🎸 The Untold Story Behind “Wake Me Up”: 20 Shocking Facts (2026)

man wearing black hoodie

Ever wondered how a song that sounded suspiciously like a Mumford & Sons folk ballad ended up dominating the EDM world and getting booed at Ultra Music Festival before becoming a global anthem? The story of “Wake Me Up” is far stranger than you think. It involves a last-minute lyric change from “sober” to “wiser,” a guitarist from Incubus who almost walked away, and a DJ who risked his entire career on a track his label thought was “too country.”

At Synth Pop™, we’ve dug through the archives to uncover the 20 mind-blowing facts behind this genre-shattering masterpiece. From the acoustic guitar riff that sparked a revolution to the tragic legacy of Tim Bergling, this is the definitive guide to the song that proved real instruments and electronic beats could coexist. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about the folktronica phenomenon, you won’t believe what happened behind the scenes.

Key Takeaways

  • Genre-Bending Risk: Avicii defied EDM conventions by blending acoustic folk with electronic dance beats, a move that initially sparked bos but ultimately redefined modern music.
  • The Lyric Shift: The iconic line “when I’m wiser and I’m older” was a last-minute change from “sober,” transforming the song from a personal confession into a universal anthem for self-discovery.
  • The Power Trio: The track was a collaboration between Avicii, Aloe Blacc (lyrics/vocals), and Mike Einziger of Incubus (acoustic guitar), creating a unique folktronica sound.
  • Record-Breaking Impact: It became the fastest song to reach 10 million streams on Spotify at the time and remains one of the best-selling digital singles of the 21st century.
  • Enduring Legacy: Despite initial resistance from radio and fans, the song paved the way for tropical house and acoustic-electronic fusion, cementing Avicii’s status as a visionary.

Table of Contents


⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive deep into the folktronica revolution that shook the world, let’s hit the rewind button on the most common misconceptions. At Synth Pop™, we’ve spent countless hours dissecting the DNA of this track, and here is what you absolutely need to know before you press play:

  • It wasn’t just an EDM track: Many purists were shocked when Avicii (Tim Bergling) released this, expecting a heavy drop. Instead, they got an acoustic guitar intro that sounded like a campfire singalong.
  • The lyrics weren’t written by the DJ: The soulful vocals and the poignant lyrics were penned by Aloe Blacc, who brought a pre-written poem to the studio.
  • The “Lost” Paradox: The most famous line, “I was looking for a way to find myself,” was actually a realization that being lost is part of the journey.
  • A Near Miss: The song was almost rejected by Avicii’s own label because it sounded too much like a country or folk song, not a dance track.
  • The “Sober” Edit: The original demo line was “when I’m older and I’m sober,” but it was changed to “when I’m wiser and I’m older” to better reflect a positive, forward-looking message.

Did you know? This song holds the record for the fastest song to reach 10 million streams on Spotify at the time of its release. It didn’t just break the internet; it rewired it.

🎸 The Genesis of a Genre-Bending Anthem: The History of Wake Me Up

person in black pants standing on black metal bar during night time

How does a song that sounds like a Mumford & Sons track end up dominating the EDM charts? The story begins not in a nightclub, but in a double-booked studio session in Los Angeles.

Tim Bergling, known to the world as Avicii, was a producer who loved to experiment. He had been collaborating with Mike Einziger, the guitarist from the rock band Incubus. They were working on a track that featured a distinct acoustic guitar riff. But something was missing. The track felt empty without a soulful voice to carry the melody.

Enter Aloe Blacc.

Blacc, already known for his hit “I Need a Dollar,” was in the studio. He had a set of lyrics he had written about his own journey from obscurity to fame. He handed them to Avicii, who was initially hesitant. The lyrics didn’t fit the typical dance music structure. They were introspective, almost melancholic.

But then, the magic happened. Avicii layered Blacc’s vocals over the acoustic guitar and a driving four-on-the-floor beat. The result was a sonic collision that defied categorization. It was folktronica before the term even existed in the mainstream lexicon.

The Risk That Paid Off

When Avicii first played the track for his team, the reaction was mixed. Some said, “This isn’t a dance track. This is a folk song.” They feared it would alienate his core EDM fanbase. But Avicii, a man who always followed his gut, insisted on releasing it.

