If We Ever Broke Up by Mae Stephens has taken the music world by storm. Released in early 2023, the track quickly gained viral status on TikTok, propelling Mae into the spotlight almost overnight. The song is part of her growing discography and has climbed both digital and traditional music charts, capturing the attention of millions with its catchy beat and bold lyrics. Although relatively new to the scene, Mae Stephens has already shown that she’s more than a one-hit wonder — she’s an artist with something to say.
The single’s success has not only resonated with listeners going through heartbreak but has also become an anthem for self-worth and empowerment. With its blend of retro-funk influences and modern pop sounds, If We Ever Broke Up solidified Mae’s place as a rising star in the alt-pop genre.
History of the Band or Song
Mae Stephens’ journey to fame is a tale of talent, persistence, and a touch of internet magic. Born in Kettering, England, Mae started her musical career by sharing original songs and covers on social media platforms, particularly TikTok. It was through this digital stage that If We Ever Broke Up gained traction, with its chorus becoming a viral soundbite used in thousands of videos.
The song’s inspiration stems from Mae’s personal experiences with relationships and the empowerment that comes from imagining life without someone who doesn’t value you. With lyrics like, “If we ever broke up, I’d never be sad,” Mae taps into a bold, almost rebellious sentiment — a refreshing twist on the usual breakup ballads.
What sets Mae apart is her ability to blend vulnerability with confidence, creating music that feels both relatable and anthemic. She’s not just singing about heartbreak — she’s reclaiming her power through it.
On the Videoclip
The music video for If We Ever Broke Up is as vibrant and quirky as the song itself. Directed by the talented Sophie Muller — known for her work with artists like Gwen Stefani and Ellie Goulding — the video perfectly encapsulates the song’s playful yet defiant tone.
Set in a surreal, candy-colored universe, the video follows Mae as she navigates through a whimsical post-breakup dreamscape. The aesthetic blends retro ‘70s influences with modern art-pop visuals, reflecting Mae’s unique style.
Choreography is another standout element, with a group of energetic dancers adding to the rebellious, fun-loving vibe of the song. While the music video doesn’t follow a strict narrative, its symbolic use of bold colors and exaggerated props hints at the freedom and joy that come from moving on.
Talk Nerdy to Me
For those who love to dive into the technical side of music, If We Ever Broke Up offers plenty of intriguing details. The track is built on a foundation of funky basslines and syncopated rhythms, giving it that irresistible, danceable groove.
Musically, the song sits comfortably in the key of C Minor, using a blend of major 7th chords and chromatic passing notes to create tension and release — a technique often found in classic funk and disco tracks. The syncopated bassline borrows from retro influences, while the punchy, minimalist drumbeat keeps the song modern and crisp.
Mae’s vocal delivery is another clever twist. She uses a mix of conversational singing and half-spoken lines, adding personality and charm to the track. The call-and-response structure in the chorus subtly nods to old-school Motown hits, while the electronic synth layers pull it back into the 21st century.
For music theory buffs, there’s also a delightful use of modal interchange — the shifting between major and minor modes — that adds emotional complexity beneath the song’s playful surface. It’s a small touch, but it showcases Mae’s musical sophistication.
More from Mae Stephens
If you loved If We Ever Broke Up, here are more Mae Stephens songs you need to check out:
- Jungle – a collab with The Chainsmokers
- Mr. Right – collab with Meghan Trainor
Mae Stephens continues to blend old-school influences with her unique alt-pop style, making her discography a must-listen for fans of bold and relatable music.
Mae Stephens has proven herself as more than just a viral sensation. With If We Ever Broke Up, she’s not only created a hit song but also cemented her status as an artist with depth, charisma, and an exciting future. Keep an eye on Mae — because this is just the start of something extraordinary.
