Written in the key of F major , it utilizes a classic "50s progression" ( ) for its core structure.

Lead singer Nate Ruess wrote the lyrics following his "worst drinking night of all time," where he was kicked out of a taxi for vomiting.

The song features a distinct rhythmic shift, moving from a tempo of 116 bpm in the verses to a slower, more deliberate 92 bpm starting at the pre-chorus.

During recording, Bhasker noted that Nate Ruess's multi-tracked vocal harmonies in the chorus gave off a strong Queen and Freddie Mercury vibe. Lyrics & Meaning