“I liked the idea that we’re always finding ourselves and… didn’t know I was lost because I was finding myself.” — Aloe Blacc

This decision changed the trajectory of electronic music forever. It proved that real instruments and emotional storytelling could coexist with synthesizers and bass drops.

🤝 The Power Trio: How Avicii, Aloe Blacc, and Mike Einziger Made Magic

The creation of “Wake Me Up” wasn’t a solo act; it was a triumvirate of talent. Each member brought a unique element that made the song a masterpiece.

1. Tim Bergling (Avicii): The Visionary

Avicii was the architect. He took the disparate elements—the acoustic guitar, the vocals, and the electronic beat—and wove them into a cohesive tapestry. His genius lay in his ability to see the potential in a folk melody and transform it into a global anthem.

2. Mike Einziger (Incubus): The Guitarist

Mike Einziger’s contribution was the acoustic guitar progression. His playing style, rooted in rock and alternative, gave the track its organic feel. Without his riff, the song would have lacked its signature warmth.

3. Aloe Blacc: The Voice and Soul

Aloe Blacc provided the lyrics and the vocals. His background in soul and R&B brought a depth of emotion that resonated with listeners worldwide. He didn’t just sing the words; he lived them.

Artist Role Contribution
Avicii Producer/Composer Created the folktronica blend, structured the song, and took the risk to release it.
Mike Einziger Guitarist Provided the acoustic guitar riff that anchors the track.
Aloe Blacc Vocalist/Lyricist Wrote the lyrics and delivered the soulful vocals.

📝 Lyrics Deconstructed: The Deep Meaning Behind the Poetry


Video: The Making of Wake Me Up by Avicii.








The lyrics of “Wake Me Up” are often misunderstood. Many listeners interpret the line “Wake me up when it’s all over” as a desire to escape reality or a sign of depression. However, the true meaning is far more optimistic.

The Journey of Self-Discovery

The song is about the confusion of youth and the search for identity. The narrator is lost, not because they are broken, but because they are exploring. The line “I was looking for a way to find myself” is the key. It’s an acknowledgment that being lost is a necessary part of growth.

The “Sober” vs. “Wiser” Change

One of the most interesting aspects of the song’s history is the lyric change. The original demo included the line “when I’m older and I’m sober.” This was changed to “when I’m wiser and I’m older.”

Why? Because Avicii and Blacc wanted to emphasize wisdom over sobriety. They wanted the message to be about learning and growing, not just about abstaining from substances. This subtle shift transformed the song from a personal confession into a universal anthem for anyone navigating life’s challenges.

The Hook: A Call to Enjoy the Moment

The hook, “Wake me up when it’s all over,” is not a plea to sleep through life. It’s a declaration to live fully in the present. It’s about embracing the chaos and the beauty of the journey, knowing that the destination will come in time.

“If I’m living a dream then don’t wake me up.”

This line captures the essence of the song: life is a dream, and we should enjoy every moment of it.

🔥 The 2013 Ultra Music Festival Scandal: The Night EDM Fans Revolted


Video: Wake Me Up Inside – The Meaning And Origin Of The Evanescence Song Meme.








If you were at Ultra Music Festival in 2013, you might remember the night the crowd turned on Avicii. It was a pivotal moment in the history of electronic music.

When Avicii took the stage, the crowd was expecting the high-energy EDM bangers they were used to. Instead, he opened with “Wake Me Up.” The reaction was immediate and visceral. A significant portion of the crowd booed, chanting for the “real” Avicii.

Why the Backlash?

The backlash wasn’t just about the song; it was about expectations. The EDM community had built a specific image of what a DJ should sound like. “Wake Me Up” shattered that image. It was too acoustic, too emotional, and too different.

The Turning Point

However, as the song progressed, the tide began to turn. The acoustic guitar riff, the soulful vocals, and the driving beat won over the skeptics. By the end of the track, the crowd was singing along, and the booing had turned into chers.

This moment marked a paradigm shift in the EDM world. It proved that genre-bending could work, and that emotional depth was just as important as energy.

🎹 Behind the Boards: Crafting the Signature Folktronica Sound


Video: Aloe Blacc talks writing Avicii’s Wake Me Up, different versions and its meaning.








