Foreigner – That Was Yesterday

About the song

“That Was Yesterday,” released as the second single from Foreigner’s album *Agent Provocateur*, remains a poignant testament to the band’s ability to blend emotional depth with rock sensibility. Written by Lou Gramm and Mick Jones, the song explores the aftermath of a failed relationship, delving into themes of nostalgia, regret, and the hope for reconciliation.

Musically, the song is characterized by its melodic hooks and atmospheric synthesizers, a departure from the band’s earlier hard rock sound. Mick Jones, reflecting on its composition, revealed that the song draws heavily from personal experiences and deep emotions, making it a profoundly introspective piece in their repertoire.

The song was released in several versions, including a remixed single, an extended remix, an orchestral rendition, and the original mix. Each version offered a distinct perspective on the central theme of lost love, showcasing the band’s versatility in musical arrangement.

Critically, “That Was Yesterday” received varied reviews. AllMusic praised it as a “terrific hit single” with a “catchy chorus,” highlighting its appeal to mainstream audiences. Billboard described it as a “gothic ballad,” noting its departure from the gospel-infused style of their previous hit, “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Despite some critical reservations about its slower tempo and rock edge, the song resonated well on charts, peaking at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving notable positions in various international charts.

The music video for “That Was Yesterday,” directed by Jim Yukich, mirrored the emotional intensity of the song through a live performance setting. Filmed at the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center, the video aimed for a more vibrant visual style compared to their earlier ballad, “I Want to Know What Love Is,” while maintaining a heartfelt connection to the song’s themes.

In hindsight, Mick Jones expressed a personal fondness for “That Was Yesterday,” considering it his favorite from the album *Agent Provocateur*. Despite initial reservations about releasing two ballads consecutively, Lou Gramm acknowledged the song’s powerful impact and its ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.

Overall, “That Was Yesterday” stands as a testament to Foreigner’s ability to evolve musically while staying true to their roots, solidifying its place as one of their enduring classics that continues to resonate with listeners for its heartfelt portrayal of love and loss.

Video

Lyrics

“That Was Yesterday”

I thought I knew you well
But all this time I could never tell
I let you get away
Haunts me every night and every day

You were the only one
The only friend that I counted on
How could I watch you walk away
I’d give anything to have you here today

But now I stand alone with my pride
And dream that you’re still by my side

But that was yesterday
I had the world in my hands
But it’s not the end of my world
Just a slight change of plans

That was yesterday
But today life goes on
No more hiding in yesterday
‘Cause yesterday’s gone

Love, my love I gave it all
Thought I saw the light
When I heard you call
Life that we both could share
Has deserted me
Left me in despair

But now I stand alone with my pride
Fighting back the tears I never let myself cry

But that was yesterday
Love was torn from my hands
But it’s not the end of my world
Just a little hard to understand

That was yesterday
But today life goes on
You won’t find me in yesterday’s world
Now yesterday’s gone

Goodbye yesterday
Now it’s over and done
Still I hope somewhere deep in your heart
Yesterday will live on