Few artists in recent memory have captured the hearts of millions quite like Harry Styles. From his breakout days as a member of One Direction to his meteoric rise as a solo artist, Styles has cemented himself as a global icon. His music is an irresistible blend of heartfelt lyrics, genre-defying innovation, and charismatic charm, making him a favorite among fans of all ages. But which of his songs have truly stood the test of time? Which tracks have defined his career, dominated the charts, and become anthems for millions around the world?
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Harry Styles songs of all time. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer curious about his music, this countdown is packed with timeless hits, emotional ballads, and electrifying bops that showcase Styles’ evolution as an artist. From the soulful introspection of “Sign of the Times” to the infectious rhythms of “Watermelon Sugar,” this list celebrates the very best of Harry’s artistry. So, turn up the volume, grab your headphones, and get ready to relive the magic of Harry Styles’ greatest hits. Let the countdown begin!
1. Sign of the Times (2017)
When Harry Styles launched his solo career in 2017, he didn’t just step away from his One Direction past—he shattered expectations. Sign of the Times, his debut single, was a breathtaking ballad that announced his arrival as a serious artist. Straying from the pop formulas of his boyband days, the song embraced a grand, cinematic sound influenced by legends like David Bowie and Queen.
Built around soaring vocals, melancholic piano chords, and sweeping guitar riffs, Sign of the Times paints a haunting picture of struggle and hope. Its cryptic yet emotional lyrics, which Styles has described as a conversation about the end of the world, offer a sense of comfort despite their somber tone. The chorus explodes with anthemic power as Harry pleads, “Just stop your crying, it’s a sign of the times.”
Critics praised the track for its ambition and depth, calling it a bold artistic statement. It quickly became a fan favorite and a standout moment in Styles’ career, proving that he was more than just a former boyband member—he was an artist with a unique vision. Sign of the Times remains one of his most defining songs, a timeless piece of emotional rock grandeur.
2. Watermelon Sugar (2019)
If there was ever a song built for summer, it’s Watermelon Sugar. Released in 2019 as part of Harry Styles’ Fine Line album, this sun-soaked anthem is pure bliss. With its playful lyrics, infectious melody, and retro-inspired production, the song quickly became a feel-good hit, evoking images of warm beach days and carefree romance.
Lyrically, Watermelon Sugar is both sweet and suggestive, celebrating the excitement and pleasure of a passionate relationship. Styles’ smooth, confident vocals glide over a groovy bassline and bright brass flourishes, creating a euphoric soundscape. It’s a song that begs to be blasted with the windows down, the kind of track that immediately lifts your mood.
The song dominated the charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Harry his first-ever Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance. The music video, filled with vibrant colors, fruit-filled feasts, and carefree joy, perfectly complemented the track’s summery vibe. Whether you interpret it as a metaphor or simply a celebration of life’s pleasures, Watermelon Sugar is an undeniable pop gem that cemented Harry’s place as a solo superstar.
3. Adore You (2019)
Few songs capture the feeling of unconditional love quite like Adore You. Released in 2019 as part of Fine Line, this shimmering pop track blends lush production with Harry Styles’ signature soulful vocals, creating a song that’s both heartfelt and irresistibly catchy.
The lyrics tell a story of complete devotion, with Harry crooning, “I’d walk through fire for you, just let me adore you.” The song’s production is rich and layered, with a pulsing bassline and dreamy guitar riffs that create an atmosphere of warmth and intimacy. It’s an uplifting anthem about the pure joy of loving someone without hesitation.
Adding to the song’s allure is its imaginative music video, set in the fictional town of Eroda. The whimsical story of Harry befriending a lonely fish became an unexpected yet charming visual metaphor for kindness and acceptance. Fans embraced the concept, making the video an essential part of the song’s identity.
Adore You was a commercial success, becoming one of Styles’ most-streamed songs and a staple of his live performances. With its irresistible melody and heartfelt lyrics, it remains a standout in his catalog—a song that radiates warmth and devotion.