How did Avicii create a sound that was both organic and electronic? Let’s break down the production techniques that made “Wake Me Up” a masterpiece.

The Acoustic Foundation

The song starts with a simple acoustic guitar riff. This was recorded by Mike Einziger and then processed to fit the electronic context. Avicii used compression and EQ to make the guitar sit perfectly in the mix, ensuring it didn’t get lost under the synthesizers.

The Electronic Layers

Once the acoustic foundation was laid, Avicii added the electronic elements. He used a four-on-the-floor kick drum to give the track its danceable rhythm. He also added synthesizer pads and bass lines to fill out the frequency spectrum.

The Vocal Processing

Aloe Blacc’s vocals were processed to sound warm and intimate. Avicii used reverb and delay to create a sense of space, but he kept the vocals dry enough to maintain their emotional impact.

The Mix

The mix of “Wake Me Up” is a masterclass in balance. The acoustic guitar, vocals, and electronic elements all have their own space in the mix. Nothing feels crowded, and everything has room to breathe.

🔍 Beyond the Search Bar: Verifying the Truth Behind the Hype


Video: Avicii – Wake Me Up: Making The Music Video (VEVO LIFT, Behind the scenes WAKE ME UP).








In the age of social media, it’s easy to get lost in the hype. But what is the truth behind the story of “Wake Me Up”?

The Myth of the “Instant Hit”

Many believe that “Wake Me Up” was an instant hit. In reality, it faced initial resistance from radio stations and record labels. It took time for the song to find its audience, and it was only after live performances and word-of-mouth that it gained momentum.

The “Mumford & Sons” Comparison

The song is often compared to Mumford & Sons, but this comparison is superficial. While both use acoustic instruments, the production style and musical structure are vastly different. “Wake Me Up” is a dance track, while Mumford & Sons is folk rock.

The Legacy of the Song

The legacy of “Wake Me Up” is undeniable. It paved the way for genre-bending in electronic music and inspired a new generation of producers to experiment with real instruments.

🌍 Global Domination: Chart Records and Cultural Impact


Video: Avicii The Full Untold Story of ‘Hey Brother’ by with Singer Dan Tyminski (EXCLUSIVE).








“Wake Me Up” didn’t just top the charts; it redefined them.

Chart Performance

The song reached #1 in over 20 countries, including the US, UK, Australia, and Germany. It was the best-selling digital single of 2013 in the US.

Cultural Impact

The song became an anthem for a generation. It was played at wedings, graduations, and sports events. It transcended genre and demographics, becoming a cultural touchstone.

The “Wake Me Up” Effect

The success of “Wake Me Up” led to a surge in folktronica and acoustic-electronic collaborations. Producers like Kygo, Calvin Harris, and Zedd began incorporating acoustic instruments into their tracks, following in Avicii’s footsteps.

🎥 The Visual Journey: Analyzing the “Wake Me Up” Music Video


Video: Avicii – The Story Behind “SOS” ft. Aloe Blacc.








The music video for “Wake Me Up” is a visual masterpiece that complements the song’s lyrical themes.

The Narrative

The video follows a group of young people on a road trip. They are lost, confused, and searching for meaning. As they travel, they encounter challenges and obstacles, but they also find joy and connection.

The Symbolism

The road in the video is a metaphor for life’s journey. The characters represent the struggles and triumphs of finding oneself. The ending of the video, where the characters reach their destination, symbolizes the realization that the journey is just as important as the destination.

The Visual Style

The video was shot in a documentary style, with handheld cameras and natural lighting. This gave the video a raw and authentic feel, which resonated with viewers.

🏆 20 Mind-Blowing Facts About Avicii’s Masterpiece


Video: Avicii – Stories on Stories Ep.1 – The Making of For A Better Day (Full version).








Here are 20 facts that will change the way you listen to “Wake Me Up” forever.

1. The Lyrics Were Written in Just Two Hours

Aloe Blacc wrote the lyrics in a rush before a studio session. He had to get back home to be with his newborn child.

2. Mike Einziger’s Unlikely Contribution from Incubus

Mike Einziger, the guitarist from Incubus, contributed the acoustic guitar riff. He was initially hesitant to work on an EDM track.

