Harry Styles has undeniably carved out a unique and influential space in the music industry since his rise to fame as a member of One Direction. With his distinctive voice, eclectic style, and magnetic stage presence, Styles has captivated fans worldwide, transforming from a teenage heartthrob into a bona fide solo superstar. His solo career has been marked by a series of chart-topping hits that showcase his artistic evolution, drawing inspiration from rock, pop, and even folk influences.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 most popular Harry Styles songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that have defined his career and resonated with millions. From upbeat anthems that make you want to dance to heartfelt ballads that tug at your emotions, each song reflects Styles’ versatility as an artist. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, this countdown promises to highlight the magic that is Harry Styles — a blend of infectious melodies, poignant lyrics, and a charm that keeps us coming back for more. Join us as we dive into the soundtrack of Styles’ journey and discover what makes these songs truly unforgettable!
1. Sign of the Times (2017)
“Sign of the Times” is a breathtaking debut single that cemented Harry Styles as a solo artist with undeniable depth and versatility. Released in April 2017, the song is a poignant, arena-sized ballad filled with emotional gravitas. From the opening piano chords to the soaring crescendo, Styles creates a soundscape that is both nostalgic and timeless, channeling the spirit of classic rock ballads from artists like David Bowie.
Lyrically, the song confronts themes of fear, struggle, and perseverance, encouraging listeners to push through life’s challenges. Lines such as “Just stop your crying, it’s a sign of the times” evoke a sense of urgency while offering solace. Styles’ emotive vocal delivery carries a raw vulnerability that elevates the track’s powerful message. His falsetto moments are chilling, while the climactic build-up leaves an indelible mark on the listener’s heart.
The music video, set in a surreal landscape with Styles soaring above rugged terrain, mirrors the song’s larger-than-life themes. The visual metaphor of rising above adversity ties perfectly to the lyrical content, creating a cohesive artistic vision. “Sign of the Times” not only announced Harry Styles as a serious solo artist but also highlighted his ability to tackle weighty themes with both sensitivity and grandeur. It remains a cornerstone of his discography and a testament to his artistry.
2. Watermelon Sugar (2019)
“Watermelon Sugar” is a radiant ode to the pleasures of life, love, and summer. Released in November 2019, the track captures the essence of warm, carefree days and the joy of savoring fleeting moments. Its upbeat, retro-inspired instrumentation immediately evokes a sense of nostalgia, blending funky guitar riffs with a pulsating rhythm that’s impossible to resist.
The lyrics are playful and sensual, with the phrase “Watermelon Sugar” symbolizing sweetness and delight, leaving room for personal interpretation. Harry Styles delivers the song with an infectious energy, his voice gliding effortlessly over the lush production. The chorus is irresistibly catchy, making it a sing-along favorite at concerts and a staple in summer playlists.
The accompanying music video amplifies the song’s vibrant spirit, featuring Styles and a group of friends enjoying sun-soaked beach scenes, carefree laughter, and vibrant fruit platters. It’s a celebration of connection and joy, perfectly aligning with the song’s exuberant vibe.
Beyond its feel-good nature, “Watermelon Sugar” became a massive commercial success, topping charts worldwide and earning Styles his first Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance. Its infectious energy and celebratory tone make it one of his most iconic tracks, embodying the simple pleasures of life and love in a way that resonates universally.
3. Adore You (2019)
“Adore You” is a heartfelt declaration of unconditional love and devotion, released in December 2019 as part of Harry Styles’ second studio album, Fine Line. The song’s dreamy production combines lush synths, groovy basslines, and an irresistible beat that exudes warmth and intimacy. Styles’ tender vocal delivery perfectly captures the song’s emotional core, making it an instant fan favorite.
The lyrics are simple yet deeply affectionate, with lines like “Just let me adore you” conveying a pure, unselfish kind of love. It’s a song about cherishing someone wholeheartedly, and Styles brings this sentiment to life with sincerity and charm. The melody flows effortlessly, creating a track that feels both comforting and uplifting.
Accompanying the song is a whimsical music video set on the fictional island of Eroda. The surreal narrative follows Styles as he befriends a lonely fish, showcasing themes of kindness and connection in a visually captivating way. The storytelling aspect adds depth to the song, highlighting Styles’ knack for blending music with compelling visuals.
“Adore You” received critical acclaim for its polished production and heartfelt lyrics, solidifying Styles as an artist capable of delivering both emotional depth and commercial appeal. Its universal themes of love and acceptance ensure its place as a standout track in his repertoire.
4. Falling (2019)
“Falling” is a raw and introspective ballad that delves into themes of heartbreak, regret, and self-discovery. Released in December 2019 as part of Harry Styles’ Fine Line album, the song strips back the production to let Styles’ emotional vocal performance shine.
