“When I Was Older” by Billie Eilish

“When I Was Older” is a song recorded by renowned American singer-songwriter Billie Eilish. According to Eilish, the lyrics of this song were inspired by the 2018 drama film Roma. This film, which was directed by Mexican film director Alfonso Cuarón, stars noted Mexican actress and teacher Yalitza Aparicio.

Roma, which is based on director Alfonso Cuarón’s life growing up in Mexico City, centers heavily on the life of a maid named Cleo. Cleo is played by Aparicio. FYI – when Aparicio was cast in this film, she had never acted before nor received any formal training in acting. However, she performed flawlessly well in the film and earned herself accolades for her role in the film.

In the course of the song, a number of lyrics deal with heartbreak and misery. These themes can also be found in the film Roma.

Facts about “When I Was Older”

• Billie Eilish wrote “When I Was Older” with her songwriter/producer brother Finneas O’Connell (also known as just Finneas).
• Finneas not only contributed to the writing of this song, but he also produced it. He took care of the production solely.
• The track was released by Eilish’s labels Interscope and Darkroom Records on January 9, 2019.
• This is Eilish’s first single of 2019. It came out on the same day Lana Del Rey also released her famous single “hope is a dangerous thing for a woman like me – but i have it“.

Who sings the backing vocals on “When I Was Older”?

The song’s background vocals are provided Eilish’s older brother Finneas. This shows how very versatile Finneas is. Not only did he write and produce the song but he also contributes his vocals to it.

Is this the first time Eilish is working with her brother Finneas on a song?

No. Finneas has worked with Eilish on practically all her big hits. Some of these hits include the following:

• “lovely”
• “when the party’s over”
• “bellyache”
• “idontwannabeyouanymore”

Does this song appear in the movie Roma?

No, it doesn’t.