Format Digital download Length 3:54 | Recorded 2015 Label Island
Safehouse | |
Released March 25, 2016 (2016-03-25) Writer(s) Robin Fredriksson
Mattias Larsson
Julia Michaels
Justin Tranter
Tove Nilsson | ||
"Close" is a song recorded by American singer Nick Jonas from his third studio album, Last Year Was Complicated. The track features guest vocals from Swedish singer Tove Lo. It was released on March 25, 2016, by Island, Safehouse and Republic Records as the album's lead single. The song was written by Robin Fredriksson, Mattias Larsson, Julia Michaels, Justin Tranter, and Tove Lo.
Contents
Background
During a Twitter session, Jonas explained that the track is "about how I literally can't open up and be vulnerable with someone". The melody of the song was released over the days before the release of the song, through several tweets.
Critical reception
James Grebey of Spin magazine called "Close" a "sultry" track and deeply personal . Brittany Spanos of Rolling Stone called the song a sexy, steel-drum assisted single. Stephen Erlewine of AllMusic wrote a positive review saying "'Close,' a duet with Tove Lo, is perhaps the best showcase for this aspect of Nick Jonas, but the entirety of Last Year Was Complicated walks a fine line between immaculately produced pop confection and personal confession."
Live performance
Jonas performed the song live with Tove Lo on Saturday Night Live on April 16, 2016. On April 24, 2016 he performed the song during his 75-minute set at the New Orleans Jazz Fest. He performed the song with Thomas Rhett and Daniella Bradbery for an episode of CMT Crossroads. On April 28, Jonas and Tove Lo performed the song on Jimmy Kimmel Live!. Jonas performed the song solo on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on May 9, 2016. He and Tove Lo performed "Close" live on May 22, 2016 at the 2016 Billboard Music Awards. On June 10 he performed the song live on Today. Jonas performed the song as a part of his setlist for the Future Now Tour with Demi Lovato singing Lo's lyrics.
Cover versions
Conor Maynard performed a mash-up of "Close" with "King" by Years & Years.
Music video
The music video was released the same day as the single. The video depicts both singers unable to physically touch each other as they are continuously pulled away from the other. As their clothes are ripped away, the pair is able to finally get close. The more vulnerable the pair get, the closer they are able to get. The video was directed by Tim Erem.
Track listing
- "Close" (Louis Vivet Remix) – 3:28
- "Close" (Dan E Radio Remix) – 3:44