Ellie Goulding is about to release the brooding 'Figure 8' as her next single. The slow-burning pop song will hit U.K. retailers on Dec. 16, according to Goulding herself, who tweeted the news along with the cover art, which shows a close-up of the singer pensively staring into the distance.

Built around piano and electronics, 'Figure 8' has a moody vibe that matches its heartbreaking lyrics. Goulding sings, "I chased your love around a figure 8 / I need you more than I can take / You promised forever and a day and then you take it all away / And then you take it all away." The song was co-produced by Mike Spencer, who also co-produced Alex Clare's 'Too Close,' which has a similar dubstep-inspired chorus beat.

'Figure 8' has at least one big fan: Greg James, the DJ who dated Goulding for two years and inspired her 'Halcyon' album. Goulding said, "Greg and I are still friends... That period in our lives has passed now. We’ve moved on. He texted me the other day to say that he really liked 'Figure 8.'"

Goulding's first single from 'Halcyon' was 'Anything Could Happen,' which went Top 5 in the U.K. but unfortunately flamed out at No. 58 in the U.S. The album debuted at No. 9, showing fans are still interested in the singer's work beyond just the smash hit 'Lights.' Goulding brings her live show to America for a winter tour starting in Miami in January.

Listen to Ellie Goulding, 'Figure 8'

More From 100.5 FM The River