Pop sensation and fashion icon Harry Styles has achieved yet another milestone in his already storied career. His 2022 smash hit “As It Was,” from his album *Harry’s House*, has marked an impressive 100 weeks on the UK charts, demonstrating the song’s staying power and the artist’s continued appeal. Even more notably, the song has recently jumped back up in the rankings, climbing from the 98th to the 90th spot. This resurgence showcases not only the song’s popularity but also the fan loyalty Styles has cultivated worldwide.
Since its release, “As It Was” has resonated deeply with listeners, making waves far beyond the UK. When it debuted in April 2022, the song skyrocketed to the top of the charts, both in the UK and internationally. In the U.S., “As It Was” spent a staggering 15 weeks at the summit of the Billboard Hot 100, breaking records for British solo artists and securing the title of the longest-running number-one single by a UK act in U.S. history. This accomplishment placed Styles in a unique position, as he became the second artist to achieve such a feat without any featured artists on the track.
The critical reception of “As It Was” has been equally remarkable. Reviewers lauded the song for its synth-pop style and introspective lyrics, which depart from traditional pop love songs to address themes of personal growth, loneliness, and change. As one of Styles’ most introspective singles, “As It Was” marked a new phase in his career, symbolizing his evolution from boy-band idol to one of modern music’s most influential solo artists. With its pulsating beat and infectious chorus, the song immediately resonated with fans, becoming an anthem for anyone experiencing life’s transitions.
In addition to its undeniable popularity, the song’s impact has been far-reaching across social media and music streaming platforms. On Spotify alone, “As It Was” garnered over a billion streams within its first few months, a figure that continues to grow as new listeners discover Styles’ music. The song’s visuals also played a role in its appeal, with the official music video capturing fans’ imaginations through its colorful, nostalgic aesthetics and imagery symbolizing cycles of change. Directed by Tanu Muino, the music video became a staple in 2022, amassing millions of views on YouTube and further cementing the song’s cultural impact.
Harry Styles’ journey with “As It Was” can be compared to the success of his previous hit “Watermelon Sugar.” While “Watermelon Sugar” also spent considerable time on the UK charts, holding a presence for 88 consecutive weeks, it never quite achieved the same level of record-breaking longevity as “As It Was.” Despite this, “Watermelon Sugar” remains a fan favorite and a regular feature on Styles’ setlists during live performances, proving that the artist’s range spans more than just one viral hit. “Watermelon Sugar” ultimately became an unofficial anthem of summer, recognized for its upbeat tempo and jubilant themes—a notable contrast to the introspective quality of “As It Was.”
Much of Styles’ continued success can be attributed to his unique ability to reinvent himself while remaining authentic. Since his early days as a member of One Direction, he has broken free from the expectations that come with boy-band fame, choosing instead to explore diverse genres and push boundaries. His transition into solo stardom has not only solidified his reputation but has allowed him to experiment with sounds that feel fresh and genuine. “As It Was” exemplifies this transformation, blending an 80s-inspired synth-pop beat with modern themes that resonate with listeners across generations.
Styles’ achievements are not limited to the music charts. His influence extends into fashion and film, with Styles regularly pushing boundaries in gender-fluid fashion and even starring in major Hollywood productions like *Don’t Worry Darling* and *My Policeman*. His bold style choices, whether at the Grammy Awards or the Met Gala, have won him acclaim from fashion critics and fans alike, further setting him apart from other pop icons of his generation. Styles’ influence has cemented him as a trailblazer, proving that his appeal is not confined to music but encompasses a broader cultural impact.
The staying power of “As It Was” is a testament to the special place Styles holds in popular music today. As he reaches the 100-week milestone on the UK charts, it’s clear that his music has a life of its own, continually appealing to new listeners even as it ages. For an artist like Styles, whose career has been marked by a desire to innovate and evolve, “As It Was” represents a defining moment. Its success is a testament to his ability to craft music that resonates deeply, and it leaves fans eagerly anticipating what he’ll create next.
In a time when streaming and social media are reshaping the music industry, Harry Styles’ achievements with “As It Was” underscore the power of timeless, well-crafted pop music. With each new milestone, Styles solidifies his place not only as a pop star but as an artist whose work has meaning and longevity.