the what looks to be original stems if they are a fan channel

    • @BasedHyperborean
      @BasedHyperborean ปีที่แล้ว

      "Historic"
      🤦🏻‍♂ y'all mfs make me fuckin' tired

    • @72702
      @72702 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@BasedHyperborean to be fair this was a pretty big song

  • @PaperSkies
    @PaperSkies ปีที่แล้ว +105

    I'd like to make myself believeeee, that this uplooooad, issss realllll

    • @dani-demand
      @dani-demand ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I can only hear it being said in your voice 😂

    • @Laekomusic
      @Laekomusic ปีที่แล้ว +5

      We need a PS remix of Fireflies! Would work so well with your style man!

    • @manumusicmist
      @manumusicmist ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We need a color bass remix of fireflies!

  • @lm14000
    @lm14000 ปีที่แล้ว +120

    the “wrong” note doesn’t sound wrong at all!! the dissonance it creates helps the song a lot more than it hurts!

  • @utsubasa4043
    @utsubasa4043 ปีที่แล้ว +273

    The fact that he remembered every detail, and even the laugh that he put into the song which is barely noticeable throughout listening to the song itself, shows how much heart he’s poured into the making of the song, and how it’s 100% an original song

  • @Hypixi
    @Hypixi ปีที่แล้ว +366

    is no one gonna mention how absolutely beautiful that string section sounds?

    • @adrianohartmann8004
      @adrianohartmann8004 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Yeah for sure, simply a master piece.

    • @xkatttt
      @xkatttt ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Just gorgeous!

    • @slurpee4203
      @slurpee4203 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

      it’s better than sex, it’s literally so good

    • @ileannnn
      @ileannnn 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      ​@@slurpee4203ayy yoo 😂

    • @slurpee4203
      @slurpee4203 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      @@ileannnn LOLLL

  • @music1864me
    @music1864me ปีที่แล้ว +460

    I love how every “mistake” he lists blends into one of the most beautiful and memorable songs of our generation. I think every part of it is beautiful and there’s no ugly or mistakes or mess. It’s a beautiful symphony of emotions being poured out. It got me through so many hard times and I remember every lyric and every note, no matter how long it’s been since I’ve heard it. Thank you, Adam, for giving us not only Fireflies but all the other songs that bring poetry and beauty into this messy reality we call life. It’s a lovely place, but I wouldn’t want to live here without Owl City ❤

    • @Erik_Ochoa013
      @Erik_Ochoa013 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      In the words of Bob Ross: "We don't make mistakes, just happy little accidents."

    • @Mikas_Emil
      @Mikas_Emil ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Beautifully written

    • @maddietourmaline46
      @maddietourmaline46 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      It's honestly a good antidote to the perfectionism impulse to get a reminder like this once in a while

    • @elith6930
      @elith6930 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@maddietourmaline46 giving me “trying to feel alive vibes” (by Porter Robinson)

  • @thiswillnotdo6027
    @thiswillnotdo6027 ปีที่แล้ว +127

    I wish artists would do track break downs like this more often, its so helpful for aspiring producers and songwriters

    • @petermen_2005
      @petermen_2005 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      AJR does something similar to this, but with more videos

    • @neon.laser.84
      @neon.laser.84 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Not many artists produce their own instrumentals, Calvin Harris does videos like this sometimes.

  • @ProGamerDudepgd
    @ProGamerDudepgd ปีที่แล้ว +81

    hands down the most magical song ever made. Thank you for creating this master piece

  • @cavernousmind53
    @cavernousmind53 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    4:23 That piano line is so uplifting. It makes me feel like I'm flying, just like a firefly :)

  • @NotsewTheGreat
    @NotsewTheGreat ปีที่แล้ว +142

    You don't realize how much effort Adam puts into every song
    I love the story he has behind this song it's so cool

  • @rometherevenant8749
    @rometherevenant8749 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    The piano and strings section are seriously magical. Gives so much life to the song.

  • @GreatnationHD
    @GreatnationHD ปีที่แล้ว +183

    After so many years, never did I imagine you’d do a breakdown or a “behind the song” for Fireflies. I don’t listen to it much but I know how much it means to alot of people, including Adam himself. Amazing, amazing stuff!!

