Harry Styles Has Brought Timeless Romance to Pop with "As It Was"

Certain songs have an undeniable staying power, and As It Was by Harry Styles is a perfect example. Dropped in 2022 as the lead single from his album Harry’s House, the track swiftly rose to prominence, shattering streaming records and cementing Styles’ status as a contemporary pop sensation. With its introspective lyrics and nostalgic production, As It Was is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

The song opens with a twinkling synth melody, immediately setting a dreamy, almost melancholic tone. Then, Harry’s unmistakable voice comes in, soft but full of emotion:

"Holding me back, gravity’s holding me back…"

Unlike the anthemic, feel-good vibes of Watermelon Sugar, As It Was feels more vulnerable, more reflective. It’s a song about change—about longing for the past while knowing you can’t go back. The lyrics touch on isolation, personal struggles, and the fleeting nature of relationships, yet the production keeps things light and infectious. It’s that contrast—sad lyrics with an upbeat melody—that makes the song so emotionally powerful.

Beyond its sonic appeal, As It Was shattered records, becoming the longest-running No. 1 solo song in Billboard Hot 100 history. It dominated streaming platforms, social media, and radio airwaves, proving that Harry Styles wasn’t just a former boyband star—he was one of the most compelling artists of his generation.

Harry Styles has brought timeless romance to pop with As It Was, blending nostalgia, introspection, and a beat that keeps pulling you back for more. It’s not just a song—it’s a moment in time, capturing the bittersweet feeling of watching life change before your eyes.