"Disturbia" is an uptempo dance-pop and electropop song with a "sizzling" beat.
Lyrically, the song is about the experiences of anguish, anxiety and confusion.
The song received positive reviews from music critics, who generally praised its dark musical tone, lyrics and beat, and noted that it is reminiscent of Rihanna's previous single, "Don't Stop the Music" (2007).
"Disturbia" earned Rihanna an award for Best International Song at the 2009 NRJ Music Awards.
The track was nominated for Best Dance Recording at the 2009 Grammy Awards.