    • @ytramsmp
      @ytramsmp ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Been a fan since 2011 after listening to youtopia. Imo it's a good thing that he's underrated.

  • @DavidDiMuzio
    @DavidDiMuzio ปีที่แล้ว +2

    😮 …this just made the internet way cooler ✨🎶🤘🏼

  • @chingpepito8123
    @chingpepito8123 ปีที่แล้ว +326

    Got teary eyed especially from 5:19 onwards. It's so surreal! It's so amazing to hear the layers of the song. Thank you Adam for this! Thank you for making a comeback. All of us HootOwls are soooo happy!

    • @KabirHimself
      @KabirHimself ปีที่แล้ว +7

      This is the essense our real self!! Our soul ✨✨

    • @kindalost2495
      @kindalost2495 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Was about to comment the same thing... It's way too magical, like a dreamy adventure.. i need an hour version

    • @GrahamFeatherston
      @GrahamFeatherston ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I think you mean misty eyed. :)

    • @PeterBrunone
      @PeterBrunone ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@GrahamFeatherston Farewell.

    • @benjamin.kelley
      @benjamin.kelley ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Don't you mean "misty eyed" haha

  • @mikewolf5367
    @mikewolf5367 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    What’s crazy is that the intro countermelody is so iconic that that alone makes you immediately think of this song

  • @davidgenerato
    @davidgenerato ปีที่แล้ว +112

    A song that singlehandedly got me into music production, broken down piece-by-piece, YEARS LATER. Thank you, Adam. YOU ARE A BLESSING! :D

    • @davidgenerato
      @davidgenerato ปีที่แล้ว

      also quick question: Can you tell us what patch did you use for the "Atlantis" one? I kept looking for it in Reason but I can't find it XD

    • @ho-leesheet5923
      @ho-leesheet5923 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      For a sec i read you name as David getta

  • @UXXV
    @UXXV ปีที่แล้ว +20

    The cello part is incredible. The whole thing is of course. One of my all time faves.

  • @2katkitty
    @2katkitty ปีที่แล้ว +76

    The Little Song That Could. It seems so simple, but all those amazing layers and, yes, your laugh, never taking yourself too seriously. Fireflies will always bring joy to those of us who love your music. Congratulations, Adam!! ❤❤🦉🏙❤❤

    • @therealngian
      @therealngian ปีที่แล้ว +4

      The Little Song That Could describes it so perfectly

  • @EncryptedOS
    @EncryptedOS ปีที่แล้ว +105

    It’s astounding how each layer seems so simple by itself, yet paired with its companions, forms this heavenly, complex tune.

    • @BasedHyperborean
      @BasedHyperborean ปีที่แล้ว +1

      yeah imagine that, songs working like songs!

  • @br1ck.
    @br1ck. ปีที่แล้ว +203

    I REALLY hope Adam writes a book about his life and journey. From 21 year old in his parents basement in Minnesota, to number one record and touring the world. And how his struggle with insomnia led to Owl City as a project and of course Fireflies. (and the many other cool things and lessons learned that transpired then and till now) I really think it’s an amazing, magical, story that people everywhere can connect with. Everyone knows fireflies, but so few know Adam’s story, and I think it’s a story that needs told in Adam’s unique style of storytelling. When he does, it’s been my dream to adapt it as a screenplay and work on a movie about his life. I’d call it, “Hello Seattle: The Story of Adam Young” or, for wider recognition and far more likely, “Fireflies: The Story of Owl City” I have so many ideas and concepts to translate his imagination to the screen, that have come to mind since I was a kid. I really hope he considers writing a book someday soon.

    • @froimig
      @froimig ปีที่แล้ว +2

      If this happens I'm buying it

    • @GorgonDrageil
      @GorgonDrageil ปีที่แล้ว +3

      It sounds like you're ready to write the book. Maybe there's someway you could do some rough drafts and pitch it to him or his team.

