Billie Eilish & Justin Bieber, Bad Guy | Track Review

Breakout teen alt-pop artist Billie Eilish taps Grammy-winning pop sensation Justin Bieber for an unnecessary remix of one of 2019’s best songs, “Bad Guy.”

“So, you’re a tough guy / Like it really rough guy / Just can’t get enough guy / Chest always so puffed guy / I’m that bad type / Make your mama sad type/ Make your girlfriend mad tight / Might seduce your dad type / I’m the bad guy…” The minimalist “Bad Guy” serves as the first full-length record on When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?, the compelling debut album by alternative teen artist Billie Eilish.  When We All Fall Asleep… appears as the second best album of 2019 (so far), and has a legit argument as the album to beat.

Focusing initially on the original version of “Bad Guy,” Eilish sings in an undertone.  She’s calm, cool, and collected, flaunting off her distinct approach and sound.  Adding to the intrigue of the listening experience are a unique palette of vocal effects, as well as an air of mysteriousness. “Bad Guy” thrives because of its infectious groove, catchy chorus (excerpted above), and a fun, if dark, playful style.  The production by FINNEAS – Eilish’s bro and a fantastic artist in his own right – is definitely worth noting. All of this remains the case on the remix featuring Grammy-winning pop superstar, Justin Bieber.

Bieber arrives for the second verse on the remixed version of arguably the best song of 2019.  Like Eilish, he keeps it ‘calm, cool, and collected,’ but Eilish is much better suited for this song, sans him – 100. He’s true to self, showing off his boyish vocal tone. He sings the chorus that follows his verse, also providing some ad-libs at the beginning and during both the bridge and outro.

Final Thoughts 

Did Billie Eilish need Justin Bieber for “Bad Guy?” Absolutely not – didn’t we mention this was arguably the best song of 2019 already? But it’s a bonus… I guess. It doesn’t supersede the original, but it’s a harmless supplement.  Did I mention that Eilish didn’t need Bieber already?

Billie Eilish & Justin Bieber • Bad Guy [Single] • Darkroom / Interscope • Release: 7.12.19

Photo Credits: Darkroom / Interscope