What makes Up in the Air by 30 Seconds to Mars notable?

The song debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking a significant commercial success for the band. Furthermore, it was notable for its innovative marketing campaign that included an interactive multimedia experience, which exemplified how bands could engage with fans using social media. By the release of 'Up in the Air', 30 Seconds to Mars was solidifying their status in the rock scene, following their commercially successful album 'This Is War' from 2009. This single marked a shift towards a more polished sound while maintaining the band's signature epic style, showcasing their evolution as artists after years of extensive touring and experimentation.

How many songs are on Up in the Air?

Up in the Air has 1 track, running approximately 4 minutes.

Up in the Air

30 Seconds to Mars · 2013

4 min · 1 track · alternative rock

An anthemic blend of soaring melodies and electronic elements wrapped in a cinematic soundscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Up in the Air — As the titular track, this song embodies the album's themes of ambition and exploration, enhanced by its electrifying production and anthemic choruses that resonate with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong production and anthemic qualities but lacks depth for lasting engagement.

What we noticed

The track features a steady build-up, starting with a soft electronic intro that gradually layers in guitars and drums.
The chorus is marked by a shift to a more anthemic sound, with vocal harmonies and a driving rhythm that contrasts with the verses.
There are multiple sections that alternate between quieter moments and explosive crescendos, creating dynamic tension throughout.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. 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: Breakthrough — The single marked a significant commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard chart.
Themes: human aspiration· post-label freedom· sonic exploration
Career context: By the release of 'Up in the Air', 30 Seconds to Mars was solidifying their status in the rock scene, following their commercially successful album 'This Is War' from 2009. This single marked a shift towards a more polished sound while maintaining the band's signature epic style, showcasing their evolution as artists after years of extensive touring and experimentation.
Stylistic neighbors: Muse· Linkin Park· The Killers