The Steps is a song by American rock band Haim, released as the lead single from their third studio album, Women in Music Pt. III (2020). The track was issued on March 12, 2020, through Columbia Records.
Background and composition
"The Steps" was written by the three Haim sisters—Este, Danielle, and Alana—alongside longtime collaborator Ariel Rechtshaid, who also co‑produced the song with the band. Musically, the song blends pop‑rock and indie pop elements, featuring prominent electric guitar riffs, layered vocal harmonies, and a driving rhythm section. Lyrically, it addresses themes of personal growth and moving forward after a breakup.
Release and promotion
The single was premiered digitally and sent to contemporary hit radio formats in the United States and the United Kingdom. A music video directed by filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson was released concurrently, depicting the sisters performing the track in a single continuous take within a minimalist set. Haim promoted the song with live performances on television programs, including an appearance on Saturday Night Live in October 2020.
Critical reception
Upon release, "The Steps" received generally positive reviews from music critics, who highlighted its energetic production and the band's shift toward a more rock‑oriented sound compared to earlier work. Critics noted the song's hook-driven chorus and praised the synergy between the group's harmonies and the driving instrumentation.
Commercial performance
"The Steps" entered several national charts following its release. In the United Kingdom, it peaked within the top 40 of the UK Singles Chart. In the United States, the track appeared on Billboard's Alternative Airplay chart and on the Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart. Specific peak positions vary by chart and market.
Credits and personnel
- Haim – songwriting, production, vocals, instrumentation
- Ariel Rechtshaid – songwriting, production, additional instrumentation
- Additional musicians – session players contributed bass, drums, and guitar parts as credited in the album liner notes
- Paul Thomas Anderson – music video director
Track listings
Digital single
- "The Steps" – 3:46
Remixes and alternate versions have been released by various DJs and producers, though these are not included on the standard album edition.
References
(Information compiled from publicly available release notes, liner credits of Women in Music Pt. III, and contemporaneous music journalism.)
