Aly & AJ have returned, and with their lead single “What It Feels Like,” they’re reminding us of why we fell in love with them in the first place—only this time, they’ve got something bigger to say. The iconic sister duo’s new track is a heartfelt anthem for the modern woman, brimming with raw emotion, reflection, and strength. It’s a beautiful, gritty, and unapologetically real meditation on life’s transitions, written from the perspective of two women navigating motherhood, aunthood, and the sometimes unkind, always-evolving spotlight of an objectifying culture.
From the first few bars, “What It Feels Like” sweeps you into an almost meditative space—a place where growth and self-acceptance coexist. And that’s fitting, given the energy behind its creation. The song was recorded in Topanga Canyon, CA, during a particularly transformative moment for Aly Michalka—she went into labour with her son Jack while the track was being brought to life. Talk about a song steeped in the essence of nature, womanhood, sisterhood, and pure, unfiltered authenticity. You can hear the literal birth of the song in its delicate yet powerful instrumentation, with the vibrant strums of the guitar, the gentle hum of the zither, and the delicate hum of piano chords. It feels like something you’d expect from a living, breathing musical experience. It feels alive.
The lyrics themselves are a treasure trove of empowerment. “I want to know what it feels like / To let beauty fade well, that’s okay, I’m not afraid,” the duo sings in perfect harmony, a mantra of acceptance and courage. This is not just a song about change; it’s about embracing the inevitable shifts we experience as women—and not just accepting them but celebrating them. It’s about the beauty in the seemingly unglamorous aspects of life, the marks of time and experience, and the radiant power of family and sisterhood that hold us up in the face of adversity.
This track feels like the ultimate diary entry for anyone navigating life’s messier, more meaningful moments. It taps into the universal experience of loving yourself despite (or because of) the imperfections we may see in the mirror. It’s like writing an ode to your past self, embracing the now, and building a future that’s full of hope and self-love. If you’re looking for a song to help you reflect and recharge, “What It Feels Like” is your perfect soundtrack.
And let’s not forget the undeniably infectious rock energy that makes this track truly special. The duo’s desire to make rock music at any cost is evident in the fierceness and passion they bring to the production. With Grammy-nominated Jonathan Wilson at the helm, the track exudes a timeless rock vibe while keeping the authenticity of their sisterly bond at the forefront.
Aly & AJ are back, and “What It Feels Like” proves that they still have that magic we fell for all those years ago. It’s bold, it’s beautiful, and it’s a total mood—one that sticks with you long after the last note fades. This is a song for the ages, one that makes you want to embrace your own journey while raising a glass to the people who’ve been there along the way. Ready for the next chapter, anyone?