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Directed by Shomi Patwary, the video features a highly stylized, cinematic aesthetic:
is the debut breakthrough single by American singer Ava Max , released on August 17, 2018. The track served as the lead single for her debut studio album, Heaven & Hell . Commercial Performance sweet_but_psycho
Ava Max explains the song as being about a person who is often misunderstood; "psycho" in this context refers to being passionate and uninhibited rather than a literal mental health diagnosis. Directed by Shomi Patwary, the video features a
As of early 2026, the song has surpassed 2 billion streams on Spotify and its music video has over 1 billion views on YouTube. Lyrical Meaning & Themes As of early 2026, the song has surpassed
Due to its theatrical pop sound and Max's visual style, she was frequently compared to Lady Gaga.
Critics noted homages to films like The Shining and Fatal Attraction . Critical Reception & Controversy
The song was a massive global hit, reaching number one in . US Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at #10 . UK Singles Chart: Spent four consecutive weeks at #1 .