Ethan Bortnick Gets the Worst Birthday Gift You Could Wish For in "happy f***ing birthday"


Singer-songwriter and producer Ethan Bortnick continues to make listeners collectively cry with the release of his latest single, "happy f***ing birthday." The single is a bitter lullaby wrapped in a blend of meticulous production and an intricate, anguish-filled piano arrangement, detailing the complicated emotions that can arise as you watch someone you love fall in love with someone else.

"happy f***ing birthday" opens with a lilting piano riff mixed in with faded audio of people singing happy birthday. As the instrumentation solidifies into an entity filled with dynamic layers of distortion and effects, Bortnick openly shares his experience of being unwanted by the person he loves. He laments over his heartbreak and the sadness, bitterness, and confusion that comes with watching the only thing he desires fall into someone else's arms. His warm but melancholic vocals sing in the second verse, "Pictured you'd be standing here / But you brought my greatest fear / Sing me 'Happy birthday' while you hold his hand."

The accompanying music video, directed by Mallika Chandaria, is a visual brimming with nostalgia. The vulnerable and bittersweet lyrics juxtapose home video footage provided by Bortnick's family, showing various joyful scenes from his childhood birthday parties. The visual then shows clips of present-day Bortnick isolated and singing alone on the floor of his living room or a whimsically colorful set, crying, surrounded by what looks to be a birthday party with no guests.

Watch the "happy f***ing birthday" video below:


Related Articles

BENEE’s Remembers to Stay Sweet on New Single “Cinnamon,” Announces Upcoming Sophomore Album

BENEE’s Remembers to Stay Sweet on New Single “Cinnamon,” Announces Upcoming Sophomore Album

August 28, 2025 The alt-pop singer is beginning the rollout of her highly anticipated sophomore album Ur An Angel I’m Just Particles.
Author: Rebeccah Blau
pop
ADÉLA Cements Herself as a One of a Kind Solo Pop Star in 'The Provocateur'

ADÉLA Cements Herself as a One of a Kind Solo Pop Star in 'The Provocateur'

August 26, 2025 'The Provocateur' lives up to its namesake. It's daring, unapologetic, and undeniably ADÉLA.
Author: Alessandra Rincon
pop
Stacey Ryan's Blessing in Disguise Is A Journal Entry of Growth & Grace

Stacey Ryan's Blessing in Disguise Is A Journal Entry of Growth & Grace

August 23, 2025 We luckily summoned this ex-Montrealer to our garden level abode to dig into this amazing record, tips on closed restaurants, and much more here.
Author: DJ Connor
pop