Harry Styles won Album of the Year, Beyonce became Grammy history’s most nominated artist and many music greats gave unforgettable performances. But one moment that stood out the most was at the end when one of Harry’s biggest fans presented him with his award – truly an iconic moment in music history.
Harry Styles – As It Was
Styles is one of the most successful artists in modern times. He began as a contestant on “The X Factor” before joining boy band One Direction and later launched his solo music career with his debut single “Sign of the Times,” which topped the U.K. Singles Chart and set an unprecedented sales week for any British male artist in two decades – “Sign of the Times.”
After releasing his self-titled album in 2017, he continued touring and performing in several television appearances. Additionally, he became a movie star by appearing in war drama Dunkirk and romantic drama Don’t Worry Darling. Most recently, he will star in My Policeman starring Sandra Bullock.
His new single, “As It Was,” is the first release from his forthcoming album Harry’s House. A synth-heavy anthem that captures summer vibes while offering an honest look into the singer’s life, “As It Was” offers both.
This song tells the tale of Harry’s struggle to cope with his feelings of pain and loneliness. He attempts to avoid sharing these emotions, instead keeping them hidden away from others.
Though not an uncommon subject in music, Styles appears to be masterfully handling it. In his song, he sings: “It was like that but it was as it was / I was a stranger and you were my friend.”
It appears to be addressing his relationship with Taylor Swift, as the song references a breakup and then seemingly returning to each other. Though less overt than their previous songs, this one serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional ups and downs that come with relationships.
Furthermore, the lyrics refer to a desolate father who has lost contact with his child and is reaching out for assistance. This could be seen as an allusion to Styles’ parents, who divorced when he was seven.
The lyrics in “As It Was” are not only a testament to the strength and resilience of humanity, but also an important reminder that seeking help is the best way to cope with grief. Whether you’re dealing with a broken heart or trying to move on from an unhealthy relationship, knowing there are people out there who care about you can be comforting. Even if it’s difficult finding them, do it – it will be worth it in the end.
Steve Lacy – Bad Habit
Steve Lacy may be on the brink of fame, but he’s determined not to let go. A year ago, the 24-year-old singer, songwriter and producer was an unknown with a modest fanbase for his own music.
Last autumn, He got his big break when his single “Bad Habit” became one of the most popular songs of the year. It peaked at number one on Billboard Hot 100 and eventually reached number one in both R&B and hip-hop charts around the world.
Last week, Lacy was nominated for three Grammy awards – Record of the Year and Song of the Year for “Bad Habit.” Additionally, he’s up for Best Pop Solo Performance for that song as well. A truly incredible honor, Lacy performed it live during the awards show alongside Thundercat.
This song explores the feelings of regret over not acting upon an earlier attraction to someone. It’s a funky, smooth track that asks if it’s too late to pursue that person.
Lacy’s song conveys both hope and disappointment, with her vocals showing much emotion about the lyrics. But there’s also an acceptance in there as Lacy admits “I know I didn’t do it right/But I can do better next time.”
Last month, Lacy donned a black leather jacket and pair of rectangular glasses to our interview. This look has become part of his signature style and it’s evident in his lyrics.
His voice is soft and honeyed, reminiscent of Prince and Steve Urkel. However, his songs are also daring, incorporating elements of rock, soul, funk – which he seamlessly blends together in an arrangement reminiscent of Andre 3000 or Mac DeMarco.
Lacy is the latest singer-songwriter to break through into the mainstream. His hit single “Bad Habit” became an international phenomenon, propelling him towards Grammy success in 2023. It became the first song ever to top both Hot R&B/Hip-Hop, Hot R&B Songs and Hot Rock & Alternative Songs charts simultaneously and remains a staple on radio playlists around the world.
Taylor Swift – Look What You Made Me Do
Taylor Swift’s video for “Look What You Made Me Do,” released Friday (November 9), features an array of visual cues to play off her reputation as a master of self-deprecation and the diva behind one of music’s most controversial careers. From costuming and birdcage set-up to cat imagery, the clip plays off of Swift’s reputation as both.
There are multiple references to her various feuds, such as Kanye West for his role in the Paris robbery ordeal and Katy Perry for her involvement with “Bad Blood.” Furthermore, there’s an aggressive attack on Spotify for not paying artists royalties – an apparent nod to a 2014 open letter she wrote on Tumblr advocating for increased compensation for musicians.
The song itself conveys a lot about revenge and how her trials have made her stronger. She even goes so far as to predict that all her enemies will receive their due justice.
One lyric in particular is particularly disturbing: “It took me a long time to grow up, but I finally got it right/You got it wrong and I got you.” This lyric is an allusion to her past (and present) enemies, particularly those involved in her notorious Kanye West and Katy Perry feuds.
It’s a dark and scathing lyric that may indicate her next single will be her biggest diss track yet. Additionally, its accompanying visual of snake-themed visuals indicates she is taking her career to new heights with this latest creative venture.
Swift’s single, “Whether or not it is about her longtime enemies” or simply another diss track, marks a shift in tone for her music. In the past, her songs have been known to settle scores and show that women who have been hurt can speak out; however this one appears to be pure accusation.
Dua Lipa – Love Yourself
Dua Lipa’s self-titled debut album has made waves in the pop music world. The 21-year-old singer began her career uploading covers to YouTube but this year has already written and released five chart-topping singles.
Her new album features danceable and catchy songs with an important message. For instance, the title track emphasizes love – it’s a song for those going through difficult times in their relationships and serves as a reminder that everyone deserves happiness.
Another track, “Levitating,” creates the sensation of being soaring into the air. This song showcases the variety of this album and definitely deserves your attention.
This song’s lyrics are quite memorable, and they’re sure to get people thinking. For instance, one line in the chorus reads, “Love can be so fun.” The tune serves as a motivating reminder to stay positive and keep smiling.
Other lyrics in this song talk about love and how it can make us feel crazy. One line reads, “If you aren’t crazy in love, then you haven’t truly loved.” This serves as a reminder that never stop believing in your feelings for someone.
This song’s lyrics are truly inspirational, emphasizing the depth of love. It gives listeners hope that they might find true happiness in the future.
This song not only has beautiful lyrics, but it also possesses an energetic beat that will keep listeners engaged. This makes it the ideal track to listen to during stressful days.
This acoustic version of the song offers a distinct atmosphere from other tracks on this album. Additionally, its slower tempo helps it stand out even more.
This album contains many songs that express love. But there are also those that discuss other topics as well. For instance, “Homesick” is a beautiful track that brings tears to your eyes with its reminders of longing and nostalgia.