Bon Iver
"Skinny Love" is an acclaimed song by American musician Justin Vernon, released under his project Bon Iver. It first appeared on the 2007 debut album For Emma, Forever Ago and is widely recognized for its raw emotion, minimalist arrangement, and poignant lyrics.
Key Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Artist | Bon Iver (Justin Vernon) |
| Album | For Emma, Forever Ago |
| Released | 2007 (album); April 28, 2008 (UK single) |
| Length | 3:59 |
| Genre | Indie folk, singer-songwriter |
| Writer | Justin Vernon |
| Notable Cover | Birdy (2011) |
Musical Style
- Features haunting vocals, fingerpicked guitar, and sparse percussion.
- The production is lo-fi, matching the intimate and confessional style.
- The song stands out for its repeated phrases and impactful dynamics throughout.
Background and Meaning
- Often considered a breakup song, "Skinny Love" is inspired not just by a single relationship but by the emotional period Vernon experienced—exploring themes of need, codependency, and vulnerability.
- Vernon has explained that the “skinny” in the title refers to being in a relationship for the wrong reasons, describing a “skinny” or fragile form of love.wikipedia.org
- Widely interpreted as an anthem of heartbreak and longing.
Lyrics Snapshot
Come on skinny love just last the year
Pour a little salt we were never here
My, my, my, my, my, my, my, my
Staring at the sink of blood and crushed veneer
The refrain and lyrics emphasize emotional struggle and the hope for mending or release.
Impact and Legacy
- "Skinny Love" quickly became an indie classic, praised by critics for its honesty and emotional intensity.
- The track has been widely featured in TV series, films, and talent competitions worldwide.
- Vernon’s performance of "Skinny Love" on major TV shows and its frequent selection as a centerpiece at live performances cemented its cultural presence.wikipedia.org
- The song later gained further popularity through British musician Birdy’s 2011 piano-driven cover, which introduced the song to a new generation of listeners.wikipedia.org
Chart Performance & Certifications
| Country | Peak Position | Certification |
|---|---|---|
| Denmark | #32 | Platinum (90,000 units) |
| Portugal | #18 | – |
| UK | #88 | Platinum (600,000 units) |
| US | – | 2× Platinum (2,000,000 units) |
| Australia | #20 (Hitseekers) | – |
| New Zealand | – | 2× Platinum (60,000 units) |
| Italy | – | Gold (25,000 units) |
| Spain | – | Gold (30,000 units) |
In Popular Culture
- Used memorably in television, including Grey’s Anatomy and Chuck.
- The Birdy version has also been used in The Vampire Diaries and other series.
"Skinny Love" remains a landmark work in indie folk, revered for its emotional vulnerability and simplicity, and continues to resonate with listeners globally through both its original and cover versions.wikipedia.org+1
