Harry Styles is more than just a global pop sensation—he’s a cultural phenomenon. With his electrifying voice, irresistible charm, and genre-defying music, Harry has captured the hearts of millions and redefined what it means to be a modern rockstar. From his days as a member of the iconic boy band One Direction to his meteoric rise as a solo artist, Harry has consistently delivered music that resonates deeply with fans around the world. Whether it’s soulful ballads that tug at your heartstrings or upbeat anthems that turn every moment into a dance party, his songs are the soundtrack to countless memories.
But which of Harry Styles’ songs have truly stood the test of time? Which tracks have dominated the charts, broken streaming records, and solidified their place in pop music history? In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Harry Styles songs of all time. From timeless hits to recent masterpieces, get ready to dive into a playlist that celebrates Harry’s incredible journey as an artist. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering his magic, this list will remind you why Harry Styles is one of the most beloved artists of our generation. Let’s get started!
1. Sign of the Times (2017)
“Sign of the Times” was the bold, breathtaking introduction to Harry Styles as a solo artist—something far removed from his boyband beginnings. Released in 2017, this sweeping rock ballad marked a new era for Harry, one steeped in classic rock influences and emotional depth. The song opens with haunting piano chords and gradually builds into a cinematic experience, layered with dramatic drums, soaring falsettos, and a sense of timeless urgency. Lyrically, it reads like a poetic farewell, filled with metaphors of escape and mortality—“Just stop your crying, it’s a sign of the times” feels like a message for a world in crisis. It’s not just a song; it’s a statement, signaling Harry’s refusal to be boxed into commercial pop. Critics compared it to the work of legends like David Bowie and Queen, and with good reason—it carries that same ambition, that same willingness to push boundaries. The music video, with its surreal visuals of Harry floating above scenic cliffs and water, adds to the song’s ethereal tone. “Sign of the Times” wasn’t just a successful debut—it was proof that Harry Styles was ready to carve out a distinct, meaningful place in music history.
2. Watermelon Sugar (2019)
“Watermelon Sugar” is Harry Styles at his most carefree and joyful—a bright, juicy burst of sunshine wrapped up in a song. Released in 2019 as part of Fine Line, the track immediately became a summer anthem. Built on retro guitars, breezy horns, and a rhythm that practically sparkles, it captures the electric excitement of fleeting moments—those hot, sugar-sweet days filled with touch, taste, and connection. While the lyrics are playful and at times coy, there’s also a sensual undertone, one that celebrates physicality and being in the present. “Tastes like strawberries on a summer evening” might sound simple, but it’s a whole vibe—warmth, nostalgia, freedom. The production is tight and euphoric, with Harry’s vocals floating effortlessly over the track, showing off his natural charisma without trying too hard. The music video, drenched in vintage California cool, with Harry surrounded by fruit, friends, and laughter on the beach, just amplifies the feel-good energy. “Watermelon Sugar” became a massive hit, topping charts and winning a Grammy, but more than that—it proved Harry could make pop music that feels fresh, fun, and still totally unique to him. It’s a song you want to live inside for a little while.
3. Adore You (2019)
“Adore You” is a beautifully crafted love song that manages to feel both dreamy and grounded at the same time. Released in 2019 as part of Fine Line, it blends silky vocals, a groovy beat, and heartfelt storytelling into one of Harry Styles’ most memorable tracks. The lyrics are a declaration of love—earnest and unashamed—with Harry offering unwavering devotion to someone who might not even need it. The chorus, with its simple yet powerful repetition of “I’d walk through fire for you,” hits like a warm hug. What really elevates the song, though, is the production—it’s clean and layered, with shimmering guitar lines and a slow-building rhythm that feels like falling gently, completely in love. The accompanying music video, set in the fictional island of Eroda, adds an unexpected fantasy twist. In it, Harry befriends a lonely fish, an offbeat metaphor for love and acceptance that only he could pull off with such charm. The track showcases his ability to blend quirky creativity with emotional sincerity. “Adore You” isn’t flashy or loud—it’s tender, whimsical, and entirely irresistible. It’s Harry at his most endearing, and a shining example of his artistic evolution.
4. As It Was (2022)
“As It Was,” the lead single from Harry’s House (2022), is one of those rare pop songs that hits hard both emotionally and sonically. At first listen, its upbeat synths and shimmering guitars might suggest something light and cheerful—but dig into the lyrics, and you’ll find a deep sense of introspection and longing. Harry sings about change, isolation, and the ache of knowing things will never go back to how they used to be. “In this world, it’s just us / You know it’s not the same as it was,” he repeats like a quiet mantra, turning personal reflection into a universal truth. The track leans into ‘80s pop influences, with its crisp production and danceable rhythm, but it never feels like a throwback. Instead, it feels incredibly modern—fresh yet nostalgic. The vulnerability in Harry’s voice, paired with the emotional complexity of the lyrics, makes this song hit a little deeper than your typical radio hit. The music video, full of surreal imagery and symbolic choreography, mirrors that contrast between freedom and tension. “As It Was” became a massive global hit, topping charts for weeks, and it’s not hard to see why—it’s catchy, cathartic, and achingly real.
5. Golden (2019)
“Golden” is the musical equivalent of sunshine—it’s warm, open, and impossible not to smile at. Released in 2019 as the opening track of Fine Line, the song instantly sets the tone for the album with its breezy guitar riffs, steady beat, and Harry Styles’ glowing vocal delivery. It feels like a drive along the coast with the windows down, a moment where everything is light and free. Lyrically, “Golden” speaks to vulnerability in love—the fear of getting too close, of being seen for who you really are. Yet, instead of sounding heavy, it’s uplifting. When Harry sings, “I don’t want to be alone,” it’s with an earnestness that’s relatable and sincere. The production is light and airy, with layered harmonies that build gently but never overwhelm. The music video, shot in the Amalfi Coast, perfectly matches the song’s aesthetic: golden hour lighting, open roads, and Harry running barefoot with a sense of joy and abandon. “Golden” captures the feeling of being on the edge of something wonderful—hopeful, maybe a little scared, but wide open to the experience. It’s one of Harry’s most feel-good songs and a fan favorite for very good reason.
