From his meteoric rise as a member of One Direction to his iconic solo career, Harry Styles has become one of the most celebrated artists of our time. Known for his magnetic stage presence, daring fashion sense, and genre-blending music, Harry has consistently pushed boundaries and won hearts worldwide. With a discography filled with chart-toppers and fan favorites, his songs have become anthems for love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular Harry Styles songs of all time—a collection of tracks that have defined his journey as an artist. Whether it’s the timeless allure of his debut solo single, the infectious grooves of his modern pop hits, or the heartfelt lyricism that resonates with millions, these songs showcase the many dimensions of Harry’s artistry. Each track is a testament to his ability to connect deeply with fans, transcending genres and generations.
So, grab your headphones and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Harry Styles. From soulful ballads to dancefloor-ready bangers, this list is a celebration of the music that has made Harry an icon. Let’s count down the hits that have stolen the spotlight—and our hearts!
1. Sign of the Times (2017)
Harry Styles’ debut single, “Sign of the Times,” released in 2017, marked a bold and significant step into his solo career after the breakup of One Direction. The song is a poignant blend of glam rock and deep emotional resonance, combining soaring falsetto with dramatic instrumentation that takes listeners on a journey. The sweeping orchestral arrangements and pounding drums create a sense of urgency, while Harry’s delivery of the powerful lyrics, “just stop your crying, it’s a sign of the times,” encourages resilience in the face of adversity. The song’s themes—dealing with crisis, the uncertainty of the future, and the search for hope in tough times—strike a universal chord. It’s both cinematic and personal, a perfect balance between vulnerability and anthemic strength. Its introspective mood is amplified by the grand soundscape, capturing the feeling of an uncertain world while offering solace through its message of perseverance. With its genre-blending style and emotionally-charged storytelling, “Sign of the Times” is not just a song, but a declaration of Harry Styles’ artistic reinvention. The track’s enduring popularity and critical acclaim cemented its place as one of his defining solo moments.
2. Watermelon Sugar (2019)
Released in 2019, “Watermelon Sugar” quickly became the anthem of the summer. A bright, feel-good track from his second album Fine Line, it encapsulates the carefree joy of summer romance, warmth, and nostalgia. With its sunny, groovy rhythm, Harry’s sultry vocals invite listeners to bask in the pleasure of fleeting moments, evoking images of summer days filled with sunshine and sweet memories. The song is a celebration of youthful energy, intimacy, and the joy of living in the present. Harry’s playful lyrics and the track’s vibrant instrumentation make it the perfect soundtrack for sun-soaked days and carefree adventures. The repetitive, catchy chorus is like a sunbeam that lingers long after the song ends. Beyond its upbeat groove, “Watermelon Sugar” carries a deeper sense of connection and sensuality, turning a seemingly simple ode to summer into a celebration of life’s sweetest pleasures. Its infectious melody and feel-good vibe quickly earned it recognition, becoming a staple of summer playlists and even winning a Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance. “Watermelon Sugar” isn’t just a song; it’s a vibe, a feeling, and an experience that fans continue to cherish.
3. Adore You (2019)
“Adore You,” from Harry Styles’ Fine Line album, is a song that embodies the beauty of devotion and longing, wrapped in a catchy, irresistible melody. Released in 2019, it blends heartwarming sincerity with a playful, whimsical vibe. The track’s smooth, rhythmic beat and warm, inviting vocals showcase Harry’s ability to mix heartfelt lyrics with a pop sensibility that feels timeless. The song tells the story of adoration and the deep, all-encompassing feelings that come with it, with Harry’s voice soaring through each note. The accompanying music video, which introduces the fictional island of Eroda and a mysterious fish character, adds an extra layer of charm and creativity, enhancing the track’s dreamy atmosphere. “Adore You” is more than just a love song; it’s a reflection of the joy and vulnerability of expressing affection. The playful, soft nature of the track contrasts with the depth of its message, creating a balance that resonates emotionally. With its infectious chorus and heartfelt lyrics, “Adore You” quickly became a fan favorite, capturing hearts with its earnestness and undeniable charm. It is a testament to Harry Styles’ talent for crafting songs that feel both personal and universally relatable.
4. As It Was (2022)
“As It Was,” the lead single from Harry Styles’ 2022 album Harry’s House, is an introspective yet energetic reflection on change, vulnerability, and the passage of time. The track opens with shimmering synths and a driving beat, creating a sense of upbeat momentum, but the lyrics quickly reveal a more somber undertone. Harry’s introspective musings on the inevitability of change and the challenge of facing personal transformation give the song an emotional depth that resonates deeply with listeners. The juxtaposition of the song’s infectious, synth-pop sound with its raw, vulnerable lyrics creates a unique listening experience—one that feels both nostalgic and modern. “As It Was” explores the tension between wanting things to remain the same and the reality of moving forward, even when it’s difficult. Harry’s ability to weave such personal reflections into a catchy, universally appealing track is what makes this song so special. Its infectious energy and poignant message propelled it to become one of his most-streamed hits, and it has since become a defining song of his career. “As It Was” speaks to the heart of what it means to grow, evolve, and face the unknown, offering both comfort and catharsis to fans worldwide.
5. Kiwi (2017)
“Kiwi,” from Harry Styles’ 2017 debut solo album, is a high-energy, rock-infused track that stands in stark contrast to the more mellow and introspective moments of the album. With its electrifying guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and Harry’s playful, irreverent vocals, the song is a burst of uncontained energy. It’s a wild, unapologetic anthem that showcases Harry’s rock star side, filled with attitude, intensity, and a sense of freedom. The track’s lyrics are cheeky and somewhat cryptic, adding to the rebellious spirit of the song. With lines like “I’m having your baby, it’s none of your business,” “Kiwi” is both bold and brash, exuding a sense of confidence and youthful defiance. The song is an absolute standout during Harry’s live performances, where its raw energy electrifies the crowd. There’s a palpable sense of fun and abandon in “Kiwi,” as Harry embraces his rock influences and lets loose. This track isn’t about overthinking or being introspective—it’s about feeling alive and expressing freedom through music. With its raucous guitar solo and energetic vibe, “Kiwi” became an instant fan favorite, proving Harry’s versatility and proving that he could take on any genre and make it his own.
