One billion streams later, Avicii's “Hey Brother” continues to demonstrate the power of dance music to bridge divides.
The folk dance anthem, which the late EDM great released in October 2013 with bluegrass singer-songwriter Dan Tyminski, today eclipsed the elusive billion-stream mark on Spotify.
Banjo vibes weaved through pulsing synths, “Hey Brother” transcends genres and generations. A reminder that we are never truly alone, it is a universal rallying cry for those who have ever taken on burdens and sought a hand to hold as they navigate the uncertainties of life's “endless road.”
That promise is etched in its timeless melody and lyrics: “What if I'm far from home?” asks Tyminski, whose verses speak to the human experience of feeling adrift but clinging to the hope of finding understanding. “Oh brother, I will hear you calling,” she assures.
“Hey Brother” is the fifth song in Avicii's catalog to reach the billion streams mark following “Wake Me Up,” “The Nights,” “Waiting For Love” and “Without You.”
To celebrate the achievement, Avicii's estate has released an interview with Tyminski that was recorded alongside the singer's performance at last year's “Together For a Better Day” concert at the Avicii Arena. He talks about the story behind “Hey Brother,” which began after his teenage daughter jokingly threatened to run away if she didn't accept the offer to record with Avicii, his favorite artist.
“I fell in love with the song,” Tyminski recalls. “Immediately, as soon as I heard it… I don't think I'll ever get the chance to record something that's reached further into the corners of the earth than 'Hey Brother.'” “It was like lightning came from the sky and dropped this beautiful, incredible song.”
Watch Tyminski's interview below.
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