What makes SOS by Avicii notable?

The song SOS reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of Avicii's most commercially successful tracks. Its release sparked conversations around mental health, particularly highlighting Avicii's own struggles and encouraging openness about such issues in the music industry. SOS was released posthumously in 2019 following Avicii's tragic passing in 2018. This single marked a significant moment in his discography as it became part of the album that compiled his unfinished works, showcasing his enduring influence in the EDM scene.

How many songs are on SOS?

SOS has 1 track, running approximately 2 minutes.

SOS

Avicii · 2019

2 min · 1 track · electronic dance music

Uplifting melodies and poignant lyrics intertwine, creating a heartfelt tribute to resilience and the struggle for mental health awareness.

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Top tracks — play these first

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SOS — This title track encapsulates Avicii's signature blend of uplifting melodies and deeply emotional themes, resonating strongly with fans and newcomers alike.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

56 /100

Foothills

Higher than 47% of albums we've rated

The track combines strong melodies and emotional lyrics, making it both impactful and memorable in the EDM landscape.

What we noticed

The track features a steady four-on-the-floor beat with layered synths that build gradually, creating an uplifting atmosphere.
Vocals are prominent throughout, with a call-and-response structure that emphasizes the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The arrangement includes a breakdown section where instrumentation drops out, allowing for a moment of reflection before building back up to the chorus.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Released posthumously, it showcases Avicii's continued impact and relevance in music.
Themes: mental health awareness· posthumous tribute· resilience in tragedy
Career context: SOS was released posthumously in 2019 following Avicii's tragic passing in 2018. This single marked a significant moment in his discography as it became part of the album that compiled his unfinished works, showcasing his enduring influence in the EDM scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Calvin Harris· David Guetta· Zedd

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

SOS

The chorus introduces a powerful call for help, shifting between vulnerability and hope.

This shift emphasizes the duality of struggling while also seeking support, a crucial aspect of Avicii's message regarding mental health.