Step into the captivating world of Harry Styles, a global icon whose music has transcended boundaries and captured the hearts of millions. From his early days as a member of the chart-topping boy band One Direction to his meteoric rise as a solo artist, Harry has become a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. With his eclectic style, soulful voice, and fearless approach to artistry, he’s created a discography that resonates with fans across the globe.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Harry Styles songs of all time—a collection of hits that have defined his career and cemented his status as one of the most influential artists of his generation. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, prepare to be swept away by the emotional depth, infectious melodies, and timeless lyrics that make these songs unforgettable.
From heart-wrenching ballads to upbeat anthems, each track tells a story, reflecting Harry’s journey of self-discovery and musical evolution. So grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to explore the songs that have not only dominated charts but also shaped the soundtrack of countless lives. Let’s dive in!
1. Sign of the Times (2017)
Released as the lead single from Harry Styles’ debut solo album, Sign of the Times marked a significant departure from his One Direction days and introduced a more mature, introspective side of his artistry. This soaring ballad, with its intricate instrumentation and raw, emotional lyrics, quickly captured the attention of listeners worldwide. The song deals with themes of survival, resilience, and hope amid chaos—a message that resonated deeply, especially during a time when the world seemed uncertain. The hauntingly beautiful melody, coupled with Harry’s soaring falsetto, evokes a sense of urgency, almost as if the song is a cry for help. His voice, vulnerable yet powerful, conveys the internal conflict of facing overwhelming challenges, yet still holding on to the belief that things can get better. The song’s structure is a nod to the classic rock ballads of the ’70s, drawing comparisons to the likes of David Bowie and Pink Floyd, but Harry makes it his own by blending modern production with timeless themes. “Sign of the Times” is more than just a song—it’s an anthem for self-reflection and perseverance, urging listeners to not give up despite the chaos and confusion around them. The track quickly became a global hit, earning critical acclaim for its depth, maturity, and Harry’s ability to deliver such a powerful performance as a solo artist. With this release, Harry Styles solidified his place as a solo superstar, showing the world that he was ready to take on new challenges and make his mark in the music industry beyond One Direction.
2. Watermelon Sugar (2019)
There are few songs that can capture the essence of summer quite like Watermelon Sugar. Released as part of his sophomore album Fine Line, this vibrant and infectious track quickly became a cultural phenomenon, offering listeners a refreshing burst of joy and nostalgia. The song’s upbeat tempo, lively horns, and catchy chorus make it impossible not to smile when it comes on. But beyond its infectious energy, Watermelon Sugar is also a celebration of sensuality and youthful exuberance, encapsulating the carefree spirit of those warm summer months. Harry’s smooth vocals and the playful lyrics evoke feelings of sun-soaked afternoons, laughter with friends, and moments of simple, unfiltered pleasure. Its nostalgic vibe draws on memories of carefree summers, evoking the feeling of biting into a sweet watermelon on a hot day—refreshing and full of life. The upbeat groove is impossible to resist, and it quickly became a soundtrack to countless summer playlists around the world. With its irresistible charm and jubilant spirit, Watermelon Sugar became one of Harry’s most successful singles, earning him a Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance in 2021. Its infectious energy and lighthearted mood make it a timeless anthem for anyone who’s ever experienced the carefree joy of summer, and it stands as one of the most beloved tracks in his catalog.
3. Adore You (2019)
With Adore You, Harry Styles crafted one of the most beautiful love songs of his career, seamlessly blending dreamy production with heartfelt lyrics to create a track that feels both ethereal and deeply personal. Featured on Fine Line, the song tells the story of a devotion that goes beyond surface-level attraction. It’s a love that runs deep, a feeling that cannot easily be expressed in words but is instead conveyed through actions, emotions, and moments of quiet longing. The lush instrumentation, with its soft synths and smooth guitars, sets a serene tone that matches the vulnerability and sincerity of the lyrics. Harry’s voice, full of emotion and tenderness, captures the feeling of being utterly devoted to someone—wanting to show them how much they mean without needing to speak it aloud. The accompanying music video, which takes place in the fictional island of Eroda, adds a layer of fantasy and whimsy to the song, with Harry playing a man who becomes increasingly infatuated with a fish. This surreal element amplifies the song’s deeper themes of unconditional love, highlighting the idea that love is not always easy or logical, but is worth pursuing nonetheless. Adore You struck a chord with fans due to its relatability and its sincerity, making it a standout in Harry’s catalog. The combination of infectious melodies, emotionally charged lyrics, and a visually stunning video helped make Adore You one of the most iconic songs in the Fine Line era.
