Harry Styles subtly bares it all in “As It Was”
Erskine Records Limited/ Sony Music
Harry Styles has dropped his highly anticipated new song “As It Was” alongside its music video.
The record serves as the lead single from his upcoming third album, Harry’s House. This is the first music he’s released since his 2019 well-received album, Fine Line.
“As It Was” stands out amongst Styles’ previous work; it’s more open and vulnerable and gives a slight glance at Harry’s private life. Despite this, you can’t help but find yourself dancing as the song eventually erupts into drums and synth chimes.
The song starts off with what can only be assumed to be one of Olivia Wilde’s children saying, “Come on, Harry, we wanna say good night to you!”
The song includes a subtle reference to Olivia Wilde herself, who Harry started dating in January 2021 after he was cast alongside her in the movie, Don’t Worry Darling. Their relationship came three months after Wilde’s breakup with her fiance and actor, Jason Sudeikis, whom she shares two kids with. The same kids he sings about (“Leave America, two kids follow her”).
The song also poetically references Harry’s loneliness and mental health issues that stem from his fame and isolate him from the world.
In the music video, which was directed by Tanu Muino, Styles can be seen in a bright red sequined jumpsuit with matching nails as he dances with his partner in a moving circle. It evokes a sense of inner conflict, with Styles literally running in circles trying to reach for his lover. Styles also strips in the video representing the vulnerability setting the tone for his album.
The song is a perfect catchy melancholic pop song that is already being hailed by fans and exciting them for Harry’s upcoming album.
Harry will release his album, Harry’s House, on May 20th.
UPDATE:
Harry has confirmed that the voice we hear at the beginning of the record is one of his godchildren.
Watch the music video for Harry Styles’ “As It Was” below!