    • @br1ck.
      @br1ck. ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@GorgonDrageil While I’d love to write the biography, it would be based on the limited information parsed from articles and interviews. To faithfully tell his story I’d need access to ask questions, to fill in the gaps with more information.

    • @JediJess1
      @JediJess1 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Dude! I got goosebumps reading your first name for a screenplay.
      Tell me, what can we do to help you chase this?

    • @wahyung9669
      @wahyung9669 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I had no idea, though he just like owls, so much that Adam wish he was in a city full of owls. Now i twigg, Owl City is related to his Insomnia, what do see active at night? I was never that wise old owl, how fitting. Though it's all conjecture, I could be the class clown end up in Jester City.

  • @ThinkingGreyMusic
    @ThinkingGreyMusic ปีที่แล้ว +28

    The string section is pretty much perfectly composed, but the difference it makes to record actual strings as opposed to using samples is unreal. Beautiful.

  • @sleepyfrank6359
    @sleepyfrank6359 ปีที่แล้ว +84

    I do a thing where i listen to a song countless times and after alot of repeats i suddenly start to hear the ghost notes and all the other notes that were drowing in the musical marinade and i love those moments. Fireflies is one of those songs I've heard so many times that I keep hearing those hidden notes and it's beautiful. I've heard it so much that I myself started adding some notes that go along with the song, that's why i love it so much, it's become a somewhat personal song and seeing Adam break down everything in here, hearing all those notes rise from the marinade, idk, it just feels good. I appreciate the video,

    • @KaizuoSilva
      @KaizuoSilva ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Same, I Even only listen only the right or left on headphones to hear even more subtle stuff.

    • @louisa7058
      @louisa7058 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Omg same!!!🥰

  • @FelixWheatfield
    @FelixWheatfield 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Love that all these 2000's/2010's artists are coming forward and breaking down their music "Classic Albums" style. Now that they're iconic, these songs deserve it.

  • @thesalamanderking3475
    @thesalamanderking3475 ปีที่แล้ว +220

    I’ve been telling people about the hidden laugh for years and they never believe me. I’m so happy to know the story behind it now!
    You should make more videos like these. They are awesome.

    • @casualcaptor
      @casualcaptor ปีที่แล้ว +11

      I always held that part so close to my heart

    • @ashleyberkowitz8772
      @ashleyberkowitz8772 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I grew up with this song. It was my childhood, and I only discovered it about a few months ago. I'm glad a video just came out explaining it, and I'm glad others noticed it.

    • @jasonchou7289
      @jasonchou7289 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Where?When?I still can't hear....

  • @jamesdavid6985
    @jamesdavid6985 ปีที่แล้ว +43

    I spent my entire teenage years listening to the entire Owl City discography. Hearing all the elements that make fireflies, I can almost identify which of them got incorporated his other songs. Watching this video, I just get so emotional. Because every time I listened to Owl City, I would immediately feel happier, no matter the circumstance. You really got me through such a tumultuous time in my life Adam. Thanks for everything.

    • @vinzaputra
      @vinzaputra ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Tooootaly, Thera are so many hits from him in this era, would love to hear more breakdown and story behind his songs

  • @YoongieBearz
    @YoongieBearz ปีที่แล้ว +26

    PLEASE DO MORE OF THESE ADAM!! ESPECIALLY YOUR OLDER TRACKS FROM MAYBE IM DREAMING!

  • @selinnazsur2328
    @selinnazsur2328 ปีที่แล้ว +50

    Fireflies is my introduction to Adam's music. Sang it in front of an audience back in high school, playing the role of a famous diva in an end-of-the-year play 😂. I didn't expect to see commentary on it from him at all but this is a very pleasant surprise ✨❤️

    • @selinnazsur2328
      @selinnazsur2328 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Also I was practically obsessed with this song when I first listened to it, and boy did some of these sounds in this breakdown fly over my head... It's even more magical and beautiful than I thought! ❤️
      Edit: That guitar to me is not ugly, but dirty and grunge in the best way! 😂

    • @daunv1965
      @daunv1965 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      My daughter played that song for me. My 1st intro to adam

