If you’ve ever heard the soulful, emotional track “Rolling in the Deep,” you might have wondered who the artist is. This iconic song has become a staple of modern music and has even been covered by legendary artists like Aretha Franklin. In this article, we explore the origins of the song, its impact, and the singer behind it.
The Singer Behind “Rolling in the Deep”
The original artist of “Rolling in the Deep” is Adele, a British singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Born Adele Adkins in 1988 in London, England, she rose to fame with her debut album 19 in 2008. However, it was her second studio album, 21, released in 2011, that truly catapulted her into global stardom.
“Rolling in the Deep” was the lead single from 21 and became one of the most successful songs of the decade. It spent an impressive 65 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won multiple awards, including Best Pop Solo Performance at the 2012 Grammy Awards.
The Meaning Behind the Song

“Rolling in the Deep” is more than just a catchy tune—it’s a deeply personal and emotional piece. Adele wrote the song with English producer and songwriter Paul Epworth. She described the track as a reflection of her own experiences following a breakup. The lyrics convey a sense of betrayal and heartbreak, with lines like:
“We could’ve had it all / Rolling in the deep / You had my heart inside of your hands / And you played it to the beat.”
Adele explained that the song was her way of expressing frustration and anger toward someone who had hurt her. She told Spin magazine:
“It’s me saying, ‘Get the fuck out of my house instead of me begging him to come back.’”
She also mentioned that the phrase “rolling in the deep” is an adaptation of a UK slang term meaning to have someone always there for you, which she felt was broken in the relationship she was writing about.
Why “Rolling in the Deep” Became a Hit

There are several reasons why “Rolling in the Deep” resonated so strongly with audiences. First, Adele’s vocal performance is nothing short of breathtaking. Her voice carries a raw emotion that makes the song feel personal and authentic. Second, the production, led by Paul Epworth, adds a slow build-up that allows Adele’s voice to shine.
The song also benefits from its universal theme of heartbreak and loss. Many listeners could relate to the emotions conveyed in the lyrics, making it a go-to anthem for anyone going through a tough time.
Aretha Franklin’s Cover of “Rolling in the Deep”

While Adele’s version of “Rolling in the Deep” is iconic, the song has also been interpreted by other legendary artists. One of the most notable covers came from Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul.”
In 2014, Franklin included a cover of “Rolling in the Deep” on her album Aretha Franklin Sings the Great Diva Classics. Her rendition combined the song with the classic Motown hit “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” originally performed by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, and later made famous by Diana Ross.
Franklin revealed in a 2014 interview with Rolling Stone that she first heard the song while watching television. She was impressed by the melody and Adele’s talent, comparing her to legendary songwriters like Carole King.
How Aretha Franklin Reimagined the Song

Franklin’s version of “Rolling in the Deep” was a unique blend of her signature soulful style and the original song’s emotional depth. While she kept the melody intact, she added her own flair, making it sound both familiar and fresh.
During a live performance on The Late Show with David Letterman, Franklin sang the mashup with Cissy Houston, the mother of Whitney Houston and a respected gospel singer. The performance highlighted Franklin’s enduring talent and her ability to adapt modern songs into timeless classics.
The Legacy of “Rolling in the Deep”
“Rolling in the Deep” remains one of the most recognizable songs of the 2010s. Its success helped solidify Adele’s status as one of the greatest voices of her generation. Beyond its commercial success, the song has also inspired countless covers and tributes, including Aretha Franklin’s memorable interpretation.
The track continues to be a favorite among fans and musicians alike, proving that great music transcends time and genre.
Conclusion
“Rolling in the Deep” is more than just a song—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Written and performed by Adele, it has touched the hearts of millions around the world. From its emotional lyrics to its powerful vocal delivery, the song is a testament to Adele’s artistry.
Even as it was reimagined by legends like Aretha Franklin, the essence of “Rolling in the Deep” remains unchanged. It’s a reminder of the power of music to connect, heal, and inspire.
Author Section
Author: Emily Carter
Title/Role: Music & Culture Reporter
Credentials: With over a decade of experience covering music trends and cultural movements, Emily has written for major publications such as Rolling Stone and Billboard. She specializes in exploring the intersection of music, history, and social change.
Profile Link: Emily Carter Profile
References
- Rolling Stone – Adele Interview
- Adele Official Website
- Aretha Franklin Sings the Great Diva Classics
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