The tune

"Rolling in the Deep" is a song by English singer-songwriter Adele, written by Adele Adkins and Paul Epworth, who also produced it. Released on 29 November 2010 as a digital download, it is the lead single and opening track of her second studio album, 21 (2011). Recorded in 2010 at Eastcote in London, it runs 3:48 and is in C minor at 105 BPM, with an open-fifth accompaniment over a C-G-B♭ progression. Adele described it as a "dark blues-y gospel disco tune". Reportedly composed by Epworth and Adele in a single afternoon after her breakup, the song was praised by critics for its production, lyrics and vocal performance. Rolling Stone described it as a breakup-mourning track that builds to a stomping, hand-clapping climax. It debuted at No. 2 in the UK and No. 68 on the Billboard Hot 100, and in May 2011 became Adele's first Hot 100 number one, holding the top spot for seven weeks. It won Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best Short Form Music Video at the 54th Annual Grammy Awards.

What the song is about

The lyrics describe the emotions of a scorned lover who sees the light, but for whom reconciliation is not an option. Adele said the song was her reaction to being told that her life would be boring and lonely, and that she wrote it as a defiant reply to that prediction. Epworth, who co-wrote the song, is credited with drawing out her voice during its making.