“Clarity” by Zedd (ft. Foxes)

Zedd’s “Clarity” is a highly-metaphorical song and accordingly, to some degree, complex in concept. It centers on what is apparently a romantic relationship between singer and addressee. 

And on the surface, we can say that their romance is a toxic one – or a “tragedy” as she puts it. But concerning the complexity of the situation, it’s also one whereas they are still compelled to remain together regardless. Or look at it like this. After having a serious “fight” for instance, they have no one to turn to for relief but each other. 

Or as stated in the chorus, the addressee is actually the vocalist’s “clarity”. So it’s as if he is both the biggest problem in her life as well as its greatest solution at the same time.

So at the end of the day, it doesn’t appear that the singer is going to actually leave this relationship. Or even if she does, by the looks of things she’ll eventually fall back into his arms anyway, as is the established mode. 

Indeed, none of this really makes sense to her. The only thing that is apparently ‘clear’ to the vocalist is that she’s in love – an emotion which in and of itself is ultimately inexplicable.

“Clarity” Facts

Primary Artist(s): Zedd
Featured Artist(s): Foxes
Album/EP: “Clarity” 

Was “Clarity” a single release?

Yes. Released on November 14 of 2012, it was the third single from the album of the same name.

Writing

It was written by:

• Zedd
• Porter Robinson
• Matthew Koma
• Holly Hafermann

Who produced “Clarity”?

Zedd produced it himself.

Genre(s)

• Progressive house
• Electro house

Awards/Honors

At the 56th Grammy Awards in 2014, the song was awarded “Best Dance Recording” after beating the following nominees in the category:

• Duke Dumont, A*M*E and MNEK’s “Need U (100%)”
• Calvin Harris and Florence Welch’s “Sweet Nothing”
• Kaskade’s “Atmosphere”
• Armin Van Buuren and Trevor Guthrie’s “This Is What It Feels Like”

Notable Usages

“Clarity” is featured in a music video game, “Dance Dance Revolution A20” by Konami.

The introduction video of “F1 2013” an auto race video game, featured the song as the background music.

The song was featured in episode 7 in season 1 of the series, “A Teacher”.

Chart Performance

• US (8)
• UK Dance (6)
• Australia (1)

Covers

• Mike Tompkins (2014)
• Madilyn Bailey ft. Clara C (2013)
• Faintlight ft. Foxes (2013)
• Evan Duffy (2013)
• Andy Lange (2013)
• Alex Goot (2013)