Harry Styles has emerged as one of the defining musical icons of our generation, captivating audiences with his unique blend of pop, rock, and soul. From his early days with One Direction to his meteoric solo career, Styles has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined what it means to be a modern artist. His ability to weave heartfelt narratives into catchy melodies has garnered him a devoted fan base and critical acclaim alike.
In this article, we delve into the top 10 most popular Harry Styles songs of all time—each track a testament to his evolution as an artist and his knack for creating music that resonates deeply with listeners. From the anthemic choruses that make you want to sing along to the introspective ballads that tug at your heartstrings, Styles’ repertoire showcases his versatility and artistry. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to his music, this countdown promises to highlight the tracks that have shaped Styles’ career and left an indelible mark on the music landscape. Get ready to relive the magic and discover the songs that truly define Harry Styles!
1. “Sign of the Times” (2017)
“Sign of the Times” marked a bold and cinematic debut for Harry Styles as a solo artist, breaking away from his boy band beginnings with One Direction. Released in 2017, the song doesn’t chase pop trends—it rises above them. Built on a foundation of soaring piano, sweeping guitar, and emotionally charged vocals, this nearly six-minute ballad feels like an epic. At its heart, the song deals with pain, change, and the slow realization that things won’t always stay the same. Lyrics like “Just stop your crying, it’s a sign of the times” are simple but heavy, resonating with listeners facing personal or global uncertainty. Stylistically, it channels classic rock influences—David Bowie, Pink Floyd, even a little Queen—while still sounding fresh and distinctly Harry. His vocal performance is filled with emotion and control, capturing both despair and a faint flicker of hope. The accompanying music video, which features Styles floating above oceans and cliffs, mirrors the song’s theme of escape and reflection. With “Sign of the Times,” Styles introduced himself not just as a pop singer, but as an artist unafraid to be vulnerable, dramatic, and entirely himself.
2. “Watermelon Sugar” (2019)
“Watermelon Sugar” is pure sunshine bottled into a song. Released in 2019 as a single from Fine Line, it quickly became an anthem of summer joy, pleasure, and playfulness. The track opens with bright horns and a punchy guitar line that instantly sets the mood for something lighthearted and fun. But what really makes the song stand out is its tactile imagery—watermelon, strawberry skies, and that sweet rush of a summer fling. It doesn’t just describe a feeling—it immerses you in it. Lyrically, it celebrates a moment of bliss, intimacy, and nostalgia. There’s an undeniable sensual undercurrent, but it’s wrapped in a breezy, radio-friendly package. Harry’s vocal delivery is relaxed, warm, and slightly mischievous—he knows exactly what he’s doing here. The song’s success soared even higher with a beachy music video filled with sun, smiles, and flirtation, enhancing its feel-good reputation. Whether you’re dancing in your kitchen or soaking up the sun, “Watermelon Sugar” is a reminder to savor the moment, indulge your senses, and let go of worry—if only for three minutes and change.
3. “Adore You” (2019)
“Adore You” is one of those rare love songs that feels both massive and intimate. Released in 2019 as part of Fine Line, the track invites listeners into a world of quiet, unwavering affection. Harry Styles sings not with desperation but with gentle conviction, expressing a willingness to do anything for someone he loves. The production is polished but warm—soft synths, steady percussion, and subtle guitar strums that build into an irresistible groove. There’s an emotional weight to the song, but it never tips into melodrama. Instead, it floats, anchored by Harry’s earnest vocal tone. The fictional backdrop of Eroda, a lonely island invented for the song’s cinematic music video, adds a whimsical layer that makes the experience even richer. It’s a fairy tale of sorts—about love, loneliness, and connection. “Adore You” is less about grand gestures and more about being present, being steady, and being real. It’s a love song not for fairy-tale endings, but for the everyday moments that truly matter.
4. “Falling” (2019)
“Falling” is Harry Styles at his most raw and vulnerable. Released in 2019 as a standout ballad from Fine Line, it captures the quiet devastation that comes after a heartbreak—those moments when you’re left alone with your thoughts and the weight of your mistakes. The song’s arrangement is simple: just piano and voice, which allows every lyric to hit with full emotional force. “What am I now? What if I’m someone I don’t want around?”—these aren’t polished, confident declarations. They’re confessions, whispered from the depths of regret and self-doubt. Harry’s voice cracks in all the right places, delivering a performance that’s unguarded and deeply human. “Falling” doesn’t seek pity—it simply tells the truth, and in doing so, it connects with anyone who has ever messed up and felt the sting of letting someone go. The song stands as a reminder that even in success, even in stardom, we’re all still figuring ourselves out. It’s a gut-punch in the best way—heartbreaking, honest, and quietly beautiful.
