Sorry – Justin Bieber (PURPOSE : The Movement)

Released on October 22, 2015, “Sorry” by Justin Bieber quickly became one of the standout tracks of his fourth studio album, *Purpose*. With its infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and vibrant dance visuals, the song captured the attention of audiences worldwide, solidifying Bieber’s transition from teen pop sensation to mature artist. “Sorry” is not only a reflection of Bieber’s personal growth but also a testament to his ability to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving music industry.

### The Making of “Sorry”

“Sorry” was written by Justin Bieber, Julia Michaels, Justin Tranter, Skrillex, and BloodPop, with the latter two also handling the production. The song features a dancehall-infused pop beat, characterized by its bouncy rhythms, tropical house influences, and catchy hooks. This blend of genres creates a fresh and contemporary sound that was both innovative and appealing to a broad audience.

The lyrics of “Sorry” revolve around themes of regret and redemption, with Bieber pleading for forgiveness in a relationship. The chorus, “Is it too late now to say sorry? / ‘Cause I’m missing more than just your body,” captures the emotional essence of the song, showcasing a more vulnerable and introspective side of Bieber. This lyrical depth, combined with the upbeat production, strikes a balance between melancholy and hopefulness.

### Purpose: The Movement

The release of “Sorry” was accompanied by a unique visual project called *Purpose: The Movement*, which featured dance videos for each song on the album. The video for “Sorry” was directed by Parris Goebel and features the ReQuest Dance Crew, a group of talented dancers from New Zealand. The vibrant choreography, colorful backgrounds, and energetic performances in the video played a crucial role in the song’s popularity.

Unlike traditional music videos, the “Sorry” video focuses entirely on the dancers, with no appearance by Bieber himself. This creative decision shifted the focus to the music and the movement, allowing the choreography to tell the story of the song. The dance video quickly went viral, amassing billions of views on YouTube and becoming one of the platform’s most-watched videos. The innovative approach of *Purpose: The Movement* highlighted the importance of visual storytelling in the digital age.

### Commercial Success and Chart Performance

“Sorry” achieved massive commercial success, topping charts in over a dozen countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. In the United States, the song peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for three non-consecutive weeks. It was also a major hit on streaming platforms, breaking records for the most streams in a single day on Spotify.

The song’s commercial success was further bolstered by its popularity on social media and streaming services. Its catchy melody and danceable beat made it a favorite for covers, remixes, and dance challenges, further extending its reach and influence. “Sorry” also received multi-platinum certifications in several countries, underscoring its widespread appeal.

### Critical Reception

“Sorry” received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its catchy production, relatable lyrics, and Bieber’s vocal performance. Critics noted the song’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with contemporary dancehall and tropical house influences, creating a sound that was both fresh and familiar. The production work of Skrillex and BloodPop was also highlighted as a key element in the song’s success.

Many reviewers appreciated Bieber’s willingness to explore more mature themes and showcase vulnerability in his music. This shift in lyrical content and musical style marked a significant turning point in Bieber’s career, helping to reshape his public image and gain respect from a broader audience. The critical acclaim for “Sorry” was reflected in its numerous award nominations, including a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Solo Performance.

### Cultural Impact and Legacy

“Sorry” has left a lasting impact on pop culture and the music industry. The song’s fusion of dancehall and pop influences contributed to the mainstream popularity of tropical house music, influencing the sound of pop music in the years that followed. Its success also demonstrated the power of visual media in music promotion, with the *Purpose: The Movement* dance video setting a new standard for creativity and engagement in music videos.

The song’s themes of regret and forgiveness resonated with listeners, allowing many to connect with its message on a personal level. This emotional resonance, combined with its infectious beat, made “Sorry” a staple at parties, clubs, and social gatherings, cementing its status as a modern pop classic.

“Sorry” also played a crucial role in Justin Bieber’s career revival, helping him transition from a teen idol to a respected artist. The success of *Purpose* and its singles, including “Sorry,” marked a new chapter for Bieber, showcasing his growth as a musician and his ability to adapt to changing musical trends. This evolution has allowed him to maintain relevance and continue to thrive in the competitive music industry.

### Conclusion

Justin Bieber’s “Sorry” is more than just a chart-topping hit; it is a cultural milestone that highlights the power of music to convey emotion and connect with audiences. The song’s infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and innovative dance video have left a lasting impact on pop culture, influencing the sound and style of contemporary music. As a pivotal moment in Bieber’s career, “Sorry” exemplifies his growth as an artist and his ability to navigate the evolving landscape of the music industry. The enduring popularity and influence of “Sorry” ensure its place as one of the defining songs of the 2010s, reflecting the timeless appeal of music that speaks to the heart.

Lyrics: Sorry – Justin Bieber

You gotta go and get
Angry at all of my honesty
You know I try but I don’t do too well with apologies
I hope I don’t run out of Time could someone call the referee
Cause I just need one more shot at forgiveness

I know you know that I
made those mistakes maybe once or twice
And by once or twice I Mean
Maybe a couple a hundred times
So let me oh let me
Redeem oh redeem oh my self tonight
Cause I just need one more shot at second chances

Yeah
Is it too late now to say sorry
Cause I’m missing more than just your body
Is it too late now to say sorry
Yeah I know that I let you down
Is it too late to say I’m sorry now
I’m sorry yeah
Sorry yeah
Sorry
Yeah I know that I let you down
Is it too late to say I’m sorry now

I’ll take every single piece of the blame
If you want me too
But you know that there is no innocent one in this game for two
I’ll go I’ll go and then
You go you go out and spill the truth
Can we both say the words and forget this

Yeah
Is it too late now to say sorry
Cause I’m missing more than just your body
Is it too late now to say sorry
Yeah I know that I let you down
Is it too late to say I’m sorry now

I’m not just trying to get you back on me
Cause I’m missing more than just your body
Is it too late now to say sorry
Yeah I know that I let you down
Is it too late to say I’m sorry now

I’m sorry (yeah)
Sorry (oh)
Sorry
Yeah I know that I let you down
Is it too late to say I’m sorry now

Justin Bieber