“Here” by Alessia Cara is the breakout single that catapulted the Canadian singer-songwriter into the spotlight. Released in 2015 as part of her debut album Know-It-All, the track quickly resonated with listeners, especially those who, like Alessia, have found themselves at a party wondering why they even showed up. The song debuted at number 95 on the Billboard Hot 100 but steadily climbed the charts, eventually peaking at number 5. It was also certified triple Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), solidifying Alessia Cara’s status as a new voice to watch.
The track was co-written by Alessia herself, along with Sebastian Kole and producers Pop & Oak (Warren Felder and Andrew Wansel), blending elements of R&B, soul, and alternative pop. Interestingly, “Here” samples “Ike’s Rap II” by Isaac Hayes — a track famously used by Portishead in their hit “Glory Box” — giving it a vintage, moody vibe that complements its introspective lyrics.
History of Alessia Cara
Alessia Cara, born Alessia Caracciolo in Brampton, Ontario, began her musical journey by posting acoustic covers of popular songs on YouTube. Her raw talent and unique voice caught the attention of Def Jam Recordings, leading to her signing with the label at just 18 years old.
“Here” was inspired by a real-life experience Alessia had at a party she didn’t want to be at. In interviews, she’s openly shared how she felt out of place, surrounded by strangers engaging in small talk — an atmosphere that felt alien to her introverted personality. The song captures that discomfort perfectly, flipping the typical party anthem on its head by giving a voice to those who’d rather be anywhere else.
The authenticity of Alessia’s lyrics struck a chord with a generation tired of pretending to enjoy social situations just to fit in. This honesty, combined with her soulful voice, made “Here” an instant classic for introverts and overthinkers alike.
On the Videoclip
The music video for “Here” was directed by Aaron A, a Canadian director known for his work with emerging artists. The video perfectly captures the essence of the song, featuring Alessia standing still and emotionless at a house party while the camera moves in slow motion around her.
The visuals mirror the lyrics — people dancing, drinking, and chatting in the background while Alessia remains distant and disconnected. The choice of muted colors and hazy cinematography creates a dreamlike atmosphere, reinforcing the idea of being physically present but mentally absent.
No high-energy choreography or flashy effects — just raw, relatable storytelling. It’s an artistic approach that resonated deeply with Alessia’s growing fanbase.
Talk Nerdy to Me
Let’s break down the music theory behind “Here”!
- Key and Chord Progression: The song is written in the key of F Minor, which gives it that somber, brooding feel. The chord progression — Fm – Db – Ab — loops throughout, creating a hypnotic, moody backdrop.
- Tempo: The song sits at a slow 55 BPM (beats per minute), which adds to its laid-back, almost sulky vibe.
- Melodic Structure: Alessia’s vocal delivery combines both spoken-word and melodic lines, giving the track a conversational flow that feels both personal and poetic.
- Sampling: As mentioned earlier, “Here” heavily samples Isaac Hayes’ “Ike’s Rap II.” This sample not only adds a vintage touch but also introduces a dark, jazzy undertone that perfectly complements the song’s themes of discomfort and disconnection.
These musical choices work together to evoke the exact emotions Alessia felt — turning an awkward party experience into an R&B masterpiece.
More from Alessia Cara
If “Here” hooked you, there’s plenty more from Alessia Cara to dive into:
- “Scars to Your Beautiful“ — Another hit from her Know-It-All album, this empowering anthem addresses body positivity and self-acceptance.
- “Growing Pains“ — The lead single from her sophomore album The Pains of Growing, tackling the struggles of transitioning into adulthood.
- YouTube Covers — Alessia gained fame through her incredible acoustic covers on YouTube, including hits like Taylor Swift’s “Bad Blood” and The Weeknd’s “Love Me Harder.”
Alessia Cara continues to use her platform to speak on important issues — from mental health to self-worth — all while staying true to her honest, introverted roots.
“Here” wasn’t just a hit single — it was a cultural moment. Alessia Cara gave a voice to those who felt out of place, offering a soundtrack for the wallflowers of the world. Her blend of relatable storytelling, soulful vocals, and smart music production set her apart from the start.
As Alessia’s career blossoms, one thing remains clear: she’s not afraid to be herself, and that’s exactly why she’s loved
