Release Date and Original Context
“This Is How We Do” was released on July 31, 2014 as the fourth single from Katy Perry’s album Prism. It arrived during summer peak listening, positioning the track for radio, streaming, and visual rollouts. The official audio premiered on July 31, 2014, followed by the lyric video on the same day, and the official music video on August 21, 2014. This rollout aligned with Prism’s broader campaign, which followed the strong early singles Roar and Dark Horse.
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| July 31, 2014 | Single and audio release | Formal introduction as the fourth single |
| August 21, 2014 | Music video premiere | Boosted visual engagement and summer relevance |
| 2014 | Included in Prism album (October 2013) and subsequent campaigns | Part of sustained promotional cycle |
Musical Style and Production
“This Is How We Do” is a dance-pop and funk-pop track built on glossy, synth-forward production with a steady four-on-the-floor beat. The song features bright synth lines, processed vocal hooks, and a bassline that nods to earlier pop and disco influences without heavily sampling an older record. Its polished, upbeat production is characteristic of Prism’s sleek, modern pop aesthetic, designed for both club play and mainstream radio. Compared with contemporaries in mid-2010s pop, it leans into rhythmic bounce and minimalist verse hooks that prioritize groove over narrative.
Key Production Elements
- Tempo and rhythm: Upbeat dance tempo around 130 BPM with a driving kick
- Instrumentation: Synthesizers, programmed percussion, and layered vocal hooks
- Influences: Echoes of 1980s synth-pop and early 1990s dance music
Lyrics and Theme
The lyrics celebrate a carefree, celebratory lifestyle, emphasizing spontaneity, friendship, and enjoying the moment. Phrases about getting ready, going out, and dancing through the night frame the song as an invitation to let loose rather than a detailed story. The recurring “la la la” sections function as communal chants, reinforcing the idea of shared experience. While not deeply narrative, the song’s theme of joyful togetherness contributed to its broad appeal as a summer anthem.
Reception and Chart Performance
“This Is How We Do” achieved strong commercial performance, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart and the top ten on the Mainstream Top 40. It also performed well in international charts, with top-20 placements in multiple territories. Critical reviews highlighted its production and catchiness, though some noted its surface-level lyricism. The song’s music video added to its visibility, featuring vibrant visuals that matched its playful tone. Over time, it has remained a staple in Katy Perry’s live shows and radio rotations, particularly during themed performances and retrospectives.
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Billboard Hot 100 position | Number 9 | Chart run in 2014 |
| Billboard Hot Dance/Electronic Songs | Number 1 | Reflects strength in dance and club markets |
| Mainstream Top 40 peak | Top 5 | Significant radio impact |
| International reach | Top 20 in multiple territories | Broad global appeal |
Cultural Footprint and Legacy
Though not as enduring as some of Perry’s biggest hits, “This Is How We Do” remains a recognizable part of her catalog, often featured in playlists focused on 2010s pop and upbeat dance tracks. Its steady presence in live sets and streaming playlists underscores its durability as a summer-pop fixture. The song’s emphasis on uncomplicated celebration influenced how subsequent pop artists approached lightweight, vibe-first singles. Its visual aesthetic and references to everyday leisure have also made it a touchstone for retro-futuristic pop storytelling in videos and social media trends.
Ongoing Relevance
Years after its release, “This Is How We Do” continues to appear in retrospective articles about Prism and in curated playlists that highlight feel-good pop. Its production style aligns with current interest in vintage-inspired dance music, ensuring that new listeners discover it through streaming algorithms and curated collections. While not a constant fixture on current charts, its performance across streaming platforms and sustained radio familiarity demonstrate lasting value. For creators, the track’s upbeat tempo and communal lyrics make it a practical choice for content focused on energy, movement, and shared experiences.