Emily Monsen has released the video for her most recent single, “How We Used to Be.” The colorful video for the poignant track, propelled by a rootsy acoustic guitar and piano combo that elevates the coming-of-age story into a moment of growth and reflection is available to watch now.
The remarkably transparent track is told from the perspective of present-day Monsen, now 24, as she reflects on a relationship that came to a jarring and sudden end when she was 18. Simultaneously capturing the pain of the moment and the wisdom allowed to her by time and reflection, “how we used to be” zooms in on Monsen’s decision to remember the relationship how it was at its very best, rather than lingering in the goodbyes and closure she never received. Harnessing a fearlessly introspective songwriting style and Monsen’s sultry, countrypolitan vocals, the debut single encapsulates her experience’s vulnerability as it surges through time and space – becoming a dynamic conversation between her past and present selves. Through “how we used to be,” Monsen finally reaches a point of negotiating her hurt with the knowledge that she has survived it, grown past her heartbreak and through it.
Showcasing Monsen’s vulnerability by capturing meaningful moments and pulling at the listener’s heartstrings, her writing reflects her self-introspection as she strives to make honest and endearing music. Monsen knew early on that she wanted to be on stage. Ever since she was a little girl, her life was centered on singing around the house or gathering her family around the living room on Thanksgiving or Christmas so she could pretend to be on American Idol. Monsen entered talent shows throughout elementary school, won the KJ97’s Country Kid contest in 6th grade, and performed in every talent show her high school had.
How We Used to Be is available now to stream and download on all digital platforms, and the video can be streamed on YouTube.
You can learn more about Emily Monsen by following them on Instagram at @emilymonsen and listening to their previous singles “in pieces” and “lost anything” on Spotify.