Adele – “Set Fire to the Rain” is one of the standout singles from her 2011 album 21. Released in late 2011 in the UK and early 2012 in the US, the track became her third consecutive Billboard Hot 100 No. 1, solidifying her dominance during that era.
Musically, the song builds from a steady piano base into a soaring, orchestral pop ballad. Adele’s voice carries the drama, rising from intimate verses into a thunderous chorus. The production, handled by Fraser T. Smith, perfectly complements her vocals with lush strings and cinematic crescendos, making it one of her most powerful performances.
Lyrically, Set Fire to the Rain blends love, heartbreak, and empowerment. It uses fire and rain as metaphors for impossible yet passionate emotions—burning intensity clashing with sadness. That mix of vulnerability and strength is what resonated with millions, turning it into both a fan favorite and a radio staple.
Adele – Set Fire to the Rain Lyrics
I let it fall, my heart And as it fell, you rose to claim it It was dark and I was over Until you kissed my lips and you saved me My hands, they were strong But my knees were far too weak To stand in your arms Without fallin’ to your feet
But there’s a side to you That I never knew, never knew All the things you’d say They were never true, never true And the games you’d play You would always win, always win
But I set fire to the rain Watched it pour as I touched your face Well, it burned while I cried ‘Cause I heard it screamin’ out your name Your name
When I lay with you I could stay there Close my eyes Feel you here forever You and me together, nothing is better
‘Cause there’s a side to you That I never knew, never knew All the things you’d say They were never true, never true And the games you’d play You would always win, always win
But I set fire to the rain Watched it pour as I touched your face Well, it burned while I cried ‘Cause I heard it screamin’ out your name Your name I set fire to the rain And I threw us into the flames When it fell, somethin’ died ‘Cause I knew that that was The last time, the last time
Sometimes I wake up by the door That heart you caught must be waitin’ for ya Even now, when we’re already over I can’t help myself from lookin’ for ya
I set fire to the rain Watched it pour as I touched your face Well, it burned while I cried ‘Cause I heard it screamin’ out your name Your name I set fire to the rain And I threw us into the flames When it fell, somethin’ died ‘Cause I knew that that was the last time The last time
Oh, oh, no Let it burn Oh, oh Let it burn Let it burn
