13 Chemical and Chemistry Driven Songs | Playlist

13 Chemical and Chemistry Driven Songs features music courtesy of Billie Eilish, Bryce Fox, Matte Sounds, Miley Cyrus, and Post Malone.

Ah, the beauty of science   ! Specifically, on the 12^th musical compendium on The Musical Hype in 2024, we explore chemicals and chemistry. That’s right, prepare to nerd out with us on 13 Chemical and Chemistry Driven Songs! Okay, okay, we don’t nerd out too much, as we keep things surface level when it comes to the chemicals and chemistry, not to mention sometimes, the chemistry is non-scientific.  Anyways, 13 Chemical and Chemistry Driven Songs features music courtesy of Billie Eilish, Bryce Fox, Matte Sounds, Miley Cyrus, and Post Malone among others. So, without further ado, let’s dive into these 13 Chemical and Chemistry Driven Songs! It’s giving music science!

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1. Post Malone, “Chemical”  

Austin • Mercury / Republic • 2023 

“Oxytocin makin’ it all okay / When I come back down, it doesn’t feel the same.” Woo! It’s a certain drug, Post Malone – a drug called LOVE.  On “Chemical”, the Grammy-nominated rapper/singer/songwriter appears to be addicted… to a relationship.  Things are NOT going swimmingly, yet on this pop/rock record, there appears to be no end in sight regarding the union.  Vocally, he serves up respectable performance. As always, that signature vibrato rears its head early on in the first verse as well as in the chorus. Speaking of the chorus, it serves as the centerpiece, and by far, the most memorable lyrics of the single:  

“Outside of the party, smokin’ in the car with you  

‘Seven Nation Army,’ fightin’ at the bar with you  

Tell you that I’m sorry, tell me what I gotta do  

‘Cause I can’t let go, it’s chemical   

No, I can’t let go, it’s chemical.”   

Woo! Way to bring The White Stripes in! Even beyond the chorus, it is clear that he can’t quit her: “Every time I’m ready to make a change / You turn around and fuck out all my brains.” Ah, makeup sex – it can go a long way, even in a toxic relationship.  Beyond the theme and lyrics, the music itself is worth mentioning. Again, Post embraces the pop/rock sound, arguably doubling down on it compared to the past. All in all, it works.  He produced “Chemical” alongside Louis Bell and watt, a winning team for sure. All told, “Chemical” is enjoyable. 

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2. Kelly Clarkson, “chemistry”  

chemistry • Kelly Clarkson / Atlantic • 2023

“I can’t help but want you, help but love you / Help me, someone erase my heart.” On “chemistry,” the sixth track from chemistry, the tenth album by Grammy-winning pop artist, Kelly Clarkson, she avoids him. “I’ve been broken into, how’d you get in here? / Now you’re somethin’ that I just can’t resist.” Who does Kelly avoid, or attempt to avoid, exactly? Her ex. Again, why? She’s still in love with him, at least to some extent.  While Clarkson tries to pretend she’s no longer feeling him, “I close my eyes and I’m right back fallin’.” Oh, snap! Ultimately, this scientific number does a fine job of capturing the aftermath of a relationship where it is impossible not to still have feelings for the person. 

 

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3. Matte Sounds, “Chemistry”  

“chemistry” • Matte Sounds • 2023

“Chemistry,” in the hands of Matte Sounds is brief. How brief? < two minutes in duration, brief.  Even so, Matte Sounds is succinct regarding the chemistry between him and her.  “You got some problems know it’s easy to see / Know when you touch me it gets harder to leave,” he sings expressively, adding, “Easy to focus on you girl cuz you’re all that I need / My heart was frozen ‘til you brought in the heat.” Yup, they have that chemmie going on!  Contributing to this magnetic connection is the sensual backdrop, led by smooth, luscious electric guitar. Additionally, keys and bass anchor this late 2023 scientific joint.

