Charlie Puth - Attention

Watch the official music video for Charlie Puth - Attention, featured in our YouTube New Music and Old Videos collection.

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“Attention” is a hit single by American singer-songwriter Charlie Puth, released on April 21, 2017 as the lead single from his second studio album Voicenotes. The song marked a major artistic shift for Puth, showcasing his growth as both a producer and songwriter. “Attention” stands out with its blend of pop rock, soft soul, and funk influences, coupled with a memorable bass-driven groove and candid lyricism that made it one of the most defining tracks of Puth’s career.

Written by Charlie Puth and Jacob Kasher Hindlin, the track explores themes of emotional realization and self-reflection, as the narrator comes to terms with a relationship built on manipulation rather than genuine connection. Its clever lyrical hook — “you just want attention” — became a cultural touchstone, resonating with fans around the world and securing the song’s place on global music charts.

Music Video Overview

The official music video for “Attention,” released on April 24, 2017, complements the song’s narrative with strong visual storytelling. Directed by Emil Nava and filmed in the Hollywood Hills, the video places viewers in a stylish club and intimate apartment settings as Charlie Puth follows a blonde woman — portrayed by actress Samara Weaving — whose interests are revealed to be self-serving rather than emotionally authentic.

The video uses lighting, camera movement, and performance to create a cinematic feel that mirrors the emotional tension of the song. Puth’s brooding presence and nuanced expressions deepen the viewer’s understanding of the lyrical themes, elevating what could be a simple pop video into a more layered and thoughtful visual experience. As of recent years, the music video has garnered well over a billion views on YouTube, underscoring its lasting appeal.

Why the Song Was Successful

“Attention” became a commercial and critical success for several reasons:

• Catchy Production: The track’s mix of pop rock rhythm, funky bassline, and polished sound made it both radio-friendly and musically distinctive.
• Relatable Lyrics: The song’s theme — recognizing when someone is interested in attention rather than love — struck a chord with listeners across age groups.
• Strong Visuals: The official video’s narrative and cinematic feel helped amplify the song’s emotional message.
• Chart Performance: “Attention” reached the top ten in multiple countries worldwide and became one of Charlie Puth’s highest-charting singles on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 5.

Album Context and Legacy

Featured on the album Voicenotes, “Attention” helped define Charlie Puth’s transition from pop ballads toward a more mature, groove-oriented sound. The album also includes other successful tracks like “How Long” and showcases Puth’s versatility as both a vocalist and producer.

Over time, “Attention” has remained a staple in pop playlists and continues to be referenced in cultural conversations about relationships and self-awareness in music. Its enduring popularity speaks to the strength of Puth’s songwriting and the universal nature of its themes.

Final Thoughts

“Attention” stands as a milestone in Charlie Puth’s discography — a track that balances catchy production, thoughtful lyricism, and compelling visuals. The official music video enhances its narrative, offering a deeper look at the emotional journey of love, ego, and realization. For fans and new listeners alike, “Attention” remains both musically engaging and emotionally resonant, a testament to Puth’s evolving artistry.

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