Introduction
Phil Collins – That’s Just The Way It Is (Official Music Video) is a deeply reflective and emotionally resonant song from Collins’ 1993 album Both Sides. A departure from his earlier, more polished pop productions, this track showcases a rawer, more introspective side of the artist. With its somber melody and thought-provoking lyrics, That’s Just The Way It Is invites listeners to accept life as it is—embracing both its challenges and its inherent truths, despite the hardships we may face along the way.
The song opens with a simple, yet haunting piano arrangement that sets the tone for the reflective nature of the track. As Collins’ soulful voice enters, the listener is immediately drawn into his message—a theme that speaks to the unchangeable realities of life. “That’s just the way it is,” Collins sings, acknowledging the inevitability of certain things that we cannot control. The simplicity of this statement, repeated throughout the song, carries a weight of acceptance, offering a sense of peace in the face of life’s uncertainties.
In the official music video, the visual representation of the song complements its introspective message. Collins can be seen in various settings, often in solitude, reflecting the loneliness and introspection that many feel when grappling with life’s unalterable aspects. The muted tones of the video and the understated visual style enhance the contemplative mood of the song. This sense of quiet introspection is mirrored in Collins’ powerful yet restrained performance, where he captures both the resignation and understanding that comes with accepting the way life unfolds.
The track’s production is simple, yet effective. The emphasis is placed on the emotional impact of the lyrics and the purity of Collins’ vocals, with minimal instrumentation allowing the message to take center stage. This simplicity allows the song to breathe, with Collins’ voice taking the listener on a journey through his thoughts on the ups and downs of life. The understated arrangement also highlights the introspective nature of the song, focusing on the rawness of the emotions being conveyed.
Lyrically, That’s Just The Way It Is is about acceptance and the recognition that some aspects of life are beyond our control. Whether it’s personal struggles, societal issues, or the challenges of growing older, the song speaks to the reality that life doesn’t always go as planned. But rather than sounding defeatist, Collins’ approach is one of quiet resignation and understanding. The repetition of the phrase “That’s just the way it is” is a reminder that while we may not always get what we want, there is a certain peace to be found in accepting things as they are, rather than fighting against them.
Musically, That’s Just The Way It Is is a departure from the upbeat, chart-topping hits Collins was known for in the 1980s. The track has a slower tempo, allowing the lyrics to take precedence and giving the song a more meditative feel. It’s a perfect example of Collins’ ability to transition from pop-rock anthems to somber, introspective ballads, showing his versatility as a songwriter and performer.
For long-time fans of Phil Collins, That’s Just The Way It Is (Official Music Video) offers a more intimate and raw glimpse into his artistic evolution, showcasing a different emotional depth than his earlier hits. For new listeners, this track provides a beautiful introduction to the reflective side of Collins’ music, revealing a side of his artistry that is often overlooked. The song’s message, paired with its understated production and soulful delivery, speaks to the universal experience of finding peace in acceptance.
In conclusion, Phil Collins – That’s Just The Way It Is (Official Music Video) is a deeply emotional and reflective anthem about life’s unchanging truths. With its simple yet powerful arrangement, Collins’ heartfelt delivery, and the poignant visuals in the video, the song offers a message of acceptance and peace in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. Whether revisiting this song or experiencing it for the first time, it is a powerful reminder that some things in life we cannot change—and sometimes, that’s just the way it is.