 

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4. Billie Eilish, “Oxytocin”  

Happier Than Ever • Darkroom / Interscope • 2021

The production work throughout Happier Than Ever, the 2021 sophomore album by Grammy-winning alternative pop artist, Billie Eilish, is epic. Among the most ear-catching backdrops comes on the minimalistic, rhythmic “Oxytocin.”  The moment I heard “Oxytocin,” I knew it sounded like nothing else I’ve heard this year. Besides the marvelous instrumental, Eilish is on autopilot with her playful vocals chocked-full of personality.  The suggestiveness – the sexual innuendo – is turned up to the nth degree.  Lyrically, she’s sharp, yielding numerous memorable moments: “If you only pray on Sunday, could you come my way on Monday? / ‘Cause I like to do things God doesn’t approve of if She saw us.”  

  

What is the significance of oxytocin itself? Technically, per the National Library of Medicine:   

Oxytocin is a cyclic nonapeptide hormone with amino acid sequence CYIQNCPLG that also acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain; the principal uterine-contracting and milk-ejecting hormone of the posterior pituitary.

Woo, that’s a lot.  According to the Cleveland Clinic, in simpler terms:  

Oxytocin is a natural hormone that stimulates uterine contractions in childbirth and lactation after childbirth. It also affects aspects of human behavior and the male and female reproductive systems.

That oxytocin is something else!   

 

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5. Bryce Fox, “Chemicals”  

“Chemicals” • Foxy Boom Boom Inc. / Nettwerk Music Group • 2023 

“Living on chemicals / Praying for miracles / It’s hard to make it feel right / When everybody’s looking for a fight.” Have truer words ever been spoken? Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and producer Bryce Fox penned his brief but potent song, “Chemicals”, alongside David Pramik and Kevin Hissink (Boonn). Pramik and Boonn produce the record, which commences with enigmatic vibes from the onset. Furthermore, “Chemicals” maintains the enigma throughout its brief duration. The strong production cues, incorporating electronic elements alongside a rock foundation, help fuel the fire of Fox.  The drums and groove mark one of the biggest selling points of “Chemicals.” Of course, the biggest selling point is Fox, who delivers confident, expressive, and strong vocals.  “We been out our fucking mind / We can’t see we’re going blind,” he asserts. The songwriting is solid, particularly moments like, “Holy euphoria tease me to sleep / String me along by the powers that be.” Notably, in the second verse, Fox breaks into more of a melodic rap vibe, while maintaining the sanctity of rock – pretty cool.  Of course, the crème de la crème is the memorable, tuneful chorus: “Living on chemicals (oh-oh, oh, oh, oh) / Praying for miracles (oh-oh, oh, oh, oh).”  All in all, Bryce Fox brings the heat on “Chemicals”.     

 

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6. Miley Cyrus, “Violet Chemistry”  

Endless Summer Vacation • Smiley Miley, Inc. / Columbia • 2023

“When the floor is wet / And the lights come on, but you don’t wanna leave / And your phone is lost / But the car’s outside waitin’ out on the street.” Ooh-wee! “Violet Chemistry” appears on the back half of Endless Summer Vacation, the Grammy-nominated, 2023 album by Miley Cyrus. Yes, “Flowers” is the dominant, ubiquitous record, but “Violet Chemistry” brings some heat too. The record commences with hazy sounding synths at the onset, setting an enigmatic tone.  Soon enough, the beat kicks in, with Cyrus singing a rhythmic, ear-catching melody, with the above-mentioned lyrics. 

Even with clear stability, during the verses, this violet chemistry still leaves us with musical questions.  The harmonic scheme for example, ends up being starkly different from the chorus, expectedly, the most accessible section of the song. With successive listens, more of the magic – more of the chemistry – shines in the verses, much like the chorus. “Stay awhile, stay awhile with me,” Cyrus sings, continuing, “Stay awhile, don’t deny the violet chemistry.” Fo’ sho’. Throughout the course of the record, the production work (Mike WiLL Made-It, Jesse Shatkin, Maxx Morando, and Max Taylor-Sheppard) is slick – synths, beats, and the vocal effects/production. The bridge marks another contrast, separating itself from the chorus and verses.  There’s a kick ass beat switch, and a robust bass line, not to mention the unique tune and lyrics Cyrus serves up (“Fingers start to dance along the figures and the shapes / Mixing all the colors like we’re making a Monet”). Clearly, the chemistry – love and sex – is legit on “Violet Chemistry”.

