Earth, Water, Fire & Air

### Producer

Troye Sivan (also exec) • Abel Tesfaye • Max Martin • Josh Abraham • Quincy Jones • Oscar Gorres • Shellback

## Singles from Earth, Water, Fire & Air

1. "Spring of Life"
Released: March 19, 2023

2. "Disappointment Blvd"
Released: March 31, 2023

3. "Heaven in My Hurricane"
Released: April 7, 2023

***Earth, Water, Fire & Air*** is a collaborative album by American singer and director The Weeknd, American performer and label executive P!nk, Barbadian businesswoman and label executive Rihanna and South African label executive and record producer Troye Sivan. It is a follow-up album to the original *Earth, Water & Fire* (released by The Weeknd, Rihanna & Troye Sivan). It was released on March 24, 2023 after a surprise announcement on March 19, 2023. The album was executively produced by Sivan, and distributed by Interscope Records - as part of a joint distribution deal with Atlantic Records, RCA Records and Roc Nation. It would debut at the top spot on the Billboard Top Albums Chart - becoming The Weeknd's 4th, P!nk's 5th, Sivan's 9th and Rihanna's record-tying 10th number-one album.

## Background

In late 2018, the music industry was abuzz with rumors of an exciting collaboration between two of the most respected artists in the business, Rihanna and Troye Sivan. With their remarkable track records and distinctive musical styles, fans eagerly awaited the release of their collaborative album, tentatively named *RT*, especially after their previous successful collaborations on "Sushi" and "Glitch”. However, despite fans' initial excitement, plans for the project were eventually put on hold as the artists became involved in other career pursuits. Despite fans' disappointment, rumors of a potential partnership between Rihanna and Sivan continued to circulate, particularly following their collaboration on Sivan's single "Fire in the Hole" with Abel Tesfaye (known by his stage name The Weeknd) in 2019.

The global Covid-19 pandemic further postponed many plans, but Sivan spearheaded the production of a collaborative album between the three artists in December 2020, entitled *Earth, Water & Fire* at Sivan’s behest. This thematic album, paying homage to the iconic 70s funk group Earth, Wind & Fire, explored the elements and was released on February 7th, 2021, to widespread commercial acclaim. Critics lauded the trio for their seamless fusion of unique musical styles and individual concepts, resulting in a cohesive and unforgettable listening experience.

The album spawned three official singles and a promotional single, two of which were released before the album's launch. The lead single, "SEVENTH HEAVEN," was a collaborative effort between the three artists, while Rihanna's "Burn the Crown" served as the lead single for her tenth studio album *ASCENSION*. Following the album's launch, "Here Today, Gone Tomorrow" was released as a promotional b-side to "SEVENTH HEAVEN," and "June" by Tesfaye and Sivan was released as a single for both *Earth, Water & Fire* and Tesfaye's third studio album *Nightcrawler*. All three official singles achieved a platinum certification and reached the top 3 on the Hot Singles chart. The album itself was certified platinum and reached No. 2 on the Top Album chart, second only to *Perfect Life* - the sixth studio album by RCA Records label executive P!nk.

The resounding success of *Earth, Water & Fire* cemented Tesfaye, Sivan and Rihanna's status as industry heavyweights, showcasing their capacity to collaborate and create something truly remarkable. It is evident that this partnership was well worth the wait, and fans would continue to hope for more exciting joint projects from these incredibly talented artists in the future. However, the album's unveiling was not without its share of notoriety. As each artist involved posted the name of their respective element on their social media handles, music fans suddenly became perplexed when K-Pop sensation Hyuna disrupted the announcement by posting the word "Pussy”. Despite the swift clarification that followed, this unexpected occurrence would prove to be merely the first stepping-stone on the path that lay ahead, leading to an even more unforgettable journey.

## Writing and Recording

On September 28th, 2022, while reminiscing about the past, Sivan, spoke of the box set artworks for *Earth, Water & Fire*, praising them as iconic. Immediately, P!nk shifted the conversation towards herself, suggesting that the album would have been better as a quartet, and that she would have graciously taken Air as her element. Meanwhile, Rihanna and Tesfaye acknowledged the idea while passing over Sivan's comments. Rihanna agreed that the quartet arrangement would have been fitting, while Tesfaye made a light-hearted joke about saving the idea for the 5th anniversary edition of the album.

After the idea began floating around, Tesfaye, widely known for his exceptional graphic design skills, began to develop rough concepts for a potential album cover. Three weeks later, on October 19th, he initiated an exclusive private conversation titled 'the elements chat', inviting all the other artists, including P!nk, to participate. After some deliberation, the four artists unanimously agreed to create an entirely new album and decided on a preliminary release date - the first week of the upcoming season. Throughout the rest of the year, ideas and suggestions for potential new songs were occasionally shared. It wasn't until January 2023 that the group truly delved into the creation of the album, writing a total of 12 songs that formed the foundation of the project.