    • @daveninava
      @daveninava 25 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      ​​​@@selinnazsur2328
      Also My Mum Introduce Me To Adam Music And It Was Of June, Maybe Im Dreaming When I Was A Baby
      And I Remember Loving Thoes Album All lot And I Was Thinking His Music Is Connected To The Aesthetic Of That Time Now Khow Frutiger Aero
      And Now I Am Thinking It, It Still Does Connected To That Aesthetic All lot So Much
      And Then This Song Came Out In 2009 And I Remember Back Then I Heard This In A Mall For The First Time, That Is Went I Start To Loving This Song So much that I Never Have Felt before
      Until To Today I Still Love His Music And This Song All lot
      Thank you Adam for all this and I appreciate for All it

  • @JackAllpikeMusic
    @JackAllpikeMusic ปีที่แล้ว +15

    As a musician myself, seeing how this song from my childhood was put together was incredibly inspiring. Thanks Adam.

  • @petergunner1091
    @petergunner1091 ปีที่แล้ว +46

    Almost unreal to witness a modern masterpiece such as Fireflies finally be broke down, this song really did change the game in its dream-like quality. Dad introduced me to it as a kid, and I experienced every related piece of work. All Things Bright And Beautiful is one of my most memorable album experiences, bus rides were never the same.

  • @dyso_rashid
    @dyso_rashid ปีที่แล้ว +1

    still listening to this masterpiece

  • @Clearwick
    @Clearwick ปีที่แล้ว +52

    If there is something I can say about Owl City it's that all of his music takes me out of this reality. Everything from Lucid Dream, to Take it all Away, to Thunderstuck, to Fireflies. It's so powerful and moving everytime even when he tries to have fun 💕 I love it all

    • @PeterBrunone
      @PeterBrunone ปีที่แล้ว +1

      When he's having fun, the love shows through.

  • @CyberCubiful
    @CyberCubiful 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

    I would seriously pay good money for more videos like this by Adam, giving in-depth behind-the-scenes explanations of how his songs are made. Be it a TH-cam series with a Patreon, or some other model.
    His songs have always had a special feeling for me that no other music can match. I work in digital visual art for a living, but digital audio art baffles me. I would love to gain the vocabulary to understand and express what I love about it, and maybe learn how to find more like it, or even eventually make my own audio art.
    ETA: Technicolor Phase or Hello Seattle would be great to learn about, FWIW

    • @the_rdrksh
      @the_rdrksh 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Have you checked out the one sample, four producers series by andrew huang? If you love watching the breakdowns, you'd surely love that series, specially the video where Au5 creates a whole track out of just a fucking door sound. In another one, virtual riot turns a piano sample into a dubstep banger.

  • @nancybryon8596
    @nancybryon8596 ปีที่แล้ว +174

    Magic cannot be planned, or scored, or even predicted. Even the "mistakes" in a track are part of the grand design. Now that I hear the "glitch" in the organ track I love your song even more. I've been using LOGIC since it was emagic, so it is inspiring to know you did all this on this platform. You are an amazing writer, producer, artist, and deserve more attention than even this. "There's No Such Thing As Luck". Thank you for your music, Kayte Bryon

    • @damienlobb85
      @damienlobb85 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      He actually made this in Reason. The stems have been imported into Logic (which he now uses). It's less the tool and more what you do with it. You would be surprised what can actually come to your mind, when you're given less to work with. Adam made a lot of his sounds himself which is awesome.

  • @zsand
    @zsand ปีที่แล้ว +2

    20 now but I used to listen to this song all the time while playing habbo hotel like over a decade ago now! thanks for the breakdown :)

  • @Theseus.
    @Theseus. ปีที่แล้ว +67

    In the night sky, stars align,
    _"Fireflies"_ flicker, a celestial sign,
    _"Hello Seattle"_ echoes through the air,
    As dreams take flight, without a care
    _"Umbrella Beach"_ offers shelter,
    From the storm we all go through,
    _"When Can I See You Again"_ we hum,
    As the waves crash, a soothing drum
    _"Galaxies"_ swirl above,
    _"Alligator Sky"_ a sight to behold,
    _"Shooting Star"_ a wish we make,
    With _"Verge"_ as the path we take
    _"Dreams Don't Turn to Dust"_ we sing,
    As the stars shine on,
    While _"Thunderstruck"_ shakes the earth,
    And _"Silhouettes"_ dance in the heads
    So let us _"Be Brave"_ and hold on tight,
    Together we'll conquer _"The Tip of the Iceberg"_ in sight,
    With Adam Young's songs as our guide,
    Our dreams will forever abide.