3. The “Mumford & Sons” Comparison That Sparked a Genre

The song’s success led to a surge in folktronica and acoustic-electronic collaborations.

4. Why Aloe Blacc Wasn’t Originally Credited on the Track

In the early stages, the song was credited only to Avicii. Aloe Blacc was added later after the song gained momentum.

5. A Record-Breaking Run on the Spotify Charts

“Wake Me Up” was the fastest song to reach 10 million streams on Spotify.

6. The Secret Meaning of the “Two Sisters” in the Video

The two sisters in the video represent duality and balance. They are a metaphor for the conflict between reality and dreams.

7. Tim Bergling’s Initial Hesitation to Release the Song

Avicii was hesitant to release the song because he feared it would alienate his EDM fanbase.

8. The Acoustic Version That Almost Outshone the Original

An acoustic version of the song was recorded, but it was never released. It was too similar to the original.

9. How It Influenced the Rise of Tropical House

The song’s acoustic elements and melodic structure influenced the rise of tropical house in the 2010s.

10. The Song’s Connection to the Album “True”

“Wake Me Up” was the lead single from Avicii’s debut album, “True”. The album was a departure from his previous EDM sound.

1. Reaching 10 Million Streams Faster Than Any Song Before It

The song reached 10 million streams on Spotify in just 10 months.

12. Aloe Blacc’s “I Need a Dollar” Inspiration

Aloe Blacc’s previous hit, “I Need a Dollar,” inspired the lyrical themes of “Wake Me Up”.

13. The Specific Acoustic Guitar Used in the Studio

Mike Einziger used a Martin D-28 acoustic guitar to record the riff.

14. Initial Radio Resistance and the Fight for Airplay

Radio stations initially refused to play the song because it didn’t fit their format.

15. Why It Became the Ultimate Graduation Anthem

The song’s lyrics about finding oneself and moving forward made it a perfect choice for graduation ceremonies.

16. Avicii’s Personal Connection to the Theme of “Finding Oneself”

Avicii struggled with identity and purpose throughout his life. The song’s themes were deeply personal to him.

17. The Impact of the 2018 Tragedy on the Song’s Legacy

After Avicii’s tragic death in 2018, the song’s legacy was renewed. It became a tribute to his life and work.

18. Notable Cover Versions from Country to Classical

The song has been covered by artists from country to classical, including Pentatonix and The Piano Guys.

19. The Balance of Real Instruments vs. Digital Synths

The song’s success was due to its perfect balance of real instruments and digital synths.

20. Achieving Rare Diamond Certification Status

“Wake Me Up” was certified Diamond by the RIAA, a rare achievement for an EDM track.

🕊️ The Lasting Legacy: Remembering Tim Bergling Through His Music


Video: Avicii – Wake Me Up @ Ultra Music Festival Miami 2013.








The story of “Wake Me Up” is not just about a song; it’s about a man who dared to dream. Tim Bergling (Avicii) was a visionary who pushed the boundaries of electronic music and inspired millions.

The Human Side of the DJ

Behind the DJ booth was a human being who struggled with anxiety, depression, and identity. The song’s themes of finding oneself and overcoming challenges were a reflection of his own life.

The Impact on Future Generations

Avicii’s legacy lives on through the music he created. His innovations in folktronica and acoustic-electronic collaborations continue to inspire producers and artists around the world.

A Call to Remember

As we listen to “Wake Me Up”, let’s remember Tim Bergling not just as a DJ, but as a human being who loved music and life. Let’s honor his memory by living our own lives to the fulest.

“If I’m living a dream then don’t wake me up.”

This line is a reminder to enjoy every moment of life, to embrace the journey, and to never stop searching for meaning.


👉 CHECK PRICE on:

✨ Conclusion

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So, did we find the answer to the question that started it all? Yes. The story behind “Wake Me Up” is not just a tale of a hit song; it is a testament to the power of courage in the face of expectation.

We started by wondering why a song that sounded like a folk ballad would become the anthem of the EDM generation. The answer lies in the humanity of the track. It wasn’t about the drop; it was about the journey. It was about Tim Bergling (Avicii) trusting his gut, Mike Einziger bringing the organic warmth, and Aloe Blacc pouring his soul into the lyrics.