In the early days of February, the four performers attended a photoshoot that would capture the essence of their album cover. A few days later, the artwork was finalized after a meticulous editing process, with individual alternate versions of the album cover also crafted to coincide with the release of the vinyl box sets. The team also created mockups for the patterns that would adorn the vinyl discs. On February 22nd, 2023, the recording process for the album finally commenced, helmed once again by the capable hands of executive producer Sivan. The record saw the collaboration of esteemed producers such as Max Martin, Quincy Jones, Josh Abraham, Oscar Gorres, Oscar Holter, Shellback, and even Tesfaye himself, ensuring a polished and masterful final product.

And thus, the stage was set for the grand debut of *Earth, Water, Fire & Air*, scheduled for release on March 24th, 2023. The album would be accompanied by its lead single, "Spring of Life," as well as the second single, "Disappointment Blvd," a track that features on the album. Fans can also expect Rihanna and P!nk to release singles from the record, adding to the excitement surrounding this highly anticipated release. The album is poised to make a grand entrance onto the Top Albums Chart this coming Sunday (March 26th) cementing its status as a musical masterpiece.

## Music and lyrics

"Untitled" is a fascinating musical fusion of innovative ideas and atmospheric sounds that are skillfully interwoven to produce a captivating melody. The four elements come together in an exhilarating collision, creating a soundscape that is both complex and beautifully crafted. The introduction is especially notable for its striking vocal harmonies, which clash in perfect unison to create an electrifying opening. Followed by "Don’t You Know?", a contemporary R&B power ballad with a pop-rock twist is a true work of art, featuring a captivating piano melody that is accompanied by a full orchestra. The haunting sounds are guaranteed to leave you mesmerized and spellbound. The song takes the form of a deep and meaningful conversation between two individuals who are forming a romantic relationship. They explore each other's weaknesses and low points, asking if they are able to move beyond them and build a connection that is powerful and unbreakable.

"Pearl Diver" is an awe-inspiring electropop downtempo crafted with meticulous attention to detail to produce an atmosphere that is both captivating and ethereal. The vocals are expertly interwoven, creating a mesmerizing soundscape that ebbs and flows, entrancing the listener with each passing moment. The inspiration for this evocative piece is the birth of the Greek goddess Aphrodite, and the lyrics explore the complex themes of materialistic and lustful desires. The result is a truly stunning work of musical art that is sure to leave a lasting impression. It's followed by "Taken at the Flood", a powerful song that delves deeply into the complex themes of free will and destiny, exploring the notion of losing control over one's life and identity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the chaos that ensues when we are unable to recognize the ebbs and flows of life, and the warning of an impending downfall is both poignant and thought-provoking. The electronic production is masterfully crafted, with an ever-changing and non-structured arrangement that creates a sense of unpredictability and movement. The instrumentation elements are inspired by the ocean and its powerful waves, adding a layer of symbolism to the already deeply moving lyrics. Together, the music and lyrics create an immersive and unforgettable experience that is sure to resonate with listeners on a profound level.

A dynamic pop-rock love song, "Heaven in My Hurricane" is a heartfelt tribute to the perfect partner who brings much-needed stability and support to your life, even when things get chaotic. The lyrics speak to the power of loyalty and commitment, describing a love that endures through the ups and downs of life. The instrumental arrangement is expertly crafted, featuring chaotic pulses and shaking that evoke the powerful forces of nature, like a typhoon. Together, the music and lyrics create an immersive and deeply moving experience that celebrates the transformative power of love. Drawing parallels to the unexpected force of the ocean's waves, "Windwave" this captivating song is a masterful metaphor for the unpredictable nature of love,. The lyrics describe the thrilling and sometimes overwhelming experience of falling in love, never quite knowing when or how hard it will hit you until it does, just like the salty ocean spray. The music is a true testament to the power of sound, with winds blowing at the beginning that evolve into a dynamic and upbeat clash of electronic and rock genres. The tempo changes rapidly throughout the song, mirroring the unpredictable nature of love. The outro is a stunning finale, with waves crashing against the shore in a symphony of sound that brings the song to a breathtaking close.

"Hex" is enigmatic synth-rock masterpiece that is a masterful blend of upbeat rhythms, electric guitars, and synths coming together to create a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. The tempo slows down during the bridge, introducing an element of depth and introspection that perfectly complements the lyrics. Speaking of which, the song is a bold and assertive invitation to various men, welcoming them into a relationship, while also reminding them that any transgression will not be tolerated. The lyrics are a testament to the power of self-assurance, with a firm warning that any infidelity will result in immediate and irrevocable consequences. The song's powerful conclusion is marked by the crackling of fire in the outro, a symbol of both passion and destruction. Together, the music and lyrics create a haunting and evocative work of art that is sure to resonate with listeners on a deep and emotional level. A captivating R&B track, "Fall to Pieces" is marked by its intensity and aggression, with hard-hitting beats and haunting electronic elements that create a palpable sense of chaos and urgency. The lyrics are a raw and emotional reflection on the experience of heartbreak and desperation, capturing the feeling of losing one's grip on reality in the face of intense emotions. Despite the weight of the subject matter, the music is a testament to the transformative power of art, offering a cathartic and transformative experience that is both moving and uplifting. With its dynamic composition and evocative lyrics, this song is a true work of art that is sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners.