The track opens with a delicate piano melody that sets a somber tone, mirroring the vulnerability in the lyrics. Styles confronts feelings of loss and self-doubt, asking “What am I now? What if I’m someone I don’t want around?” These questions resonate deeply, capturing the universal struggle of grappling with personal failures and heartbreak.
Styles’ voice carries an aching sincerity, particularly during the climactic moments when the raw pain in his delivery is palpable. The simplicity of the arrangement—centered around piano and vocals—emphasizes the intimacy of the song, making it feel like a personal confession shared directly with the listener.
The music video, featuring Styles submerged in water as the room around him floods, serves as a powerful metaphor for being overwhelmed by emotions. The visual imagery enhances the song’s narrative, creating an immersive experience that lingers long after the final note.
“Falling” is a testament to Styles’ growth as a songwriter and his ability to convey deep emotions with authenticity. Its haunting beauty and introspective nature make it a standout track in his catalog and a favorite among fans seeking solace in its poignant message.
5. Lights Up (2019)
“Lights Up” is a powerful anthem of self-discovery and liberation, released in October 2019. The song opens with an infectious blend of dreamy synths and a laid-back groove, setting the stage for Harry Styles’ exploration of identity and acceptance. From the first note, the track feels like a journey—one that invites listeners to shed their inhibitions and embrace their true selves.
Lyrically, “Lights Up” is a declaration of personal freedom, with Styles singing “Lights up and they know who you are” as a call to embrace authenticity without fear of judgment. The song’s chorus is bold and uplifting, infusing an infectious sense of joy and self-assurance. Styles’ voice conveys confidence and warmth, creating a space where listeners feel empowered to embrace who they are, flaws and all.
The music video amplifies the song’s themes of transformation and liberation, with Styles seen in various vibrant and fluidly changing scenes, representing the fluidity of identity. His imagery, along with the upbeat tempo and infectious chorus, creates an atmosphere of celebration—of letting go and living freely.
“Lights Up” quickly became a fan favorite, earning widespread praise for its blend of upbeat energy and thoughtful, introspective themes. Its production, which balances nostalgia with modern sounds, speaks to Styles’ ability to create music that is both timeless and contemporary. The song’s underlying message of acceptance and the joy of being true to oneself has made it an anthem for those seeking to find their light.
6. Kiwi (2017)
“Kiwi” is a high-energy, raucous track that immediately stands out in Harry Styles’ solo catalog. Released in September 2017, the song is a complete departure from the softer ballads on his debut album, showcasing a more rebellious, rock-infused side of the artist. With gritty guitars, a stomping beat, and a relentless energy, “Kiwi” feels like a throwback to the golden age of rock music, while still bearing the distinct mark of Styles’ musical identity.
Lyrically, “Kiwi” is playful and exuberant, featuring an exuberant chorus that invites listeners to let loose and enjoy the chaos. The song’s infectious energy is heightened by its quirky lyrics, which are filled with imagery and a sense of fun. The repeated refrain of “I want you to hold me, like I’m a young man” creates a sense of carefree nostalgia, evoking the wildness of youth and infatuation.
In the accompanying music video, Styles adds to the track’s offbeat charm with a playful and absurd narrative involving a baby kiwi bird, creating a whimsical visual accompaniment that aligns with the track’s unpredictable vibe. The video enhances the song’s playful, carefree energy, cementing “Kiwi” as one of his most memorable and unpredictable tracks.
“Kiwi” quickly became a fan favorite, thanks to its irrepressible energy and undeniable rock roots. The song has become a highlight of his live shows, where it never fails to get the crowd on their feet, screaming every word. Its rebellious spirit makes it one of the most exciting tracks in his repertoire.
7. Sweet Creature (2017)
“Sweet Creature” is a tender, acoustic-driven ballad that captures the emotional essence of young love, vulnerability, and longing. Released in May 2017, the song’s simplicity—driven by its acoustic guitar arrangement and minimalist production—lets Harry Styles’ voice shine, delivering a raw and heartfelt performance. The song’s gentle tone and earnest lyrics make it one of his most emotionally resonant tracks.
The lyrics of “Sweet Creature” reflect themes of connection and intimacy, as Styles sings about navigating a complicated relationship and the emotions that come with it. Lines like “Sweet creature, sweet creature, wherever I go, you bring me home” convey a deep sense of longing and emotional attachment, while the refrain of “I’m just a little bit of a fool” adds a layer of vulnerability to the song.