4. As It Was (2022)
Released in 2022 as the lead single from Harry’s House, As It Was quickly became one of Harry Styles’ most defining hits. The song’s bright, synth-driven sound may feel upbeat, but beneath the shimmering production lies a deeply introspective track about change, loneliness, and the passage of time.
Opening with a child’s voice saying, “Come on, Harry, we wanna say goodnight to you!” the song immediately establishes a sense of nostalgia and longing. The lyrics, “You know it’s not the same as it was,” repeat like a bittersweet realization—acknowledging that life inevitably moves forward, often in ways we don’t expect. Styles’ vocals are raw yet controlled, adding to the song’s emotional depth.
The 80s-inspired production, featuring crisp drum beats and sparkling synths, gives the track a vibrant, danceable energy. It’s a song that makes you want to move, even as you reflect on its melancholic themes. As It Was dominated the charts, spending multiple weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and breaking streaming records worldwide.
With its blend of personal storytelling and infectious melody, As It Was solidified Harry’s place as one of the most innovative artists in modern pop. It’s a song that captures a universal feeling—how life changes in ways we never quite expect.
5. Falling (2019)
Falling is one of the most heartbreaking songs in Harry Styles’ discography. Released in 2019 as part of Fine Line, this haunting piano ballad delves into themes of regret, self-doubt, and lost love. Unlike many of Harry’s upbeat hits, Falling is stripped down and raw, letting his emotional delivery take center stage.
The lyrics paint a devastating picture of someone grappling with the consequences of their actions. “What am I now? What if I’m someone I don’t want around?” he asks, his voice filled with anguish. The song’s melancholic melody and slow, aching progression add to the sense of sadness, making it one of the most intimate tracks he’s ever recorded.
Fans and critics alike praised Falling for its vulnerability, with many calling it one of the most emotionally powerful songs on Fine Line. The accompanying music video, featuring Harry submerged in water as his surroundings flood, visually amplifies the song’s themes of drowning in sorrow.
Whether you’ve experienced heartbreak or not, Falling has a way of cutting deep. It’s a song that lingers long after it ends—a reminder of how love and loss can leave us questioning everything.
6. Golden (2019)
Few songs radiate as much warmth and energy as Golden. Released in 2019 as the opening track of Fine Line, this feel-good anthem is all about freedom, self-discovery, and embracing the moment. With its soaring melodies and euphoric energy, it sets the perfect tone for the rest of the album.
From the very first drumbeat, Golden feels like a burst of sunshine. The song’s breezy guitars and upbeat tempo make it impossible not to smile while listening. Lyrically, it speaks to the excitement and fear of falling in love, with Harry singing, “I know that you’re scared because hearts get broken.” It’s a song about taking risks, about letting go of hesitation and stepping into something beautiful.
The music video, filmed along the Amalfi Coast in Italy, perfectly captures the song’s spirit. Harry runs through sunlit streets and open roads, exuding pure joy and freedom. Fans quickly embraced Golden as one of his most uplifting tracks, making it a highlight of his live shows.
With its infectious energy and optimistic lyrics, Golden is a song that feels like an endless summer day. It’s a reminder to embrace life’s beauty and not be afraid of what’s to come.
7. Kiwi (2017)
If there’s one song that proves Harry Styles can rock just as hard as he can croon, it’s Kiwi. Released in 2017 from his debut self-titled album, this high-energy track is pure chaos in the best way possible. With its gritty guitar riffs, explosive chorus, and rebellious attitude, Kiwi is a fiery anthem that showcases Harry’s edgier side.
Unlike the introspective ballads he’s known for, Kiwi is unapologetically wild. The lyrics, which seem to tell the story of a whirlwind romance, are full of playful mystery. Lines like “I’m having your baby, it’s none of your business” left fans speculating about their meaning, but Harry has remained coy, adding to the song’s intrigue.