4. As It Was (2022)
As It Was marked a pivotal moment in Harry Styles’ musical evolution, serving as the lead single for his third studio album Harry’s House. The song blends upbeat, retro-inspired production with deeply personal lyrics that explore themes of change, self-discovery, and the complexities of relationships. The track opens with a shimmering synth, immediately drawing listeners in with its infectious melody. But beneath its lively exterior lies a more vulnerable, introspective narrative, with Harry singing about the emotional distance between himself and someone he once cared for. The lyrics reflect a sense of loss, as well as the realization that things can never quite go back to the way they were. Despite this, the song is not entirely somber—it retains a sense of optimism, with Harry urging himself and others to keep moving forward in the face of uncertainty. The juxtaposition of the song’s catchy, danceable beat with its more reflective themes creates a unique contrast that resonated deeply with listeners. As It Was quickly became a global hit, breaking streaming records and topping charts worldwide. Its success is a testament to Harry’s ability to evolve as an artist, while still maintaining the emotional depth and vulnerability that have always been present in his music. The song’s infectious energy, combined with its poignant lyrics about change and unfulfilled connections, make it a standout track in his discography. It’s a perfect example of how Harry Styles continues to push the boundaries of pop music, delivering songs that are both sonically innovative and emotionally resonant.
5. Falling (2019)
One of the most emotionally raw and vulnerable tracks in Harry Styles’ catalog, Falling from Fine Line showcases his ability to capture heartbreak and self-doubt with a level of honesty that is rare in pop music. The song begins with a simple, haunting piano melody that sets the tone for the introspective lyrics to come. Harry’s voice, stripped of any pretense, conveys the deep sorrow and confusion that come with falling out of love and realizing that you’re not the person you once were. The lyrics reflect a sense of regret and self-reflection, as Harry sings about the mistakes he’s made and the consequences of those choices. There’s a rawness to the song that feels deeply personal, as if Harry is opening up to the listener in a way that goes beyond mere storytelling. The sparse arrangement, with its emphasis on the piano and subtle strings, allows the emotion in his voice to take center stage, making the song feel intimate and confessional. Falling became an instant fan favorite, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of loss, regret, and vulnerability. The song’s universality lies in its exploration of the pain that comes from facing the consequences of one’s actions, and the vulnerability in Harry’s voice makes the song even more relatable. Falling is a standout in Harry’s discography because of its emotional depth, simple yet beautiful arrangement, and the way it showcases Harry’s ability to deliver raw, unfiltered emotion through his music.
6. Golden (2019)
Opening Fine Line with a burst of optimism and warmth, Golden immediately sets a dreamy, euphoric tone that carries throughout the rest of the album. The song is a celebration of life, love, and the joy that comes with being fully present in the moment. The shimmering guitars, breezy rhythm, and uplifting melodies evoke the feeling of a carefree road trip along the coast, the sun shining down, and the wind in your hair. There’s a sense of freedom in Golden that makes it impossible to listen to without feeling a little lighter, a little more hopeful. Yet, beneath the surface of the song’s joyous instrumentation, there is a subtle undercurrent of yearning and longing. The lyrics, though optimistic, carry a sense of vulnerability, as Harry sings about chasing after something or someone that feels just out of reach. It’s this mix of euphoria and introspection that makes Golden so special. The track is a perfect reflection of the emotional complexity that defines Fine Line as a whole—joyful yet tinged with a sense of melancholy. Golden was well-received by critics and fans alike, praised for its feel-good energy and the way it captures the spirit of freedom and possibility. The song quickly became a fan favorite, and its summery vibe made it a staple on playlists that celebrate all things lighthearted and carefree. It’s a perfect opening track for Fine Line, setting the stage for the emotional rollercoaster that follows while leaving listeners with a sense of hope and possibility.
