As It Was

The harmonic distinctiveness of 'As It Was' lies in its subversion of the standard I-V-vi-IV pop progression. By utilizing a I-ii-V-IV sequence, it avoids the 'emotional' weight of the vi chord, opting instead for a bright, motoric indie-pop feel. The progression features a 'retrogression' where the Dominant (V) moves to the Subdominant (IV) rather than resolving to the Tonic; this keeps the loop feeling 'unfinished' and circular, mirroring the lyrical themes of feeling stuck and the passage of time.

Written by Harry Styles alongside long-time collaborators Thomas Hull (Kid Harpoon) and Tyler Johnson. The song was the last track written for the album 'Harry’s House' and was created in a quick, instinctive burst of creativity. It explores themes of personal transition and the feeling of things not being the same as they once were.

Serving as the lead single for Styles' third album, Harry’s House, this track became a global phenomenon by blending retro-modern indie-pop with themes of change and isolation. Its record-breaking chart success and infectious melody solidified Harry Styles' status as a premier icon of modern pop music.