Foreigner – That Was Yesterday

About the song

“That Was Yesterday,” the second single from Foreigner’s 1984 album Agent Provocateur, is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a powerful ballad that delves into the complexities of a failed relationship, offering a glimpse into the songwriter’s emotional vulnerability. Composed by the band’s creative duo, Lou Gramm and Mick Jones, the song resonated with audiences, becoming a “terrific hit single” according to AllMusic critic Bret Adams, thanks to its “catchy chorus” and “nifty synthesizer lick.”

The song’s emotional core comes from Jones himself. He draws inspiration from “subconscious emotions from past relationships,” as he explains. “That Was Yesterday” becomes a poignant expression of clinging to a love that’s faded, yearning for a chance to rekindle the flame. It’s a song that evokes bittersweet memories, forcing the listener to confront “painful moments” as Jones describes.

However, “That Was Yesterday” isn’t simply a wallow in despair. The driving beat and Gramm’s “emotionally biting” vocals hint at a flicker of hope. Critics like Scott Miley of the Indianapolis Star acknowledge this, praising the song for its ability to “adeptly reflect despair with tantalizing synthesizers.” The song’s multiple versions, including the extended remix with additional lyrics and the live rendition, further showcase the band’s experimentation and exploration of the emotional landscape.

While the critical reception was largely positive, with some like Jan DeKnock of the Chicago Tribune highlighting the song’s “good, solid mainstream rock” appeal, there were dissenting voices. Notably, Rick Shefchik criticized it for being “sludgy,” targeting a very specific audience. Interestingly, even within the band, opinions differed. Lou Gramm, while acknowledging the song’s merits, expressed his preference for showcasing Foreigner’s “rock and roll” side with a more upbeat choice for the second single.

Despite these internal debates, “That Was Yesterday” cemented its place in Foreigner’s legacy. It charted on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching #12, and found success internationally. The music video, filmed at a live performance, further solidified the song’s connection with fans. Whether viewed as a melancholic reflection or a testament to enduring hope, “That Was Yesterday” remains a powerful ballad, a testament to Foreigner’s ability to capture the complexities of love and loss.

Video

Lyrics

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