About the song
Cliff Richard on That Was Then, This Is Now: A Journey Through Time and Music
For more than six decades, Sir Cliff Richard has been one of the most enduring figures in popular music. From his groundbreaking success in the late 1950s to his continued presence on stage and record charts today, Cliff has embodied not only longevity but also reinvention. When reflecting on his remarkable journey, the title of one of his projects—That Was Then, This Is Now—feels like a fitting lens through which to view his extraordinary career.
Released in 1987, That Was Then, This Is Now wasn’t just another entry in Cliff’s vast catalog; it was a statement. The song, which blended nostalgic reflection with a forward-looking optimism, captured the essence of his artistry. By the late 1980s, Cliff had already weathered multiple waves of change in the music industry. He had experienced the height of teen idol fame in the 1960s, proved himself as a mature artist in the 1970s, and successfully adapted to the slick, modern pop styles of the 1980s. This single reminded fans that while times may change, Cliff Richard’s voice and sincerity remained constants.
Speaking about the song years later, Cliff explained that That Was Then, This Is Now represented more than just a catchy tune—it symbolized his life philosophy. “You can’t live in the past, but you can honor it,” he said. “What matters is how you grow, how you keep moving forward, and how you stay true to yourself.” For him, the song was a bridge between eras, acknowledging the history he had built while embracing the challenges of the future.
The lyrics themselves spoke to transformation, resilience, and renewal—qualities that have defined Cliff Richard’s career. Few artists from the rock-and-roll explosion of the 1950s are still actively performing today, but Cliff’s ability to adapt without losing authenticity has been his secret. Whether experimenting with gospel, contemporary pop, or even collaborating with younger artists, he has always balanced respect for his past with curiosity about the present.
Beyond its musical context, That Was Then, This Is Now also highlights the personal evolution of Cliff Richard. Known for his strong faith and grounded lifestyle, he has often described his career as a journey not just through fame but through self-discovery. The song reflects that tension between who he once was—the teenage sensation adored by screaming fans—and who he became: a seasoned artist, a man of conviction, and a mentor to new generations of performers.
Today, as Cliff Richard reflects on his legacy, the message of That Was Then, This Is Now feels more relevant than ever. At 80-plus years old, he continues to record, tour, and inspire audiences worldwide. Fans who grew up with his earliest hits find comfort in his enduring presence, while younger listeners discover in him a voice that transcends time.
Ultimately, That Was Then, This Is Now is more than a song in Cliff Richard’s catalog—it is a philosophy, a reminder that life is a series of seasons. What was once youthful energy has become seasoned wisdom, yet the passion remains unchanged. For Cliff, the past is cherished, but the present is where he continues to shine.
