During the live recording of "Use Somebody" on David Letterman, Kings of Leon was enjoying significant success following the release of their fourth studio album, "Only by the Night," which came out in September 2008. This album marked a pivotal moment in their career, propelling them to mainstream fame with hits like "Use Somebody" and "Sex on Fire." By the time of this performance, the band had been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, affirming their rapidly rising status in the rock music scene. The live rendition of "Use Somebody" showcased their melodic prowess and the emotional delivery typical of their music, which resonated well with audiences. This performance also highlighted the band's ability to translate their studio sound to live settings, contributing to their reputation as a powerful live act.