The Killers Classic That Billie Eilish Used to Cry To

Billie Eilish may be known for breaking records and becoming the youngest artist to headline Glastonbury, but at heart, she’s still a music fan, just like the rest of us. Like many teenagers, she turned to her record collection when emotions ran high—and one particular track, from a band that helped soundtrack her childhood, was her go-to during tough times.

For Eilish, The Killers were a group that had a lasting impact on her from a young age. It might be surprising for those who remember The Killers when they were a new band, but for Eilish, the Las Vegas natives have always been a presence in her life. When Hot Fuss was released in 2004, Eilish was only two years old. Yet, despite her young age, their debut album became a constant in the Eilish family home. Over the years, the album became a sentimental favorite for both Eilish and her brother, Finneas, as they bonded over the music during their childhood.

Although Mr. Brightside has since become an anthem that’s been endlessly played on repeat, to the point where many may be tired of hearing it, Eilish and Finneas have a different connection to it. Eilish admitted to Variety that there were many times when, as a teenager, she would turn to the song during emotional moments. “I would just sit in the car and cry to ‘Mr. Brightside,’ even though nothing in my life, at all, was that situation,” she said. “Their music just makes you feel heard—even if what you feel heard for isn’t how you feel, if that makes sense.”

The song, which has become a ubiquitous part of pop culture, was not just a catchy tune for Eilish, but an emotional outlet. She continued, “I love it—love The Killers.” This connection to the song speaks to the universal power of music to provide solace, even if the listener’s situation doesn’t directly align with the lyrics.

In a separate interview, Finneas echoed his sibling’s sentiments, explaining the special place Hot Fuss holds in both of their hearts. “The Killers is a band that I think we both sort of view as a childhood favorite—especially Hot Fuss, because ‘Mr. Brightside’ on it is just such an important piece of music to us,” he said.

Despite the song’s years of airplay and what some might consider overexposure, Mr. Brightside remains one of the most enduring tracks in modern music. It has defied the usual trajectory of hit singles by continuing to chart year after year, even as it celebrates nearly two decades since its release. The song, which initially peaked at number 10 on the UK charts, has now spent over 260 weeks in the UK Top 100, an astounding milestone that no other song is even close to matching.

To put this into perspective, Mr. Brightside is streamed an average of 1.2 million times a week and has sold more than 3.5 million copies. These numbers speak to its undeniable staying power and influence on listeners, from those who first heard it in the mid-2000s to new generations discovering it today.

The Killers’ Mr. Brightside is a song that resonates far beyond its initial release—a track that’s become a cultural touchstone. For Billie Eilish, it’s more than just a song—it’s a piece of her personal journey, a comforting anthem that carried her through emotional moments and continues to serve as a reminder of the powerful connection music can provide.

For anyone wondering what makes Mr. Brightside so special, Eilish’s candid reflections and the song’s enduring popularity offer a glimpse into its magic. The song’s power lies not just in its catchy melody, but in its ability to evoke deep, universal emotions, making it a timeless companion for anyone who’s ever needed a little catharsis.