When Did Instant Crush Come Out? Release Date & Facts

The Story Behind “Instant Crush”: When Did It Come Out?

If you have ever found yourself hypnotized by the melancholic synth-pop vibes and distinct, heavily filtered vocals of “Instant Crush,” you are looking at one of the defining tracks of the early 2010s.

The track was officially released on November 22, 2013, as the fourth single from French electronic music duo Daft Punk’s critically acclaimed fourth studio album, Random Access Memories.

Key Release Facts

• Album Release: May 17, 2013 (Random Access Memories)
• Single Release Date: November 22, 2013
• Collaborator: Julian Casablancas (frontman of The Strokes)
• Record Label: Columbia Records

The Collaboration That Defined a Track

While Random Access Memories was massive right out of the gate in May 2013 thanks to global smashes like “Get Lucky,” tracks like “Instant Crush” took a little longer to drop as official radio singles.

The song came to life when Daft Punk members Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo collaborated with Julian Casablancas. Casablancas not only provided the moody, emotional vocals but also co-wrote the song. The result was a unique blend of organic rock elements and signature electronic processing that immediately resonated with fans of both indie rock and electronic music.

The Unforgettable Music Video

The song’s release was accompanied by a memorable, tragic-romance music video directed by Warren Fu. Released in December 2013, the video features wax figures of soldiers and museum exhibits—including one modeled directly after Casablancas—coming to life, falling in love, and ultimately facing a heartbreaking fate in a museum fire.

More than a decade after its late-2013 release, “Instant Crush” remains a fan favorite, celebrated for its timeless blend of heartbreak and infectious retro-futuristic grooves.