  • @EngineeringWizard11
    @EngineeringWizard11 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    So much attention to detail and beauty hidden in this song. Truly a work of art in itself. You are a great artist to care so much for the smaller things that add up into one of the most iconic songs of my life. I've liked this track deeply since the first time I heard it.

  • @XER0GRAVITY
    @XER0GRAVITY ปีที่แล้ว +16

    Words can’t describe how timeless this song is, even after 14 years. The world has changed a lot since then

  • @iamNathanGreen
    @iamNathanGreen ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Man this is an iconic song, one of my all time favs, and I love the fact you wrote and produced it completely by yourself! I think in popmusic there isn't enough recognition towards artists that are actually really talented writers and producers, instead of just singers like so many other artists.

  • @wade_says
    @wade_says ปีที่แล้ว +25

    I’ll never forget buying the album in 2009 and hearing this for the first time. I’ve been with you since the beginning and am thankful for your music, Adam.

  • @richardboothby5694
    @richardboothby5694 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Whoah I have only just come across this breakdown. Thanks Adam for going through the process of construction. Such an iconic track - oh and don't worry about the dissonant note on the organ we all still love the track and if you hadn't mentioned it we'd be no wiser 😄 So many layers for such a deceptively simple track in - playback in any case, I really love the pads. I always enjoy all your music - keep it up Sir and thanks. Very special memories for me.😎

  • @Kimichicha
    @Kimichicha ปีที่แล้ว +28

    I didn't realize how much this break down would mean to me

  • @lashtal
    @lashtal ปีที่แล้ว +20

    I love pieces that have those "one-offs", you only hear it once. It could've gone on another several measures, or for the entire song, but what makes it so sweet... it just happens that one time. Want to hear it again? REPLAY! :)

  • @TechbrixTV
    @TechbrixTV ปีที่แล้ว +42

    That laugh at 5:13 was so unexpected. Thank you for crating this masterpiece Adam! We have all cherished it and will continue to do so!

  • @user-mx1kh9gg8p
    @user-mx1kh9gg8p 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Its a so beautiful song! Thank u for composing this song its an enrichment for the world 🌍 and for the beginning of the 21century!

  • @IamDiamondEyes
    @IamDiamondEyes ปีที่แล้ว +8

    The way you are still so humbled & full of warmth throughout all these years is awe inspiring Adam, incredible respect & admiration.

  • @hyyer430
    @hyyer430 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +14

    the laugh at 5:14 is my favorite part of the song. it's such a subtle detail but brings the whole thing together. and you're telling me it was completely unintentional? 😭 God works in mysterious ways for sure.

  • @fiveoneecho
    @fiveoneecho ปีที่แล้ว +4

    2:57 - the arrangement of those strings is what first pulled me in. There is some incredible composition and arrangement on Ocean Eyes, even if the masters don’t quite hold up on all the songs today.

  • @HarleyKita
    @HarleyKita 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    This song meshes so many beautiful sounds. Thank you for breaking them down for us. This song deserved all the hype it got.

  • @CheeseyStudios
    @CheeseyStudios ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Even though I've never written anything myself, this was absolutely fascinating to learn more about. Thank you for sharing!

  • @cowboyfoodie9551
    @cowboyfoodie9551 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    this song will never die. Amazing to see the process

  • @collin3012
    @collin3012 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    This song sends me straight back to middle school. Thank you for sharing how it was made. It's even more special now :)

  • @SSLtogether
    @SSLtogether 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Every sound I hear from fireflies is the calm and relaxation I get from you, your song is like the picture I need when I feel down

  • @Kurtdog63
    @Kurtdog63 ปีที่แล้ว +177

    Musician, singer, and songwriter here. This is just one of those songs that comes along and sticks in people's heads. Very simple melody, but really a very complex and vast array of sounds and rhythms mixed in. Musical genius reaching to levels of sound selection, sound tweaking, and sound tone creation. Most listeners don't really understand all the science that goes in to these musical creations, and really don't have to know, to enjoy and appreciate the end product. I have a family member that suffers from insomnia. May be some other underlying issues to check on that may be causing that. Silver lining: You certainly put your time during lack of sleep to good use. Thanks for sharing your gift with the world. For those that much is given, much is expected...