7. Kiwi (2017)
With Kiwi, Harry Styles taps into his rock ‘n’ roll roots, delivering one of the most electrifying tracks of his solo career. This high-energy anthem, from his debut self-titled album, is brimming with attitude and swagger, showcasing a side of Harry that is bold, unrestrained, and ready to take risks. The song bursts to life with pounding drums, gritty guitar riffs, and a driving bassline that sets the tone for the rest of the track. Harry’s vocals are full of energy, his voice carrying a playful yet rebellious tone that perfectly matches the song’s fast-paced, anthemic vibe. Lyrically, Kiwi is playful and tongue-in-cheek, with Harry singing about a complicated relationship with someone who is as wild and unpredictable as the song itself. The lyrics, filled with vivid imagery and playful references, add to the song’s sense of fun and chaos, capturing the essence of youthful exuberance and impulsive decisions. The track’s raw energy makes it a standout in Harry’s catalog, and it quickly became a fan favorite, especially in live performances where the energy of the crowd matches the song’s intensity. The song’s infectious beat and rebellious spirit make it a perfect fit for anyone looking for a high-energy anthem to shake things up. With Kiwi, Harry proves that he can rock just as hard as he can sing a ballad, and the track stands as a testament to his versatility as an artist.
8. Late Night Talking (2022)
Late Night Talking is one of the most irresistible tracks from Harry Styles’ Harry’s House, offering a perfect blend of funk-inspired beats and smooth, seductive vocals. The song explores themes of love, companionship, and connection, with Harry singing about staying close to someone through the ups and downs of life. The track has a laid-back, almost jazzy vibe, with a groovy rhythm section and warm, atmospheric instrumentation that makes it feel intimate and cozy. Harry’s vocals glide effortlessly over the arrangement, adding to the song’s easygoing charm and giving it a sense of comfort. Lyrically, Late Night Talking is about the simple joy of being with someone who truly understands you, and the connection that deepens when you share late-night conversations, dreams, and moments of quiet affection. The song has a relaxed, feel-good energy that makes it perfect for winding down after a long day or enjoying a quiet night in with someone special. The smooth production and Harry’s emotive delivery make Late Night Talking an instant favorite, and its relatable themes of love and companionship have made it a song that resonates with listeners on a personal level. With this track, Harry demonstrates his ability to take a familiar theme—love and connection—and turn it into something fresh, comforting, and timeless. Late Night Talking is a standout on Harry’s House, showing yet another side of Harry’s musical versatility.
9. Lights Up (2019)
Lights Up served as the lead single for Harry Styles’ Fine Line album, and it marked a significant shift in both his sound and his approach to self-expression. The track blends soulful, atmospheric production with deeply introspective lyrics about identity and self-acceptance. The song opens with an airy, almost hypnotic melody, gradually building as Harry’s voice enters, vulnerable yet confident. The lyrics reflect a moment of realization, a turning point where Harry embraces his true self and sheds the layers of expectation and judgment that had previously weighed him down. The song’s chorus, with its powerful refrain of “Lights up on me,” feels like a declaration of freedom—a moment of stepping into the light and embracing who you truly are. The track’s production, with its soulful grooves and lush instrumentation, complements the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating a song that feels both intimate and expansive. Lights Up became a turning point in Harry’s career, signaling a shift toward greater openness and authenticity in both his music and his public persona. The song’s themes of self-acceptance, liberation, and embracing one’s identity resonated with fans around the world, and its empowering message continues to inspire listeners today. With Lights Up, Harry Styles reaffirmed his position as an artist who isn’t afraid to push boundaries and challenge expectations, both musically and personally.
10. Music for a Sushi Restaurant (2022)
Harry Styles’ Harry’s House is full of surprises, but perhaps none is as quirky and delightful as Music for a Sushi Restaurant. This track is a joyous celebration of sound, blending funky basslines, jazzy horns, and playful production to create a song that defies genre and expectation. From the very first note, the song pulls you in with its infectious energy and upbeat tempo, instantly setting a lighthearted tone. Harry’s charismatic vocals glide over the rhythm, adding a touch of playful charm to the track. The lyrics are whimsical and fun, offering a surreal take on a night out at a sushi restaurant, complete with quirky imagery and unexpected turns. The playful tone of the song is matched by the exuberant instrumentation, with the horns adding a jazzy flair that complements the funky bassline. Music for a Sushi Restaurant is a standout in Harry’s catalog because it showcases his willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of pop music. The track’s unconventional style and joyful energy make it a refreshing departure from the more serious themes that often dominate his work. With Music for a Sushi Restaurant, Harry proves that he can be both creative and playful, blending various musical influences into something entirely unique. It’s a song that celebrates fun, spontaneity, and the joy of trying something new, and it’s one of the most refreshing tracks in his discography.
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.
