Middle Ground

Album: single release only (2023)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • The term "middle ground" means striking a balance between extremes, finding a compromise or solution that bridges opposing views or actions. This song is a reflective ballad that embraces finding common ground in a divided world.
  • "Middle Ground" starts with Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine wondering what it would take for people to get along. He sings about the challenges of living in a world that is increasingly divided. Levine asks, "Am I crazy to think that we could make it out? Am I crazier to believe there's a middle ground?"

    The second verse and bridge explore the impact that division has on Levine's personal life. He sings about feeling depressed and hopeless, and he wonders if he will ever find "someone to live for."

    Maroon 5 has described the song as "rallying around a message of fragility and humanity on both a personal and universal scale."
  • Adam Levine is the only member of Maroon 5 who is credited as a writer of this song. Its other authors are:

    Andrew Watt, a Grammy Award-winning record producer who has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Justin Bieber, Ozzy Osbourne, and Post Malone. He is known for his innovative production style, which blends elements of rock, pop, and electronic music.

    Gregory "Aldae" Hein, an American songwriter and producer who has worked with artists such as Miley Cyrus, Jonas Brothers, and Shawn Mendes. He co-wrote Cyrus' worldwide chart-topper "Flowers."

    Jon Bellion, an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who released the albums The Human Condition and Glory Sound Prep. He is known for his blend of pop, hip-hop, and R&B. Bellion co-penned Maroon 5's 2019 hit single "Memories."

    Pete Nappi, an American drummer, songwriter, and record producer. A member of the pop band Ocean Park Standoff, he has also worked with such artists as Gayle, 5 Seconds of Summer, and Anne-Marie.

    Rodney Jerkins, an American record producer, songwriter, and composer known for his work in the R&B and hip-hop genres. He has won multiple Grammy Awards and produced hit songs for the likes of Brandy, Destiny's Child, and Michael Jackson.

    Marvin Hemmings, also known as Toneworld, an American songwriter, producer, and pianist who often works alongside Rodney Jerkins.

    Andrew Watt, Jon Bellion, and Pete Nappi produced the song.
  • Maroon 5 released "Middle Ground" on May 19, 2023. It's their first single since dropping "Lovesick" in January 2022.
  • Adam Levine's two children, Dusty Rose and Gio Grace Levine, steal the spotlight in the sentimental video. We see them relaxing in a hammock, playing chess and running across a backyard with a bubble wand. The clip also features the band performing the track from the inside of a studio and an outdoor setting.

    American movie director David Dobkin (Shanghai Knights, Wedding Crashers) directed the clip. Dobkin also filmed Maroon 5's videos for "Sugar," "Don't Wanna Know," "Girls Like You" and "Memories."

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Dino Cazares of Fear Factory

Dino Cazares of Fear FactorySongwriter Interviews

The guitarist/songwriter explains how he came up with his signature sound, and deconstructs some classic Fear Factory songs.

Michael W. Smith

Michael W. SmithSongwriter Interviews

Smith breaks down some of his worship tracks as well as his mainstream hits, including "I Will Be Here For You" and "A Place In This World."

Allen Toussaint - "Southern Nights"

Allen Toussaint - "Southern Nights"They're Playing My Song

A song he wrote and recorded from "sheer spiritual inspiration," Allen's didn't think "Southern Nights" had hit potential until Glen Campbell took it to #1 two years later.

Best Band Logos

Best Band LogosSong Writing

Queen, Phish and The Stones are among our picks for the best band logos. Here are their histories and a design analysis from an expert.

TV Theme Songs

TV Theme SongsFact or Fiction

Was a Beatles song a TV theme? And who came up with those Fresh Prince and Sopranos songs?

Elton John

Elton JohnFact or Fiction

Does he have beef with Gaga? Is he Sean Lennon's godfather? See if you can tell fact from fiction in the Elton John edition.