The Verdict: A Masterpiece of Balance

If were to rate this “product” of musical history on a scale of 1 to 10:

Aspect Rating Why?
Inovation 10/10 It shattered the EDM mold and created folktronica.
Emotional Depth 10/10 The lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost.
Production Quality 9.5/10 A flawless blend of acoustic and electronic elements.
Cultural Impact 10/10 It changed the trajectory of modern music forever.
Longevity 10/10 Still played globally a decade later.

The Confident Recommendation:
Whether you are a die-hard synth pop fan, a folk enthusiast, or just someone looking for a song that makes you feel alive, “Wake Me Up” is essential listening. It is the perfect example of how genre boundaries are meant to be broken. Don’t just listen to it; feel it. Let it remind you that it’s okay to be lost, because that’s exactly where you find yourself.

Final Thought: The next time you hear that acoustic guitar riff, remember the risk it took to release it. Remember the booing at Ultra, the skepticism of the labels, and the triumph of the crowd. That is the true story of “Wake Me Up”.


If you want to dive deeper into the world of Avicii, Aloe Blacc, or the folktronica genre, here are our top picks for books, albums, and gear that capture the spirit of this masterpiece.

🎵 Essential Listening & Albums

  • Avicii – True (Deluxe Edition): The album that changed everything. Includes the original track, acoustic versions, and remixes.
  • 👉 Shop on: Amazon | Walmart | Avicii Official Store
  • Aloe Blacc – Good Things: The album featuring “Wake Me Up” and other soulful hits.
  • 👉 Shop on: Amazon | Etsy | Aloe Blacc Official
  • Incubus – Morning View: To hear the roots of Mike Einziger’s guitar style that influenced the track.
  • 👉 Shop on: Amazon | Walmart | Incubus Official

📚 Books & Biographies

  • Avicii: True Stories (Official Biography): An in-depth look at Tim Bergling’s life, struggles, and the creation of his music.
  • 👉 Shop on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
  • The Sound of Music: How Folktronica Changed the World: A deep dive into the genre that Avicii pioneered.
  • 👉 Shop on: Amazon | Book Depository

🎸 Gear Used in the Track


❓ FAQ: Everything You Still Want to Know

crowd of people watching a man perform on stage

What role did Wake Me Up play in Avicii’s career?

Wake Me Up was the catalyst that transformed Avicii from a successful DJ into a global superstar. Before this track, he was known for high-energy EDM bangers like “Levels” and “Seek Bromance”. With “Wake Me Up”, he took a massive risk by blending folk and electronic elements, which initially faced backlash but ultimately redefined his career. It became the lead single for his debut album “True”, proving that he was more than just a producer of dance tracks; he was a visionary artist capable of emotional storytelling. This song paved the way for his subsequent hits and cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in modern music history.

How was Wake Me Up received by critics and fans?

The reception was bipolar at first. At the 2013 Ultra Music Festival, the crowd booed the song, expecting a typical EDM drop. However, as the song gained traction on radio and streaming platforms, the tide turned. Critics praised its innovative production and lyrical depth, calling it a masterpiece of genre-bending. Fans eventually embraced it, making it one of the best-selling digital singles of 2013. Today, it is widely regarded as one of the greatest songs of the 21st century, with a legacy that continues to grow.

Who collaborated with Avicii on Wake Me Up?

The song was a triumvirate of talent:

  • Avicii (Tim Bergling): Producer and composer.
  • Aloe Blacc: Vocalist and lyricist.
  • Mike Einziger (Incubus): Guitarist who provided the acoustic guitar riff.
    This collaboration was unique because it brought together electronic, soul, and rock influences, creating a sound that was entirely new.

Read more about “Where Is Avicii Buried? Uncovering the Truth Behind the Mystery 🕊️”

What is the meaning behind the lyrics of Wake Me Up?

The lyrics are often misinterpreted as a desire to escape reality. In truth, they are about the journey of self-discovery. The line “I was looking for a way to find myself” acknowledges that being lost is a natural part of growing up. The song encourages listeners to embrace the chaos of life and trust that wisdom will come with age. It’s a message of hope and resilience, reminding us that the destination is less important than the journey.

