Avicii ‘Wake Me Up’ turns 11: A timeless dance anthem

“Wake Me Up,” the iconic track by Swedish DJ and producer Avicii, celebrated its 11th anniversary on June 17, 2024. Released in 2013 as the lead single from his debut studio album “True,” this song marked a significant turning point in the music industry. Written by Avicii, Mike Einziger, and Aloe Blacc, who also provided the soulful vocals, “Wake Me Up” became an instant hit, far above electronic music.

Avicii first introduced “Wake Me Up” live at the Ultra Music Festival in Miami. The performance, which featured a live band including Blacc and Einziger, initially confused and even angered some fans of the electronic dance music community. However, the song’s experimental fusion of EDM with folk elements soon won over critics and audiences worldwide, propelling it to commercial success.

The Impact on Electronic Dance Music

Throughout the 2013 festival season, “Wake Me Up” became a staple in Avicii‘s sets, featuring prominently at major events like EDC Las Vegas, Tomorrowland, and Creamfields. Variance Magazine aptly described it as a “summer anthem,” a label that resonated with its widespread popularity. Its success was not just limited to live performances; the track topped charts across Europe and performed exceptionally well globally.

In an interview, Avicii recounted the song’s creation, highlighting a collaborative effort with Einziger from Incubus and the serendipitous involvement of Aloe Blacc. Blacc‘s contribution, especially his poignant lyrics inspired by his travels, gave the song its memorable depth. Although the initial release did not credit Blacc, his role was crucial. He later released an acoustic version of the track, further showcasing its versatility.

By 2023, “Wake Me Up” had achieved over 2 billion streams on Spotify and received Diamond certification, underscoring its lasting impact. This milestone reflects the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to transcend the boundaries of genres, making it a timeless classic in the realm of dance music. As we celebrate its 11th anniversary, “Wake Me Up” continues to resonate, reminding us of Avicii‘s genius and his transformative influence on modern music.