    • @lundsweden
      @lundsweden ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Yeah, even though I make music myself, I had no idea about the amount of complexity in this song. I just knew it sounded good. Super interesting to have the track tear down though!

    • @lmaolol7702
      @lmaolol7702 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@lundsweden really? i was surprised how simple it was. not that that's a bad thing of course

    • @Bittamin
      @Bittamin ปีที่แล้ว

      @@lmaolol7702if you want to be very surprised by simple music I’ve been making house tracks with barely anything being used. Gonna post another one today, inside of the iOS garage band to show the different bounced stems I used to make it

  • @YoungFraggle
    @YoungFraggle 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    You are so fucking crazy talented it blows my mind, so cool to watch you break down this track I've loved since I was an actual child!

  • @officialloutom
    @officialloutom ปีที่แล้ว +11

    This whole break down just explained even more, why I love this song so much. All of the different elements, like the "ugly" guitar, the busy drums, the piano, the synths, the bass, ... all of these are just my favourite sounds to listen to in all of my favourite songs. And Fireflies just combines all of it.
    Thank you for this break down. I now love the song even more. I got chills so many times listening to this.

  • @mello3791
    @mello3791 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Adam adding a clip of his own laugh after making a mistake in the song is the most delightfully wholesome, Bob-Ross thing I’ve ever heard. What a legend.

  • @TheK391
    @TheK391 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    cool insights

  • @Andromulus
    @Andromulus ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Bro this song always makes me hella emotional and i can't quite place why. Amazing breakdown from such an inspiring artist

  • @belennavarrotorres
    @belennavarrotorres ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I just can not thank Adam enough for sharing this "behind the scene". This song mean so much for me as it really is part of a crucial moment of my life, and being able to understand what it is happening through the entire track is MAGIC. Thank you so much, looking forward to hearing your new songs. Long life Owl City and it's citizens!

  • @TheProducerSchool
    @TheProducerSchool ปีที่แล้ว

    Legendary song! Amazing to see how it was made

  • @gavinpilato6035
    @gavinpilato6035 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    I'd LOVE to see more breakdowns, especially from Ocean Eyes songs because there are so many amazing details and hidden sounds!!

  • @lundsweden
    @lundsweden ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great track, I remember hearing it on the radio everywhere around 2010 (still hear it quite a lot!). Loved the song the first time I heard it, still love it!

  • @aranyak1881
    @aranyak1881 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    The cellos and violins gave me goosebumps, so good

  • @tickmothy
    @tickmothy 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I remember first hearing this on the radio a long time ago and loved it the second I heard it. I love hearing these break downs of songs.

  • @MadsBoje
    @MadsBoje ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I love that while there's so many layers, even when you break it down like this, it has this dreamy recognizable sound to all of it.

  • @ecbclikkie06
    @ecbclikkie06 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    this song was my childhood! It's so fun to see all of the hidden layers all these years later.

  • @Austin989891080p
    @Austin989891080p ปีที่แล้ว +18

    I first heard fireflies in 2009 on the radio on my way to see the northern lights in KY. I was 14 at the time and fell in love with the song instantly. I got my Zune HD for Christmas that year also and purchased the digital copy of "Ocean Eyes" on the Zune Marketplace. This is my favorite album of all time to this day and i'm now 28 years old.