The track’s simplicity is its greatest strength, allowing the vulnerability in Styles’ voice to resonate deeply with listeners. His delivery is tender yet assured, evoking the complexity of emotions in a relationship that feels both fleeting and timeless. The quiet intimacy of “Sweet Creature” makes it a perfect addition to his debut album, standing out as one of the more soulful and reflective tracks.
“Sweet Creature” became an instant fan favorite, and it continues to be one of Styles’ most cherished songs. Its heartfelt lyrics and acoustic charm make it a perfect showcase of his ability to express deep emotional truth through music, reminding listeners of the beauty of love and connection in its simplest form.
8. Treat People With Kindness (2021)
“Treat People With Kindness,” released in January 2021, is a celebratory anthem that radiates joy, positivity, and the importance of compassion. The song’s upbeat, retro-inspired production immediately grabs attention, with its infectious rhythm and orchestral flair, reminiscent of ’70s disco and pop. With its vibrant instrumentation and catchy hooks, “Treat People With Kindness” has become one of Harry Styles’ most feel-good tracks to date.
Lyrically, the song promotes kindness and unity, offering a simple yet profound message: “Treat people with kindness.” The song’s message is universal and uplifting, encouraging listeners to spread love and positivity in a world that can often feel divisive. Styles’ bright and charismatic vocal delivery adds to the song’s feel-good factor, making it impossible not to smile and dance along.
The music video reinforces the song’s message with its colorful, joyful visuals, featuring Styles and his band members performing against a backdrop of vibrant costumes and energetic choreography. The video’s playful nature complements the song’s upbeat spirit, highlighting the importance of community and the power of kindness.
“Treat People With Kindness” quickly became an anthem of positivity, earning praise for its infectious energy and heartwarming message. In a time when the world seemed divided, the song reminded listeners that kindness is always the answer. Its cheerful vibe and socially conscious lyrics make it a track that resonates with listeners from all walks of life, spreading joy and good intentions.
9. As It Was (2022)
“As It Was,” released in April 2022, became an instant cultural phenomenon, blending retro sounds with contemporary pop sensibilities to create a track that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The song’s upbeat, synth-pop production sets the stage for an introspective exploration of change, loss, and personal growth. It captures the bittersweet realization that nothing stays the same, with a touch of melancholy woven into its danceable beats.
Lyrically, “As It Was” delves into the theme of change, with Styles reflecting on the feeling of things no longer being as they once were. Lines like “You know that I love you so, but it’s hard to say” express a sense of yearning for something lost, while also acknowledging the necessity of moving forward. The song’s theme of nostalgia is palpable, yet it also conveys a sense of acceptance and self-reflection.
The song’s sound evokes the best of ‘80s synth-pop, with its shimmering synths and pulsating bassline creating a dreamy atmosphere. Despite its danceable beat, there is an underlying sadness in the lyrics, which creates an emotional contrast that makes the track even more powerful. Styles’ performance is infectious yet vulnerable, capturing the essence of the song’s themes of personal reflection and the inevitability of change.
“As It Was” quickly became one of Styles’ most successful singles, topping charts around the world and solidifying its place as one of the defining songs of 2022. The track’s relatable lyrics, irresistible hook, and emotional depth make it an anthem for those experiencing change, whether it’s in relationships, personal growth, or life in general.
10. Late Night Talking (2022)
“Late Night Talking,” released in June 2022, is a smooth and sultry track that captures the feeling of intimate conversations and the warmth of being emotionally connected to someone. With its breezy rhythm and laid-back vibe, the song exudes a relaxed confidence, inviting listeners into a world of late-night musings and personal reflection. It’s a track that feels intimate, like a conversation between two people who know each other well.
Lyrically, “Late Night Talking” centers on the comfort of being with someone who makes you feel at ease, exploring themes of connection and vulnerability. Lines like “You’re the one I want to be around” and “I don’t want to be the one that you leave” express a sense of closeness and emotional depth. The song is full of playful flirtation, but it also conveys a deeper longing for understanding and companionship.
The production is rich and mellow, with a groovy bassline and smooth rhythm section that creates a relaxed atmosphere. Styles’ voice, as always, takes center stage, effortlessly gliding through the melody with ease. His performance is cool and confident, drawing listeners into the warmth and intimacy of the song. The track feels like an invitation into a private moment, where time slows down, and emotions are shared freely.
“Late Night Talking” stands out as a fan favorite, partly due to its infectious groove and laid-back charm. It’s a perfect example of Styles’ ability to create songs that blend personal connection with universal themes, making it an enjoyable and deeply resonant addition to his catalog. Whether you’re lost in a late-night conversation or simply reflecting on the nature of connection, this track captures the feeling of being seen and understood.
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.
