Mad World

"Mad World" is a song performed by Gary Jules in the original key of F minor. Originally composed by Tears for Fears, the song was released in 1982 as part of their album "The Hurting." However, it was Jules' haunting and stripped-down cover version, featured in the soundtrack of the film "Donnie Darko" in 2001, that gained significant popularity. Written by Roland Orzabal, it was the band's third single and reached number three on the UK Singles Chart. Interestingly, when Jules' cover was released, it became a Christmas number one in the United Kingdom in 2003. The melody of "Mad World" is characterized by its melancholic, slow tempo and introspective tone, primarily driven by Jules' emotive vocals and a simple piano accompaniment.