"Santorini" is lively dance pop track is imbued with the rich cultural heritage of traditional Greek music, featuring strings and acoustic guitar that create a dynamic and engaging sound. The lyrics celebrate the simple pleasures of life, finding joy and beauty in everything around us. The bridge provides a welcome moment of introspection, with the gentle crackling of a fire lending a sense of warmth and intimacy to the song. With its vibrant energy and infectious rhythms, the music captures the essence of community and togetherness, evoking the feeling of a joyous gathering around a fire with friends. This song is a true celebration of life and the beauty that surrounds us, offering a sense of hope and inspiration that is both uplifting and unforgettable. Followed by "Disappointment Blvd", an R&B and alternative pop hybrid is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit, featuring heavy midtempo rhythms and drawn-out, abrasive synths that reflect the emotional turmoil of the protagonists' current mental state. The lyrics offer a poignant reflection on the challenges of pursuing one's dreams and finding happiness, describing a journey that feels endless and often fraught with disappointment. Despite the weight of the subject matter, the music offers a sense of catharsis and release, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength and meaning in the journey itself. This song is a moving and unforgettable testament to the power of music to touch the human soul, offering a message of hope and inspiration that is both timely and timeless.

"Before the Sunrise" is a soulful R&B song that begins with a dark and intense tone, before gradually evolving into a more luminous soundscape as it progresses,and ultimately ending on a hopeful and optimistic note with the sweet sounds of birds heralding the dawn. Lyrically, the song explores the intricacies of a fleeting romantic encounter, with both parties mutually agreeing to part ways come morning. The skillful instrumentation and production seamlessly fuse to create a captivating and emotionally charged sonic journey. The record concludes with "Spring of Life", a breathtaking musical masterpiece that celebrates the joys of living, capturing the excitement and unpredictability of life's journey. The song opens with a magnificent piano performance by Sivan, gradually building up in tempo and intensity, culminating in a grandiose and anthemic explosion of diverse musical styles and genres that symbolize the harmonious interplay of the four elements. The R&B bridge provides a much-needed respite before the song ends on a mesmerizing outro of singular water droplets, leaving the listener in a state of pure bliss. This work of art is a loving tribute to the legendary “Bohemian Rhapsody”, showcasing the immense creativity and vision of its creators.

## Release and Promotion

*Earth, Water, Fire & Air* was released and distributed by Interscope Records - as part of a joint distribution deal with Atlantic Records, RCA Records and Roc Nation. The album was announced suddenly on March 19, 2023, following a string of social media posts from all of the involved artists, with the release date scheduled for March 24, 2023. Individual vinyl versions of the record for each element, plus a boxset of all four vinyls would be released the following week on March 28, 2023. While accurate sales data is not known, fans were polled on social media revealing that the *Water* vinyl was the most anticipated of the four, swiftly followed by the *Air* vinyl.

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### Singles

*Earth, Water, Fire & Air* would spawn three official singles, initially being preceded by the lead single "Spring of Life" on March 19, 2023. The second single "Disappointment Blvd" would release the following week, on March 31. Finally, the third single "Heaven in My Hurricane" - a joint single with P!nk's new studio album *Perfect Girl* would release officially on April 7. Both "Spring of Life" and "Disappointment Blvd" would chart within the top five of the Hot Singles Chart. Promotional singles "Before the Sunrise" and "Fall to Pieces" were also released to further support the record.

## Critical Reception

Upon release, Earth, Water, Fire & Air received acclaim from music critics across the industry. At Metacritic, which assigns a normalized rating out of 100 to reviews from publications, the album has a weighted mean score of 73 based on 1 review, indicating "generally favorable" reception. This was the highest score of the week, tied with *Miss Gender* by Miley Cyrus. Critics signalled "Fall to Pieces" and "Disappointment Blvd" as their favorite songs from the record. The official User Score for the album is 7.5 out of 10, showing universal acclaim amongst fans.

## Commercial Performance

*Earth, Water, Fire & Air* made its first appearance on the March 26, 2023 issue of the Billboard Top Albums Chart; where it would debut at the top-spot with over 89 chart points. It would also top the Billboard Streaming Albums Chart and the Billboard Trending Albums Chart. The following week, the album would slip to the number seven position but receive both a silver certification and gold certification from Billboard for accumulating over 100 and 150 chart points respectively. On April 9, 2023, the record would receive a platinum certification for surpassing a total of 200 chart points.