6. Kiwi (2017)
“Kiwi” is loud, chaotic, and completely unhinged in the best possible way. Taken from Harry Styles’ self-titled debut album in 2017, this gritty rock track is a full-throttle burst of energy that stands in stark contrast to some of his softer ballads. With screeching guitars, a pounding beat, and vocals that border on growling, “Kiwi” is pure, messy fun. Lyrically, it’s a wild story—part fiction, part fantasy—about a woman, a baby, and a whole lot of attitude. Lines like “I think she said ‘I’m having your baby, it’s none of your business’” are screamed rather than sung, adding to the song’s chaotic charm. It’s cheeky, bold, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. That carefree spirit makes it a favorite at Harry’s live shows, where it often turns into a loud, sweaty, sing-it-at-the-top-of-your-lungs moment. It’s also where Harry really leans into his rockstar persona, channeling swagger and confidence that feels reminiscent of the greats—think Mick Jagger or early Arctic Monkeys. “Kiwi” might not be his deepest or most emotional song, but it’s one of his most entertaining—and it proves Harry knows how to let loose and rock out with the best of them.
7. Falling (2019)
“Falling” is heartbreak in slow motion. Released in 2019 as part of Fine Line, this piano-driven ballad strips everything down to the rawest version of Harry Styles. Gone are the flashy production and upbeat rhythms—instead, we get vulnerability, regret, and brutal honesty. The song opens with a simple yet haunting piano melody that immediately sets the tone. As Harry sings, “What am I now? What if I’m someone I don’t want around?” it feels like we’re eavesdropping on an inner monologue in the middle of an emotional spiral. The lyrics deal with losing someone you love and, maybe even worse, losing yourself in the process. There’s no sugarcoating here—just a deep well of sorrow and self-reflection. What makes “Falling” so powerful is Harry’s vocal performance; every note drips with pain, yet it’s controlled, never overly dramatic. It’s a rare kind of emotional clarity that’s hard to fake. The music video, with Harry literally drowning in a flood of water while playing the piano, drives the metaphor home. “Falling” is one of his most introspective and soul-baring songs, and it struck a chord with fans who saw their own heartbreak mirrored in every word.
8. Late Night Talking (2022)
“Late Night Talking,” from Harry’s House (2022), is pure comfort in musical form. With its bouncy groove, cozy production, and romantic lyrics, the song captures the blissful intimacy of staying up all night with someone special—just talking, laughing, maybe falling in love a little more with each passing minute. From the opening notes, the track oozes charm. There’s a retro vibe to it, with its layered harmonies and smooth rhythm, but it still feels fresh and undeniably Harry. Lyrically, it’s sweet and sincere without ever getting overly sappy. Lines like “Nothing really goes to plan / You stub your toe or break your camera” are so wonderfully mundane, and that’s exactly the point—it’s about loving someone through the small, imperfect moments. Harry’s delivery is playful and affectionate, making you feel like he’s singing directly to you. The music video, which sees him bouncing between pastel dreamscapes and giant beds floating through space, matches the song’s whimsical vibe perfectly. “Late Night Talking” isn’t trying to be profound—it’s about feeling good, feeling close, and finding joy in the little connections. And honestly, that’s what makes it feel so real.
9. Music for a Sushi Restaurant (2022)
“Music for a Sushi Restaurant” is Harry Styles at his most experimental—and honestly, his most fun. Kicking off Harry’s House (2022) with a bang, this track is unexpected in the best way. It opens with jazzy horns, funky basslines, and layered vocals that are more jam-session than typical pop formula. There’s a playfulness to the production that feels completely uninhibited. Inspired, apparently, by an actual sushi restaurant playlist, the song is as quirky as its name suggests. But it’s also deeply groovy. Harry’s falsetto weaves through the track like silk, and the lyrics—though surreal—are full of cheeky charm. Lines like “Green eyes, fried rice, I could cook an egg on you” are weird, yes, but weird in the most delightful way. The song plays with genre and structure, refusing to sit neatly in any one box. It’s bold, confident, and a sign of an artist having fun with his craft. It’s the kind of song that turns heads on first listen—not just because it’s catchy, but because it’s unlike anything else in pop right now. “Music for a Sushi Restaurant” is a celebration of creativity, flavor, and freedom—and somehow, it totally works.
10. Sweet Creature (2017)
“Sweet Creature” is one of Harry Styles’ most intimate and heartfelt songs, a tender acoustic ballad that showcases his vulnerability and classic songwriting sensibility. Released in 2017 on his self-titled debut album, the track feels stripped back in the best way—just a softly plucked guitar, a warm melody, and Harry’s voice, front and center. It’s a song about love, but not just the easy kind—the kind that tests you, pulls you apart, and somehow still brings you back together. “Sweet creature, had another talk about where it’s going wrong,” he sings, capturing the complexity of relationships with simple, sincere lyrics. The melody is gentle and familiar, reminiscent of early Beatles ballads or something you’d hear on a Sunday morning with coffee and sunlight. What makes “Sweet Creature” so special is how personal it feels. It’s not flashy or overproduced; it’s Harry letting his guard down, inviting the listener into a quieter, more emotional space. Fans have long speculated about the inspiration behind it, but part of its magic is that it could be about anyone, for anyone. It’s soft, honest, and incredibly human—just like Harry himself in this song.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
