One Hit Thunder Episode 269: “Mad World” by Gary Jules (f/ Nichole Vatcher)

This week, Matt and I welcome Nichole Vatcher—cohost of the brilliant podcast Nevermind the Music—for a deep dive into Gary Jules’ haunting 2001 cover of “Mad World.” Originally a minor hit for a young Tears for Fears, the song took on a whole new life thanks to its stripped-down piano arrangement and its eerie, unforgettable appearance in Donnie Darko. We talk about its emotional weight, how it became a surprise Christmas #1 in the UK, and whether more credit should go to Gary Jules or his collaborator Michael Andrews. We also take a look at the rest of Jules’ career and try to determine whether this quietly powerful ballad is thunder… or just rumble in the distance.