The Best Thing (Ivy song)
The Best Thing is a song by American band Ivy from their second studio album, Apartment Life (1997). It was released in September 1997 by Atlantic Records as the band's major-label debut and the lead single from Apartment Life. The track was written by Dominique Durand, Adam Schlesinger, and Andy Chase, and produced by Schlesinger and Chase. A pop song, it features rippling atmospherics, a punk-influenced guitar, and a keyboard-driven chorus. It was recorded in New York City in 1997 at The Place, Duotone Studios, and Compositions.
The single came out in three formats, including a commercial CD single with the album version. There was also a promotional Italy 7" jukebox single that paired The Best Thing with Lilys' A Nanny in Manhattan, and another promotional CD single featuring a Video Remix. Atlantic billed The Best Thing as Ivy’s official debut single and sent it to radio stations on September 12, 1997, hoping for strong airplay.
Although rumors circulated about a music video, none was released. Apartment Life was released on October 7, 1997. The track features backing vocals by James Iha and was mixed by Paul Q. Kolderie and Sean Slade, with Matthew Ellard as assistant mixer and Bob Ludwig mastering.
Critics praised The Best Thing as a standout, calling it catchy and engaging. AllMusic described it as a true single with a memorable chorus, while MTV News and The A.V. Club highlighted its sensual feel and strong opening impact on the album. The chorus repeats the line, “It’s the best thing / She’s ever had,” and the song is noted for its brisk guitar and evocative delivery.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 18:03 (CET).