JP Saxe and Julia Michaels released their hit duet "If the World Was Ending" on October 17, 2019. Written alongside producer Ryan Tedder just weeks prior, the track became a global phenomenon as its apocalyptic lyrical theme accidentally mirrored the isolation and introspection felt worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic months later.
The song arrived as part of JP Saxe's debut major-label EP Hold It Together. Rather than following a conventional radio formula, the stripped-down piano ballad gained viral momentum through streaming platforms and social media, eventually earning a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year in 2021.
The Writing and Recording Process
The creation of the track happened quickly in a Los Angeles studio. JP Saxe and Julia Michaels, who were close friends before entering a romantic relationship, teamed up with songwriter and producer Ryan Tedder to brainstorm concepts. The core premise stemmed from a simple, provocative question: if an apocalypse were genuinely happening right outside your door, would you reach out to an ex?
- Initial Concept: JP Saxe brought the opening lines and the piano progression into the session.
- Collaboration: Julia Michaels helped shape the conversational cadence, ensuring the back-and-forth vocals felt authentic to modern heartbreak.
- Production: The arrangement stays intentionally sparse, featuring acoustic piano and subtle atmospheric synths to keep the emotional vulnerability front and center.
Recording took only a single afternoon. Both artists channeled past relationships into their vocal performances, resulting in raw takes that made the final master track. As discussed in recent reports by Reuters, the effects are worth noting.
Release Strategy and Viral Growth
When the single dropped in October 2019, it didn't instantly dominate mainstream radio charts. Instead, it built an organic audience. Music critics praised the stark honesty of the lyrics, while listeners resonated with the specific vulnerability of wondering if an old flame is safe during a crisis.
As lockdowns swept across the globe in early 2020, the song experienced a massive surge in streams. Fans began sharing acoustic home performances and TikTok clips using the chorus. To support this momentum, the artists released an official quarantine music video in May 2020, featuring split-screen cameos from various celebrity friends—including Katy Perry, Alessia Cara, and Niall Horan—all singing from their respective homes. This visual project cemented the track as the unofficial anthem of early pandemic isolation.
Chart Performance and Accolades
The slow-burn success translated into major commercial milestones across international music charts.
- Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at number 27, maintaining a multi-week presence on the charts through 2020.
- Canadian Hot 100: Reached the top 15, supported by heavy airplay in Saxe's home country.
- Certifications: Achieved multi-platinum status in the United States, Canada, Australia, and several European markets.
The peak of its critical recognition arrived at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards, where the track received a nomination for Song of the Year, competing against major releases from artists like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote If the World Was Ending?
The song was written by JP Saxe, Julia Michaels, and Ryan Tedder.
Are JP Saxe and Julia Michaels still together?
The two artists began dating shortly after recording the collaboration. While their romantic relationship ended amicably in 2020, they have continued to support each other's musical careers.
What album is the song on?
It was originally released on JP Saxe's 2019 EP Hold It Together and was later included on his 2021 full-length debut album, Dangerous Levels of Introspection.
Is there an official music video?
Yes, two versions exist. The original narrative music video features the duo walking through a ruined, stormy city street, while the viral quarantine version features remote split-screen appearances from famous musician friends.
