Bad Day was written and performed by Canadian singer-songwriter Daniel Powter and released in 2005. The piano-driven single became an international hit, then gained further recognition in the United States when American Idol used it during contestant elimination montages in 2006. Its direct chorus and emotional theme made it easy to apply to many situations. Online creators continue using excerpts to frame failures, disappointing outcomes, unlucky moments, and exaggerated reactions with a mix of sincerity and irony.