It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Harry Styles. I was obsessed with his debut album and even more obsessed with Fine Line. Suffice it to say I have high expectations for Harry’s House, and I was extremely nervous when Styles announced that he would be dropping his new single, “As It Was,” on April 1. I wondered how it could possibly compare to my favorite songs from his past albums.
I should have known to never doubt Harry Styles because “As it Was” did not disappoint. I listened to it obsessively when it came out, addicted to its upbeat and cheerful melody.
I’m definitely no expert on music. Actually, my musical knowledge starts and ends with the choir classes I took in middle school. However, I am a professional when it comes to Harry Styles. Below, I’ve shared my thoughts on his latest single.
‘As it Was’ Is about embracing change
In a rare interview, Styles discussed “As It Was,” telling listeners that “the song is about metamorphosis, embracing change and former self, perspective shift and all that kind of stuff.”
What change is Styles embracing? We’ll probably never know for sure, as Styles has previously spoken about his desire to keep his professional and personal life separate.
However, some fans speculate that the song is about Olivia Wilde, with Styles comparing this new, positive relationship to toxic entanglements of the past. Maybe Styles is trying to say that his life isn’t the same “as it was,” since he met Wilde. Many lines point to this possibility, namely the lyrics “leave America, two kids follow her,” which could be referring to Wilde traveling between America and London to visit Styles.
In my humble opinion, the song is about Styles’ childhood, and how he’s changed and grown since he skyrocketed into fame. Style’s life isn’t the same as it was, but he’s embracing this change and finding himself amid the demands of stardom.
It’s incredibly Nostalgic
The 80’s synth-pop beat of the song is reminiscent of past music, giving “As It Was” a nostalgic vibe. This mood is emphasized through the recording of his god-daughter at the beginning of the song. Personally, this audio clip reminds me of childhood and the sentimental feelings that come along with it.
This wistful tone remains throughout the chorus as Styles sings, “In this world, it’s just us / You know it’s not the same as it was.” Through this verse, Styles reflects on his own past and gives us a chance to do the same.
Overall, listening to the song makes me feel nostalgic for my childhood, yet also happy and hopeful for the future. Life isn’t the same as it was, but this isn’t necessarily bad, life will continue to change and improve in exciting ways.
It’s The Perfect summer anthem
The cheerful beat of “As It Was”, makes this song perfect for the upcoming summer. I’ve already added it to my summer Spotify playlist in preparation, and I can’t wait to play it over and over again once the weather starts warming up. “As It Was” is the perfect song to listen to while tanning by the pool or driving to the lake.
It’s Surprisingly emotional
Don’t let the happy facade of the song fool you, “As It Was” is deeply emotional. Styles gives listeners a look into his inner world, singing “Answer the phone / ‘Harry, you’re no good alone’ / Why are you sitting at home on the floor? / What kind of pills are you on?” Perhaps Styles is lamenting the way his life used to be, and at the same time emphasizing all the ways it has transformed for the better.
Overall, I loved this song, and I’m anxiously anticipating the release of Harry’s House on May 20. I’m sure the rest of the album will be just as amazing as “As It Was.”