The Brief: "You just had to be there" is a phrase used on Twitter when an individual is reflecting on an iconic moment in pop culture.

DEEP DIVE
Millenials are known for being obsessed with nostalgia. It comes as no surprise many millenial Twitter users are sharing some of the most iconic moments in pop culture while using the phrase “You just had to be there.”
https://twitter.com/alissaashley/status/1365140667068948485?s=21
The phrase is typically paired with a few photos or a video that represents a moment that shaped popular culture. For example, 2015-2016 was marked by bomber jackets, Adidas Stan Smiths, and Snapchat’s flower crown filter.
https://twitter.com/iw0uidntasky0u/status/1365009431864500225?s=21
There was also the time Tyra Banks had America’s Next Top Model contestants pose with a tarantula.
YOU JUST HAD TO BE THERE pic.twitter.com/d9hgNm5bsd
— The Great Negro (@jiggyjayy2) February 26, 2021
Even established media outlets and brands are using the phrase.
You just had to be there pic.twitter.com/J1C9lxQ1lk
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 26, 2021
Other tweets:
I was 😉 https://t.co/pVHJBVBut5
— Halle Berry (@halleberry) February 25, 2021
You just had to be there pic.twitter.com/a4FKEueQmA
— CIERRA🌸 (@Cierra_Xo_) February 25, 2021
You just had to be there pic.twitter.com/OAtA23LQKo
— Khadi Don (@KhadiDon) February 25, 2021