6. Golden (2019)
Released in 2019, “Golden” from Fine Line is a gleaming, optimistic track that bursts with joy and warmth. The song opens the album with a sense of freedom and lightness, capturing the feeling of a carefree road trip under an open sky. The song’s breezy melody, soft guitar strums, and shimmering production create an atmosphere of euphoria and contentment. Harry’s vocals are full of affection as he sings lines like “You’re so golden,” capturing the essence of admiration and joy found in a new love or a meaningful connection. The track’s lyrics exude positivity and hope, painting a picture of someone who shines brightly in the midst of uncertainty. “Golden” feels like a celebration of life’s simple pleasures—the small moments of happiness that make everything feel right. Its uplifting energy makes it an anthem for anyone looking for a burst of optimism. The song’s carefree vibe is a perfect contrast to some of the darker, more introspective tracks on Fine Line, offering listeners a sense of balance. “Golden” stands out for its ability to evoke joy and warmth, and it quickly became a fan favorite, often praised for its emotional brightness and timeless feel.
7. Falling (2019)
“Falling,” from Harry Styles’ 2019 album Fine Line, is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that dives deep into the vulnerability of self-reflection and the pain of regret. The track’s delicate piano arrangement sets a somber tone, with each note resonating like a soft, lingering echo. Harry’s raw, emotional vocals capture the heartbreak and inner conflict of someone caught in a cycle of self-doubt and emotional turmoil. Lyrically, “Falling” explores themes of self-deception and regret, with Harry confessing that he’s “falling again,” a metaphor for losing control and repeating past mistakes. The vulnerability in his voice makes this song particularly poignant, as he opens up about the complexities of relationships and his own personal struggles. The track’s melancholic atmosphere contrasts with the upbeat, feel-good nature of other songs in Fine Line, offering a moment of introspection amidst the album’s broader themes. “Falling” is a deeply cathartic experience for listeners, with its raw honesty and beautiful simplicity. The combination of minimalistic piano and emotionally-charged lyrics makes it one of Harry’s most affecting songs, one that continues to resonate with fans who find comfort in its vulnerability and universal message of growth and self-awareness.
8. Late Night Talking (2022)
Released as part of Harry’s House in 2022, “Late Night Talking” is a lively, groovy track that combines a nostalgic 70s-inspired sound with modern pop sensibilities. The song’s smooth, funky rhythm and Harry’s signature falsetto give it a distinct charm, making it an instant standout. With its lighthearted and fun lyrics, the track encapsulates the warmth and intimacy of late-night conversations, when everything feels more personal and meaningful. The lyrics paint a picture of two people connecting on a deep level, sharing stories, laughter, and vulnerability into the small hours of the morning. “Late Night Talking” exudes a sense of closeness and comfort, a feeling of being completely at ease with someone. The retro production style, complete with groovy basslines and twinkling keys, gives the song a timeless quality that blends the past and present effortlessly. Harry’s playful delivery and engaging vocals make the track an absolute joy to listen to, while its relatable theme of connection makes it universally appealing. Whether you’re dancing to its beat or lost in its cozy vibe, “Late Night Talking” captures the magic of intimate conversations and the warmth of shared moments.
9. Treat People with Kindness (2019)
“Treat People with Kindness,” a standout from Fine Line (2019), is a jubilant, feel-good anthem that calls for positivity, kindness, and inclusion. With its gospel-inspired harmonies, infectious beat, and uplifting lyrics, the track is an invitation to spread love and be kind to others. Harry’s earnest delivery and the song’s upbeat, almost celebratory energy make it a perfect rallying cry for the values of empathy and understanding. “Treat People with Kindness” is a song that asks listeners to reflect on their actions and attitudes, encouraging a world where people are treated with dignity and respect. The feel-good nature of the track, combined with its strong message of compassion, has made it a favorite among fans who resonate with Harry’s ethos of love and acceptance. The uplifting melodies and harmonies feel like a warm embrace, and the song’s infectious chorus is impossible to ignore. This anthem has taken on a life of its own, becoming a central part of Harry’s live performances and a symbol of his broader message of unity and positivity. With its joyful energy and heartfelt message, “Treat People with Kindness” continues to inspire kindness and love in the world.
10. Matilda (2022)
“Matilda,” from Harry’s House (2022), is a tender, soul-stirring ballad that showcases Harry’s ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. The song’s stripped-down, acoustic arrangement allows the heartfelt lyrics to take center stage, and Harry’s empathetic delivery adds layers of sincerity and vulnerability. “Matilda” tells the story of a character finding solace and strength in the face of emotional hardship. With lyrics like “You’re not alone,” Harry offers comfort to anyone who feels misunderstood or unseen, encouraging them to find healing and strength within themselves. The track is a tribute to resilience, showing that no matter how difficult life may get, there’s always hope for a brighter future. The song’s intimate feel, combined with its deeply personal message, makes it one of Harry’s most emotionally resonant tracks. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the focus to remain on the message, and it’s through this vulnerability that “Matilda” strikes such a powerful chord with listeners. It’s a song that offers comfort and reassurance, reminding everyone that they are not alone in their struggles and that healing is possible. “Matilda” is a beautiful example of Harry’s ability to write deeply moving, relatable music that connects with fans on a personal level.
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.
