Charli XCX Celebrates ‘How I’m Feeling Now’ Anniversary with ‘Party 4 U’ Video, Teases More ‘Brat’ Era Surprises
Charli XCX is not done with her 'Brat' era just yet! As fans celebrate the fifth anniversary of her critically acclaimed album 'How I'm Feeling Now', the pop innovator is gifting them with a long-awaited music video for the fan-favorite track 'Party 4 U'. But that's not all – whispers of even more surprises are on the horizon, promising an extended summer of 'Brat' domination.
Released during the peak of Covid-19 quarantines in May 2020, 'How I'm Feeling Now' was a deeply personal and experimental project for Charli XCX. Recorded in just five weeks in collaboration with her fans online, the album became a symbol of connection and vulnerability during a time of isolation. "I felt like I rediscovered myself, my sanity + my sense of connection with the world, at a time where we were all so alone," Charli shared in a heartfelt Instagram note.
Now, five years later, 'Party 4 U' is experiencing a massive resurgence thanks to TikTok and its inclusion in Charli's electrifying Brat Tour setlist. This renewed popularity prompted her label to re-release the single and finally unveil the music video on the album's anniversary.
"It was all of us at our most raw, our most stripped, our most vulnerable," Charli wrote, reflecting on the album's creation. "I will never forget it, and I really can’t believe that 5 years later one of the Angel favorites is having its own special moment."
While the 'Party 4 U' video is an exciting treat for fans, it seems Charli XCX has even bigger plans in store. According to Sam Spencer, EVP at Atlantic Records, "Charli's got lots of plans for the rest of the year... and a few more surprises for later in the year." The label's audience manager, Ruth Scheinberg, even teased "Brat summer 2.0!"
Despite the potential for oversaturation, Charli admitted she's finding it "really hard to let go of 'Brat'". She acknowledges the typical lifespan of a project but seems intrigued by the idea of extending the era and exploring the tension of "staying too long."
The 'Brat' album and its accompanying aesthetic have undoubtedly made a lasting impact on pop culture. From the 'Brat Girl' persona to the signature sickly green color, the era has infiltrated fashion, TikTok trends, and even politics.
What could these future surprises entail? More music videos? Collaborations? Perhaps even a deluxe version of 'Brat'? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Charli XCX is keeping the 'Brat' spirit alive, and fans are eager to see what she has up her sleeve.
What are your favorite memories from the 'How I'm Feeling Now' era? And what do you hope to see from Charli XCX in the future? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
