"Hurt Somebody" is a song by American singer-songwriter Noah Kahan, released on September 15, 2017, as the lead single from his extended play of the same name. The song was written by Kahan and Scott Harris in Nashville and was recorded with Joel Little in Los Angeles. Kahan told Billboard: "'Hurt Somebody' is about the paralyzing fear of not being able to cut loose ends – even if it's ultimately for the greater good. Ending things can be painful, and 'Hurt Somebody' illuminates the inner dialogue of trying to stomach the weight of that decision."
A duet version with American singer Julia Michaels was released on January 12, 2018.
Reception Nic Kelly from Project U said: "It has that instantly addictive feeling to it. It's simple, understated and melodically perfect."
Mitch Mosh from Atwood Magazine, in a review of the EP, wrote: "Originally released as a solo performance, Michaels' presence adds new perspective, harmony and vision to an already-intense song about the fear of cutting loose ends." It was featured in the 2018 movie The Darkest Minds.
Track listing
Personnel Personnel taken from Busyhead CD booklet.
Musicians Noah Kahan – vocals Julia Michaels – vocals Joel Little – acoustic guitar, bass, drum programming, keyboards, percussion
Technical Joel Little – production, recording (Golden Age) Sam de Jong – co-production, recording (Golden Age) Benjamin Rice – vocal production and recording (Conway) Scott Harris – additional vocal production Mark "Spike" Stent – mixing Michael Freeman – mixing assistance Greg Calbi – mastering Steve Fallone – mastering
Charts
Weekly charts +Weekly chart performance for "Hurt Somebody" Chart (2017–2018) Peak position Switzerland Airplay (Schweizer Hitparade) 14
Year-end charts +Year-end chart performance for "Hurt Somebody" Chart (2018) Position Australia (ARIA) 42 Netherlands (Dutch Top 40) 71 US Hot Rock Songs (Billboard) 65
Certifications
Release history +Release history and formats for "Hurt Somebody" Region Date Format Version Label Various September 16, 2017 Digital download, streaming SoloRepublic January 12, 2018 Duet version March 2, 2018 Duet version (Alex Adair remix)
References