Maren DeMargel
Social Media Manager/Graphics Editor
“In this world, it’s just us / You know it’s not the same as it was,” Harry Styles sings in his “Harry’s House” lead single, “As It Was.”
Released on April 1, this powerful, vulnerable, and incredibly dance-able tune foreshadows what promises to be a unique third album for Styles.
This highly anticipated album follows Styles’ chart-topping album “Fine Line” released in 2019.
Regarding “As It Was,” Rob Sheffield of Rolling Stone writes, “It’s the first taste from his astounding new Harry’s House, which is even better than you hope it is.”
So now the question must be asked: will “Harry’s House” be the album of the summer?
The 80s inspired beats and catchy vocals of “As It Was” are definitely a convincing argument on the pro side. Styles’ pop background (namely his years in boyband One Direction) definitely shines through in this song in its repetitive nature that makes it easy to sing along.
The best part about this song though is the depth and vulnerability in Styles’ lyricism. From change, to love, to despair, Styles tackles complex themes all while maintaining the facade of a shallow pop number. In doing this, Styles appeals to the masses, making this a song that anyone can enjoy.
This is definitely not the first time that Styles has foreshadowed an album with a complex and emotionally vulnerable lead single. “Sign of the Times,” lead single for Styles’ debut album, shocked fans when it was first released as it was a complete 180 from his One Direction days. “Lights Up,” the lead single for “Fine Line,” prompted fans to self-reflect, begging the question, “Do you know who you are?”
The albums that followed these singles were chart-toppers, each debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 charts. It can then be inferred that, due to the similarity of this song to Styles’ previous lead singles, “Harry’s House” has no choice but to be the soundtrack of the summer.
With that said, be ready for a summer filled with colorful looks, 60s-70s inspired fashion, and heart-shaped glasses; Harry Styles is back and better than ever.
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Maren DeMargel – Podcast EditorThis will be Maren DeMargel’s first year on ECHO staff, but she made several contributions while taking journalism class her sophomore year. |
