Definition
“Sweet and Low” is a 2008 single by the American rock band Augustana, released as the lead track from their second studio album Can’t Love, Can’t Hurt.
Overview
The song was issued in February 2008 and recorded during 2007–2008. It falls within the alternative rock and pop‑rock genres and has a runtime of 3 minutes 34 seconds. Written by Augustana frontman Dan Layus and collaborator Mike Flynn, the track was produced by Mike Flynn and Warren Huart and released through Epic Records. “Sweet and Low” peaked at number 34 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Top 40 chart in 2008 and also entered the Billboard Hot 100 (position 88) and Pop 100 (position 66). The song was featured in an episode of the television series Kyle XY, which contributed to renewed attention in 2009–2010. An official music video was uploaded to YouTube on 25 April 2010; as of October 2021 the video had amassed over 1.4 million views.
Etymology/Origin
The title “Sweet and Low” echoes the phrase found in earlier literary and musical works, such as the 19th‑century lullaby “Sweet and Low.” No specific source confirming the band’s intended reference has been documented; therefore, the precise origin of the title in this context remains unverified.
Characteristics
- Genre: Alternative rock, pop rock
- Length: 3:34
- Label: Epic Records
- Songwriters: Dan Layus, Mike Flynn
- Producers: Mike Flynn, Warren Huart
- Release format: CD single, digital download; CD single includes a live version recorded at Sweetwater Studios.
- Chart performance: U.S. Billboard Adult Top 40 #34; Billboard Hot 100 #88; Billboard Pop 100 #66.
- Media usage: Included in Kyle XY (episode “Episode …”) and promoted through an official music video.
Related Topics
- Augustana (band)
- Can’t Love, Can’t Hurt (album)
- Epic Records
- Billboard Adult Top 40 chart
- Kyle XY (television series)
- Warren Huart (record producer)