On stage, Kiwi takes on a whole new life. It’s a fan-favorite at concerts, with the crowd screaming every word as Harry throws himself into the performance. The song’s raw, unfiltered energy makes it one of the most electrifying moments in his setlist.
Whether it’s a love story, a joke, or simply an excuse to unleash some rock-and-roll energy, Kiwi is an undeniable highlight in Harry’s catalog. It’s proof that he’s not afraid to push boundaries and have fun while doing it.
8. Late Night Talking (2022)
With its groovy rhythm and irresistible charm, Late Night Talking is one of Harry Styles’ most effortlessly cool tracks. Released in 2022 as part of Harry’s House, the song captures the excitement of staying up all night talking to someone you can’t get enough of.
The production is smooth and polished, featuring a funky bassline and rich harmonies that give the song a vintage feel. Lyrically, it’s playful and romantic, with Harry singing about wanting to be there for someone no matter where they are. The chorus, “If you’re feeling down, I just wanna make you happier, baby,” radiates warmth and affection.
The music video leans into the song’s dreamy, whimsical nature, featuring Harry traveling through different surreal beds, reinforcing the song’s theme of late-night intimacy. It perfectly complements the track’s carefree, joyful vibe.
Late Night Talking quickly became a favorite among fans, proving that Harry excels at crafting songs that are both fun and deeply relatable. With its infectious melody and feel-good energy, it’s a song that captures the magic of falling for someone new.
9. Lights Up (2019)
Released in 2019 as the lead single from Fine Line, Lights Up signaled a bold new direction for Harry Styles. The track blends dreamy, psychedelic pop with introspective lyrics about self-discovery and personal transformation. Its hypnotic sound, layered harmonies, and thought-provoking message made it an instant standout in his discography.
From the very first notes, Lights Up feels ethereal and mysterious. The production is lush yet understated, featuring shimmering synths and warm guitar tones that build into a swirling sonic experience. Lyrically, Harry explores themes of identity and acceptance, repeating the haunting question, “Do you know who you are?” It’s a moment of reflection—one that resonates with anyone who has ever felt lost or uncertain about where they belong.
The music video further emphasizes this theme. It features Harry surrounded by people in a dreamlike haze, bathed in warm red and blue lighting, symbolizing both temptation and revelation. The visuals sparked conversation about the song’s deeper meaning, with many interpreting it as a personal statement about Harry embracing his true self.
Lights Up marked a turning point in Harry’s career, proving that he wasn’t afraid to take risks and challenge expectations. It’s a song that captures the beauty of self-acceptance and stepping into the unknown with confidence.
10. Music for a Sushi Restaurant (2022)
Playful, funky, and full of surprises, Music for a Sushi Restaurant is one of the most unique songs in Harry Styles’ catalog. Released in 2022 as part of Harry’s House, the track leans into a jazzy, experimental sound that feels fresh and completely unexpected. With its bouncy horns, layered harmonies, and quirky lyrics, it’s a celebration of fun and creativity.
Unlike some of Harry’s introspective ballads, Music for a Sushi Restaurant is all about the groove. The bassline is deep and infectious, while the horns bring a burst of energy that makes it impossible not to move. Lyrically, the song is abstract and playful, with lines like “Green eyes, fried rice, I could cook an egg on you” adding to its offbeat charm. It’s clear that Harry was having fun when creating this track, and that joy is contagious for listeners.
The song’s music video takes the quirkiness to another level, portraying Harry as a half-human, half-squid creature in a surreal restaurant setting. It’s bizarre, whimsical, and totally in line with the song’s unpredictable nature.
Music for a Sushi Restaurant proves that Harry Styles isn’t afraid to push boundaries and experiment with his sound. It’s a track that thrives on pure, uninhibited energy—a reminder that music doesn’t always have to be serious to be brilliant.
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.