    • @daveninava
      @daveninava 25 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Yeah
      I First Heard fireflies In 2009 In A Mall With My Mom In Kl Here And that Time I was like 3 years old
      because I was born 2005
      And I Remember I fell in love With This Song Instantly All lot. After that the album Ocean Eyes Came Out And I Listen The full Album On MySpace And After That It Became One Of My Favour Album Ever
      And That Is Went I Started my TH-cam
      Channel In 2010 and I Started To Talk about Music, Movies and Culture Afterward
      And Years Later I Went and Listen To This One In My Library in Kuching back in 2018
      And After that a Year later I Listen to This One again In 2020 March when i was going back to kl in a Whole Airport Trip And trying to live here from the covid 19 virus
      To this day this It Will be One Of My Favorite Album Of All Time Ever
      Now I Am 19 years old
      Thank for adam to inspire me to become a Music Artist And TH-camrs That I Am Today
      Thanks for him for us anyways

  • @quantuminfinity4260
    @quantuminfinity4260 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for the breakdown, I’ve always been curious about the potential different meanings and a breakdown of the melody!

  • @nextfuturesongs
    @nextfuturesongs ปีที่แล้ว +31

    Adam, I don't know if you're reading this, but I just want you to know that this video made my week, if not my whole year.
    I've been trying to slowly get into electronic music production, been recovering from a breakup, just a lot going on in my life and in my head and your music, especially around this era of your music, got me through several weeks and this video just feels like a gift from God 😂 honestly it does.
    I love your music, but I also love you as a person. I was just on a long walk by myself at night and I decided I wanted to listen to your voice, so I searched up Adam Young interviews, and stumbled across this. It was incredible to listen to because I've heard fireflies hundreds of times, and hearing you break it down in ways that I, as an aspiring producer, understood, was just so fascinating but also so relaxing at the same time. Hearing you talk just makes me feel like I'm going to be okay
    Thank you dude.

  • @nicroveda
    @nicroveda ปีที่แล้ว

    this was beautiful what a timeless track

  • @Pukie2000
    @Pukie2000 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    Every single one of these tracks give me goosebumps and wow that cello... really making me tear up as i sip my coffee at 430 in the afternoon. Owl City was and is my childhood and the only thing i alw come back to all the time. Thank you Adam for making such beautiful music. I'm so so so glad you're back :")

    • @jillianbuckley5570
      @jillianbuckley5570 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm glad I'm not the only one who was so emotionally moved by that cello :') It's gorgeous!

  • @ddwefresh
    @ddwefresh 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Always so inspirational and cool to see the behind the scenes of my favorite songs

  • @osmangazi6564
    @osmangazi6564 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I used to listen to it 100 times a day when I was 16. Thank you owl city.

    • @homesiiick
      @homesiiick ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I listen to it everyday the lyrics are really inspiring

  • @MasettiPF
    @MasettiPF ปีที่แล้ว +1

    One of my favorite songs from one of my favorite artists. Your music is filled with hope!

  • @MarkMonolithOfficial
    @MarkMonolithOfficial ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Thank you for the break down Adam. Firefllies is such an incredible song. The sounds, tones, and production is incredible I hope you are doing well

  • @deveyous6614
    @deveyous6614 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Probably the best modern song ever made and up there with the greats of history!

  • @slavojdyrdek
    @slavojdyrdek ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I was an angry young man when this song came out and I hated it back then. I was metal only, no weak shit. But it got in my head and lived there for a while, little melodies popping up every so often. As I grew and learned and moved towards the man I am today, learning more about music and production, this song was always there, influencing me without me realizing, keeping me connected to who I was, helping me towards who I was to be.
    This song is a masterpiece. The sound is massive, everything is so clean. And his story of the song itself playing a joke on everyone, as if it were a living, breathing little being (it may as well be) is just precious to me.
    I have always carried this song within me and I always will. Its my generation's "Don't Stop Believing." Thank you for this video. Pulling back the curtain like this is the most intimate and vulnerable thing an artist can do aside from baring themselves so openly in their art and putting it out there.

  • @Erik_Ochoa013
    @Erik_Ochoa013 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Those first synth notes ring an entire musical generation! Thanks for the memories Adam! 👍

  • @AlexBallMusic
    @AlexBallMusic ปีที่แล้ว

    Really interesting to get a glimpse inside, it's perfectly arranged. Thank you.

