Video Drum Cover – Sia – Chandelier

“Chandelier” by Sia is a powerful anthem of vulnerability and resilience, released in 2014 as the lead single from her sixth studio album, 1000 Forms of Fear. The song, co-written by Sia and Jesse Shatkin, is a poignant exploration of addiction, self-destruction, and the yearning for freedom. It’s renowned for its soaring vocals and dramatic instrumentation, particularly the thundering drum beats that provide a dramatic backbone to the track.

The song was born out of a writing session where Sia and Shatkin initially worked on a piano-driven ballad. However, the direction shifted when Sia came up with the iconic opening lyric, “Party girls don’t get hurt.” Shatkin introduced a simple yet haunting keyboard loop and added layers of instrumentation, including the pulsating drumbeats that became central to the song’s dynamic energy. The drums, played with an almost primal intensity, mirror the emotional highs and lows of the lyrics. The rhythmic power amplifies the tension, especially in the explosive chorus, where the drums crash with an urgent, almost cathartic force.

“Chandelier” was produced in Los Angeles, with Greg Kurstin lending additional production and arrangement expertise. Shatkin’s drum programming and production fused electronic beats with live percussion elements, creating a rich, cinematic texture. The percussion underscores Sia’s raw and emotive vocal performance, capturing the chaotic energy of a night spiraling out of control. For fans of drumming, the track is a masterclass in balancing restraint and intensity, as the verses’ subdued percussion builds to the climactic crescendos.

The song debuted live on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in May 2014, where Sia delivered a striking performance with dancer Maddie Ziegler interpreting the song’s emotions through contemporary choreography. It became a central piece in Sia’s live shows, with the intense drumbeats setting the emotional tone for the performances. The track was also featured during her headlining set at Coachella in 2016, where the live drums added a visceral depth to the already electrifying song.

For drum enthusiasts, “Chandelier” is a testament to how percussion can elevate a song’s emotional impact. The intricate interplay of rhythm and melody showcases the art of using drums to convey intensity, making it a standout in contemporary pop music and an unforgettable listening experience.