by In early 2020, the world was gripped by the emerging COVID-19 pandemic. As countries went into lockdown and everyday life was upended, people sought comfort through music.
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It was in this climate that pop artist Halsey and EDM producer Marshmello unveiled their collaborative single “Be Kind”. Through its production, lyrics, and promotion, the track aimed to spread positivity during difficult times. This is the story behind the making of what became a feel-good anthem.
Origins of the Collaboration
Halsey and Marshmello first worked together in 2019 on the song “11 Minutes” featuring Travis Barker. In interviews, Halsey praised Marshmello’s production talents while Marshmello commented on Halsey’s “amazing voice” and “strong vision” as an artist. Their musical chemistry was readily apparent, so when the opportunity for another collaboration arose, both jumped at the chance.
By early 2020, both artists had individually been working on new music. When COVID-19 hit, forcing Halsey to cancel her world tour and adjust her plans, she shifted focus to writing songs that could uplift people’s spirits in hard times. Having just worked with Marshmello, she instinctively felt he would be the perfect producer to turn her vision into reality.
Crafting the Sound
Sonically, “Be Kind” has Marshmello’s signature bounce and vibrancy. The track opens with his trademark sparkling synths backed by a steady groove. Halsey’s vocals glide brightly over this vibrant landscape, delivered with a smile that can be heard through her singing. The production seems tailor-made to fit her voice.
According to Marshmello, as soon as Halsey sent him the initial vocal demo for “Be Kind,” he was hooked by the positivity of the lyrics. From there, his goal was to create a soundscape that amplified the feel-good energy. The result is crisp, danceable EDM pop that harnesses the genre’s escapist qualities. Even as the world seemed to grow darker, this song’s radiant production would light the way.
The Meaning in the Lyrics
In contrast to the dark electropop of her Manic album, “Be Kind’s” lyrics overflow with optimism. Halsey penned verses that promote empathy and perseverance, while the chorus urges, “In a world like this, I got to be kind.” There are references to the pandemic’s toll like “everybody’s losing their patience,” but the overall thrust is overcoming through care for one another.
For Halsey, writing such unabashedly positive lyrics marked a departure from her normal introspective style. With tours cancelled and cities on lockdown, though, she felt called to send a reminder of humanity’s goodness. With lines like, “I hope you know somebody loves you,” she wanted to reinforce that even while physically distancing, there are always people who care. Marshmello’s breezy production amplifies how the song offers a balm for troubled times.
Promoting Positivity
From its release in May 2020, the promotion for “Be Kind” emphasized spreading goodwill. The official lyric video features artwork of the two artists surrounded by flowers, rainbows, and smiling faces made by Marshmello’s young fans. The colorful, cheerful imagery aligns with the song’s vibe.
Additionally, Halsey and Marshmello partnered with nonprofit Musicians on Call to help bring music to hospital patients. This initiative allowed them to give back while highlighting the song’s uplifting message. In behind-the-scenes footage of their visits with patients, the joy and comfort “Be Kind” can offer is palpable.
Finally, for their television debut performance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Halsey and Marshmello brought the song to life through a vibrant, social distance-friendly outdoor set. Both artists and the crew wore custom T-shirts reading “Be Kind”, driving home that central chorus plea. Ultimately, every aspect of the track’s promotion coalesced around spreading goodness, just as Halsey initially envisioned.
Impact & Legacy
Upon its May 2020 release, “Be Kind” became an instant fan-favorite and radio smash. It debuted at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and hit #1 on Billboard’s Dance/Electronic chart. With its sparkling production and uplifting lyrics, the song radiated warmth and optimism when people desperately needed it. For that reason, it connected widely across commercial radio formats like Top 40, Hot AC, and Adult Contemporary.
Critically, “Be Kind” met universal acclaim as well. Reviewers praised the collaboration, with Billboard calling it “a glorious mixture from two artists at contrasting points of their careers.” Marshmello’s production and Halsey’s lyrics blended masterfully to create what Music Times dubbed “a poignant anthem.” Ultimately, the song captured a cultural moment by promoting resilience and hope.
In the years since its release, “Be Kind” has remained a fan-favorite for both Halsey and Marshmello. Its verses have taken on new meaning in the wake of social justice movements like Black Lives Matter that call for systemic change through radical compassion. Both artists still perform the song live regularly, allowing its central message to reverberate out to audiences night after night.
For Marshmello, the track’s creation and reception represented the power EDM can have to lift spirits darkened by global crises. As for Halsey, composing such a joyful song showed her versatility as a writer. Two gifted artists came together at a pivotal cultural flashpoint, and the result was this eternal reminder that kindness is always in order. If there is a lasting legacy of “Be Kind,” it is that even in difficult times, we have the power to brighten the world for others, one heartfelt lyric or dance beat at a time.
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