  • @silntlightning
    @silntlightning ปีที่แล้ว +15

    5:48-7:48 I actually appreciate this part so much... I'm too scared to share my songs because I'm afraid of doing something wrong that I wouldn't be able to correct anymore once it's been released out into the world. But this part shows me that a song doesn't need to be perfect-that a song can still be amazing even with a wrong note. Thank you for this Adam. Maybe I'll be confident enough to release my songs sometime...

    • @KAK_PAN
      @KAK_PAN ปีที่แล้ว

      I mean, that's a part of our life too. A mistake. We can't live with no mistake. There's always any mistake. Did you release it? I want to hear, if you may. 🥰

    • @youngredpill5014
      @youngredpill5014 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      That wrong note Adam Evolved and Given birth to a Whole new Genre which is the Kawaii Future Bass you'll hear it more often... Thank You Adam For this Wonderful God Given Song

  • @drewhailstones4106
    @drewhailstones4106 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    my older brother introduced me to your music almost 10 years ago. He played Fireflies. A couple o years later i got a Bluetooth speaker for Christmas and my sister put 72 songs on. Almost all of them were owl city. Now years later, I've grown up and almost finished with my studies, that speaker had kicked the bucket about 2 years ago but i still listen to Owl City on my laptop. Thank you Adam Young for the memories you gave me. I will cherish them forever.
    PS. I practically jumped for joy when i saw that you were back.

  • @hassetjimenez
    @hassetjimenez ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Man! As an upcoming producer and mixing engineer, this breakdown shows how much love and effort you put on this song and it's so good to see that love going back to you. This song made me get more interested on sound design and where to place every sound in the mix. Really grateful for this and all your art. ❤️ Greetings from Panama 🇵🇦

  • @cindylou2429
    @cindylou2429 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I love Adam's speaking voice! So peaceful and gentle. Very soothing. Thank you for this!!!!

  • @Ry3Music
    @Ry3Music ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Back when I was a kid in 2009 my dad showed me fireflies and my life changed forever. It was the first time I truly felt a strong emotional connection to a piece of music in my life. I decided to explore electronic music further and now for the past 12+ years I've been making new music friends, learned to play the viola, discovered my passion for writing my own music in Ableton (going for almost 5 years now), and I am now at university studying music and sound recording for production. You changed my life and so many countless others. We cannot thank you enough for the impact you had on this world.

  • @danielcenteno8741
    @danielcenteno8741 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This an absolutely treasure of a video, about an absolute treasure of a song. Thank you so much for uploading!

  • @FluffyPupperArt
    @FluffyPupperArt ปีที่แล้ว +8

    This song has helped me through so much (as many owl city songs have) and to hear all the layers singlehandedly has me mesmerized! It's absolutely magical!! Adam is the absolute GOAT!!! Thankyou so much for your music and congratulations on that diamond certificate!! Well well deserved!!! Thankyou so much for being a big part of my life!!!

  • @DaveG207
    @DaveG207 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just loving this. I’ve played synths for (too big a number) years and Adam has a really distinctive style. Hearing just how intricately layered the piece is - wonderful!

  • @CatherineLHaws
    @CatherineLHaws ปีที่แล้ว +15

    My smile kept growing and growing throughout this video, and that part about the cello notes made me tear up for some reason. Thank you for sharing this with us. I curled up in a chair with my laptop to focus on listening to this, and it felt like sharing tea with a buddy at midnight listening to a new poem.
    Thanks for everything you've given us

  • @rahultirmale938
    @rahultirmale938 3 วันที่ผ่านมา

    This is pure magic! Thanks for giving the world this legendary song.

  • @mintyou8348
    @mintyou8348 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Congratulations on RIAA Diamonds for Fireflies!
    The song will always become my comfort home music wherever my music taste change or wander

  • @shanemharris
    @shanemharris ปีที่แล้ว +8

    As someone who self produces metal music in my bedroom, there was so much to learn from Adam reviewing his stems. I am blown away by the immense attention to layering, and classical arrangement techniques he used on the chorus rhythms. I am in awe. Any songwriter needs to take notes on the details Adam uses within 'Fireflies'