Who Is Adele's "Hello" About?

It's been four long years, but Adele has finally unveiled the first look off her upcoming album 25 as the single "Hello" dropped shortly before midnight on Thursday. Fans have long awaited for new music from the soulful singer ("Skyfall" sort of doesn't really count), and Adele did not disappoint. With its mournful lyrics and dramatic music video, "Hello" really brought out the tears. But who is "Hello" actually about?

The biggest clue comes from an open letter Adele wrote to her fans Wednesday, in which she discusses the inspiration behind 25 . The now 27-year-old singer writes how she has grown from the heartache and bitterness that catapulted her 2011 Grammy Award-winning album 21 into an instant classic.

"My last record was a break-up record and if I had to label this one, I would call it a make-up record. Making up for lost time. Making up for everything I ever did and never did. Turning 25 was a turning point for me, slap bang in the middle of my twenties. Teetering on the edge of being an old adolescent and a fully fledged adult."

The lyrics to "Hello" show Adele calling a past love from "the other side" and trying to apologize for "everything I've done." But that person never picks up. That means there are several options on who exactly Adele is saying "hello" to. Let's put our detective caps on.

It's About Her Ex-Boyfriend

More likely than not, the song is a continuation of the themes of love long lost that made 21 such a hit with fans. The guy who inspired 21 and singles like "Rolling In The Deep" and "Someone Like You" was never 100 percent confirmed, but many believe Mr. 21 to be photographer Alex Sturrock based on a report from UK tabloid Heat. There were some rumblings in the past about her ex-boyfriend seeking royalties since their relationship provided much of the material for her success. As ridiculous as that was, "Hello" could be her way of trying to make amends or getting closure from their tumultuous relationship.

It's About Her Current Boyfriend

Adele has been dating entrepreneur Simon Konecki since 2012, and they had a son, Angelo James Konecki, in October of that year. They've long battled break-up rumors, though they've denied they're splitting up as recently as this past June. Still, the album is supposed to be a snapshot of Adele's life from two years ago, and perhaps this was written during a rough patch.

It's About Adele

Adele is one of the most introspective artists out there, and I wouldn't be surprised if "Hello" is a full-on conversation with herself. This is supposed to be a make-up album, and the first step in moving on is being OK with yourself. "Hello" could be her way of saying sorry to past Adele as she looks forward to better things in her life.

Regardless of who "Hello" is about, cheers to the singer-songstress for her big return. 25 is said to be Adele's last age-numbered album, and why not? She's given snapshots of her life and plenty of material for how to navigate the turbulent years of our young adult lives. Let's just hope it won't be another four years until her next project. 25 will be available for purchase Nov. 20.

Images: XL