Appears in :  

• Miley Cyrus, Violet Chemistry: Bangerz N Bopz No. 2 (2024) 

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7. SG Lewis, “Chemicals” 

Chemicals • PMR / Universal Music Operations Limited • 2021 

“Chemicals” has a strong case for the crowning achievement of Times, the debut album by British DJ, producer, singer, and songwriter SG Lewis. “Chemicals” is incredibly assertive – that beat is overt and in your face.  Notably, Lewis produces alongside Julian Bunetta, as well as Chad Hugo (The Neptunes).  That’s a team right there! In addition to the beat, the canvas, which Lewis paints with his own bright, sexy vocals, is quite splashy – picturesque to the nth degree.   The chorus is absolutely epic!

“But if you stay 

We could always blame it on the chemicals 

I might be seein’ double, but I need you both 

Might be seein’ double but I need you both.”   

Appears in :  

• Chemicals: 3BOPS no. 18 (2021) 

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8. Lana Del Rey, “Chemtrails Over The Country Club”  

Chemtrails Over The Country Club • Lana Del Rey / Universal Music Operations Limited • 2021 

“I’m on the run with you, my sweet love / There’s nothing wrong contemplating God / Under the chemtrails over the country club.” Lana Del Rey dropped the fabulous “Chemtrails Over the Country Club” in advance of her 2021 LP, also titled, Chemtrails Over the Country Club. Like many Del Rey songs, “Chemtrails” doesn’t spare length, running four-and-a-half minutes.  The good news is that this a well-rounded, enjoyable record that’s clearly worth the time. It was penned by Del Rey and Jack Antonoff with both producing.  From a songwriting perspective, the results are quite intriguing – poetically-penned with numerous allusions.  Of course, the best moment arrives from the jump, with Lana singing in her signature vocal style on the chorus (excerpted above). “Chemtrails…” is certainly a vibe. The cool energy served up is nothing short of awesome.  The same can be said of the vocal production, which is spot-on.  Initially, accompanied only by piano, more instruments enter the gradually, including guitar and drums, filling things out nicely. After singing initially in her lower register on the chorus, Del Rey ascends into her gorgeous, rich upper register, showing her vocal versality. Interestingly, the jam-packed “Chemtrails Over the Country Club” concludes with just a drum groove for an expanded period.  All in all, a fine record.

Appears in :  

• Awesome Songs: January 2021  
• Country: 5ive Songs No. 95 (2021)  

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9. Beck, “Chemical” 

Hyperspace •  Capitol •  2019 

Much of the synth-heavy Hyperspace, 14th studio album by Grammy winning musician Beck, finds him collaborating with Pharrell Williams including the song at hand, “Chemical.” This ballad fuses R&B, alternative pop, and singer/songwriter.  It’s pretty sweet when you can blend acoustic and electronic elements as soundly as Beck and Pharrell do here. Notably, “Chemical” features an ornate backdrop.  Also, in the context of Hyperspace, like preceding songs, this is a tuneful number, with the chorus leading the charge: “I’m so high / Love is a chemical / Start it, start it again.” Beyond the chorus, there is a terrific bridge, followed by two additional verses (a total of four), and a high-flying, can’t miss outro.  “Chemical” is arguably the song to beat on Hyperspace. 

Appears in :  

• Chemicals: 3BOPS no. 18 (2021) 

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10. Zee Machine, “Brainchemistry”  

Brainchemistry (EP) • ZEE MACHINE • 2018

Brainchemistry (2018) marked the debut EP from California pop artist ZEE MACHINE. “Brainchemistry,” the spirited, minor-key title track finds the artist asserting he can’t change the way he is wired.  How is he wired exactly? Well, he’s gay, and nothing that anybody says is going to change that. Sounds sensible. This is a fast-paced, ‘out and proud’ anthem, and NOTHING is gonna kill his vibe. ZEE MACHINE doesn’t seem to give “Two Fux” what anybody thinks about him. While ZEEMACHINE doesn’t offer specific research or scientific-based evidence on “Brainchemistry,” the song has a fair amount of associations with science.  First of all, there’s a field of study of which ‘brain chemistry’ comes into play, called neurochemistry. A chemical imbalance in the brain changes things – understatement.  Regarding the homosexual component of “Brainchemistry,” there has been research, one such study highlighted by Live Science: Is Homosexuality Based on a Brain Chemical?. Fascinating stuff! 