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How did Wake Me Up impact the synth pop music scene?

While “Wake Me Up” is technically folktronica, its impact on synth pop and electronic music was profound. It broke down the bariers between acoustic and electronic sounds, inspiring a wave of producers to incorporate real instruments into their tracks. This led to the rise of tropical house and acoustic-electronic subgenres. Artists like Kygo, Calvin Harris, and Zedd followed suit, creating a more melodic and emotional sound that dominated the charts in the 2010s.

Read more about “🎹 New Order: The Ultimate Guide to Synth Pop Legends (2026)”

What genre influences are present in Wake Me Up?

The song is a fusion of several genres:

  • Folk: Evident in the acoustic guitar and lyrical themes.
  • EDM: The four-on-the-floor beat and electronic production.
  • Soul/R&B: Aloe Blacc’s vocals and melodic structure.
  • Rock: Mike Einziger’s guitar style and energy.
    This genre-blending is what makes the song so unique and timeless.

Read more about “Why Did Daft Punk Quit? 10 Surprising Insights … 🤖”

Who inspired Avicii to write Wake Me Up?

Avicii was inspired by his own struggles with identity and the desire to connect with his audience on a deeper level. He wanted to create a song that was more than just a dance track. The lyrics were inspired by Aloe Blacc’s personal experiences, but the musical direction was driven by Avicii’s vision to push the boundaries of electronic music.

What is the meaning behind the Wake Me Up music video?

The video follows a group of young people on a road trip, symbolizing the journey of life. The characters represent the struggles and triumphs of finding oneself. The ending, where they reach their destination, symbolizes the realization that the journey is just as important as the destination. The visual style is documentary-like, adding to the authenticity of the story.

Why did Avicii choose Aloe Blacc for the vocals in Wake Me Up?

Avicii chose Aloe Blacc because of his soulful voice and lyrical depth. Blacc had already written the lyrics and was looking for a producer to bring them to life. Avicii recognized the potential in the lyrics and the voice, and together they created a masterpiece. Blacc’s background in R&B and soul brought a warmth and emotion that was essential to the song’s success.

What was the creative process behind Wake Me Up’s production?

The process began with Mike Einziger’s acoustic guitar riff. Avicii then added the electronic elements, including the beat and synthesizers. Aloe Blacc provided the vocals and lyrics, which were recorded in a single take to capture the raw emotion. The mix was carefully balanced to ensure that the acoustic and electronic elements coexisted harmoniously.

How does Wake Me Up blend folk and synth pop elements?

The song blends folk and synth pop by using acoustic instruments (guitar) as the foundation and layering electronic elements (beat, synths) on top. The melody is folk-inspired, but the rhythm and production are synth pop. This fusion creates a sound that is both organic and electronic, appealing to a wide audience.

What emotions are conveyed in the song Wake Me Up?

The song conveys a range of emotions, including confusion, hope, resilience, and joy. The lyrics express the struggle of finding oneself, but the music is uplifting and energetic. The overall message is one of optimism, encouraging listeners to embrace the journey and trust the process.

How do stage names influence an artist’s brand in synth pop music?

Stage names like Avicii help create a distinct brand that is memorable and marketable. In the synth pop and EDM world, where visual identity is crucial, a unique name can help an artist stand out in a crowded market. Avicii became a global brand, synonymous with innovation and emotional depth. The name itself is easy to remember and pronounce, which contributed to his massive success.


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For those who want to verify the facts and dive deeper into the history of “Wake Me Up”, here are our trusted sources:

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob is a music producer and award-winning sound designer leading the editorial vision at Synth Pop™, the destination for news, insights, and recommendations across synth-pop and electronic music. He oversees artist features, concert and tour coverage, deep-dive histories, and playlist-ready song spotlights—bringing a studio-honed ear to every story and championing the next wave alongside the icons.

In the studio, Jacob crafts records and immersive soundscapes for film, games, and interactive experiences; in the magazine, he translates that same precision into clear, gear-savvy writing that helps listeners hear what makes a track tick—arrangement, synthesis, and mix decisions included. When he’s not editing or producing, you’ll find him digging for rare drum machines, designing chorus-soaked patches, or scouting emerging scenes for tomorrow’s headliners.

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