1000 Forms of Fear is a studio album by Australian singer-songwriter Sia, released in 2014. The record marked a commercial and artistic turning point: it brought Sia back into the pop spotlight after years as a behind‑the‑scenes writer for other artists. The album is best known for its lead single "Chandelier," which became an international hit and introduced the distinctive visual language—masked performances and interpretive dance—that accompanied Sia's redefined public image.

Musical style and themes

The album blends pop, electropop and art‑pop textures with emotionally charged, often confessional lyrics. Tracks range from cathartic anthems to quieter ballads, united by Sia's dramatic vocal delivery and themes of vulnerability, addiction, isolation and the pressures of fame. Production favors bold hooks, layered synths and dynamic crescendos that frame Sia's voice as the central instrument.

Creation and collaborators

Much of the record was written or co‑written by Sia and developed with high‑profile producers. Greg Kurstin was a primary collaborator, helping shape several of the album's most prominent tracks. The songs originated from Sia's personal experiences and songwriting craftsmanship, honed during a decade of composing for other pop stars.

Singles, visuals and promotion

  • "Chandelier" — breakout single; its music video featuring dancer Maddie Ziegler became iconic and helped propel the song worldwide.
  • "Elastic Heart" and "Big Girls Cry" — additional singles that further showcased Sia's theatrical videos and choreography.

Rather than conventional publicity, Sia used concealing wigs and substituted dancers to maintain privacy while delivering striking visual narratives that amplified the music.

Reception and legacy

Critics praised the album for its songwriting and powerful vocals, and it achieved wide commercial success, including a high debut on the US album charts. "Chandelier" earned multiple award nominations and remains one of Sia's signature songs. 1000 Forms of Fear repositioned Sia as a major pop artist and influenced subsequent artists who blend emotive songwriting with artful visual presentation.