 

Appears in :  

• 13 Totally Captivating Songs That Reference Science (2019) 
• A Compendium Comprised of 100 Notable LGBTQ+  Songs (2020) 

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11. Watsky, “Chemical Angel” 

x Infinity • Steel Wool / EMPIRE • 2016  

On “Chemical Angel,” from the 2016 album, x Infinity, rapper/slam poet Watsky tackles abstaining… from prescription pills of course! “My doctor says I’m being reckless (reckless) / That quitting’s risky for my health (and I’ll fuck up my life real bad).” Here, he claims that the medicine prescribed for his epilepsy affects him as a person. Watsky would rather take the risks associated with not taking his medicine.  That’s a real conundrum, isn’t it?  So, ask yourself this question: is this chemical really angelic or devilish?

Appears in :  

• Chemicals: 3BOPS no. 18 (2021) 
• 18 Songs About Angels & All Things Angelic (2018) 

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12. David Guetta & Sia, “Titanium”   

Nothing but the Beat • What A Music Ltd. / Parlophone Music France • 2011   

“You shoot me down, but I won’t fall.” Why, won’t you fall, Sia? Three words: “I am titanium.” Now that’s a flex right there! Furthermore, the lyrics Sia sings are encouraging, inspiring, and uplifting. Grammy-winning French DJ/producer David Guetta and Sia collaborated on “Titanium”, a surefire bop from Guetta’s 2011 album, Nothing but the Beat.  This empowered, feel-good song was penned by Guetta and Sia alongside AFROJACK and Giorgio Tuinfort. Guetta produces alongside AFROJACK and Tuinfort, creating an energetic, picturesque backdrop.  As for Sia, she does her thing on this multiplatinum, no. 7 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.    

  

For Sia, the adversity is incredibly loud! Even so, “I’m criticized, but all your bullets ricochet / You shoot me down, but I get up.” Now that some true fortitude! Similarly, in the second verse, she sings, “Raise your voice, sticks and stones may break my bones / Talking loud, not saying much.” Despite everything, in the pre-chorus, she admits, “Nothing to lose /… Ricochet, you take your aim / Fire away, fire away.” Of course, the result is that Sia is ATOMIC NUMBER 22… TITANIUM, baby ! The lift ️ of the lyrics, production, and Sia’s distinct, powerful vocals is legit on “Titanium”.    

Appears in :   

• 10 Songs Associated with the Periodic Table of Elements (2018)  
• David Guetta & Sia, Titanium: Music Lifts No. 61 (2023)  
• Incredible Songs: 2010s, Vol. 2 (2023)  

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13. Arcade Fire, “Chemistry” 

Everything Now • Columbia • 2017 

“I got the money, and I got the time / I got a secret, gonna make you mine.” Oh brother! Chemistry, the scientific discipline, would be considered complex if you were to take a poll.  That said, the “Chemistry” that’s in the hands of Win Butler and Arcade Fire seems surface level to say the least.  Need the proof? That excerpted lyric from the first verse is surefire proof, PERIOD. In the context of their 2017 LP Everything Now, “Chemistry” is groovy and sounds distinct of the songs preceding it if nothing else. There’s some charm, but, there’s also that lack of depth. No, Butler and company aren’t expected to be cerebral ‘song in and song out’, but anybody could pass this chemistry course.  The record is certainly fueled by repetition.  The chorus is a perfect example: 

“Chemistry (Chemistry)  

Chemistry (Chemistry)  

You and me, we’ve got (Chemistry)  

Chemistry.”  

Appears in :  

• 13 Totally Captivating Songs That Reference Science (2019) 

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13 Chemical and Chemistry Driven Songs (2024) [: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Atlantic, Capitol, Columbia, Darkroom, EMPIRE, Foxy Boom Boom Inc., Interscope, Kelly Clarkson, Lana Del Rey, Matte Sounds, Mercury, Nettwerk Music Group, Parlophone Music France, PMR, Republic, Smiley Miley Inc., Steel Wool, Universal Music Operations Limited, What A Music Ltd., ZEE MACHINE; 4339272, Clker-Free-Vector-Images, OpenClipart-Vectors, PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay]

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