5. “Lights Up” (2019)
“Lights Up” isn’t just a song—it’s a declaration of self. Released in 2019 as the lead single from Fine Line, it signaled a new era for Harry Styles, one that embraced complexity, ambiguity, and joy in personal discovery. From the opening moments, the track feels hypnotic: swirling guitars, echoing vocals, and a steady groove that lifts you up rather than pushing forward. The lyrics are intentionally elusive but powerful—“Do you know who you are?” he asks, not with judgment, but with curiosity and encouragement. It’s a song about stepping into the light, even when it’s uncomfortable. The music video adds to this message, showing Harry surrounded by bodies, vulnerability, and euphoria, unafraid of being seen. “Lights Up” doesn’t offer answers—it simply celebrates the courage it takes to ask the questions. Whether interpreted as a coming out story, a personal rebirth, or a musical evolution, it’s clear that Harry was no longer trying to fit into a box. He was ready to shine, on his own terms.
6. “Kiwi” (2017)
“Kiwi” is chaos—in the best possible way. Released in 2017 on Harry Styles’ debut solo album, this track is a wild, high-octane rock anthem that explodes with swagger and cheeky bravado. From the very first distorted guitar riff, you know this isn’t going to be a quiet song about feelings—it’s a full-throttle, unapologetic dive into reckless romance and mischief. Lyrically, it’s cryptic and playful, with lines like “She worked her way through a cheap pack of cigarettes” painting vivid images of a woman who’s just as wild as the track itself. Harry’s vocal delivery is gritty and explosive, matching the song’s chaotic energy beat for beat. “Kiwi” feels like it was made to be performed live, with the crowd screaming every word. It’s loud, it’s messy, and it doesn’t take itself too seriously—which makes it endlessly fun. This is Harry embracing his inner rock star, shedding the polished pop persona of his past and leaning full force into a sound that’s bold, rebellious, and completely unpredictable.
7. “Sweet Creature” (2017)
“Sweet Creature” is a tender, acoustic ballad that feels like a letter passed between two souls trying to find their way back to each other. Released in 2017, the song strips everything down to basics—just Harry’s voice, a gently plucked guitar, and lyrics that speak straight from the heart. There’s a warmth in its simplicity, echoing classic folk influences like The Beatles or Nick Drake. The beauty lies in its honesty. “Wherever I go, you bring me home,” he sings, capturing the kind of love that feels like a compass—one that remains steady even when everything else is uncertain. It’s a song about disagreements and distances, but more importantly, about the quiet, constant connection that never really fades. Harry’s voice is soft but sure, filled with affection and vulnerability. “Sweet Creature” doesn’t shout to be heard—it gently tugs at your sleeve and invites you to remember what matters most. It’s the kind of song you play on a long walk, during a quiet night, or when you need to feel a little less alone.
8. “Treat People With Kindness” (2021)
“Treat People With Kindness” is a joyful, retro-inspired anthem that embodies Harry Styles’ ethos of love, empathy, and positivity. Released in 2021 from Fine Line, the song leans into a vintage groove, complete with gospel-style backing vocals, horns, and an irresistibly buoyant rhythm. It sounds like something you’d hear at the end of a feel-good movie or during a dance party full of confetti and laughter. But beyond its playful sound, the message is clear and powerful: be kind, be open, and lead with your heart. It’s a simple idea, but one that’s often forgotten in a fast-paced, complicated world. The track’s release came at a time when kindness felt especially needed, and its title became more than a lyric—it became a mantra for fans. The music video, full of lighthearted dancing and vintage glamour, only adds to its charm. “Treat People With Kindness” is a reminder that music doesn’t always have to be moody or intense—it can be uplifting, inclusive, and full of joy. And in true Harry fashion, it manages to be both cool and heartfelt all at once.
9. “As It Was” (2022)
“As It Was” is a brilliant blend of melancholy and motion. Released in 2022 as the lead single from Harry’s House, it marked a new chapter in Styles’ evolving sound. Driven by shimmering synths and an upbeat tempo, the track feels energetic on the surface—but the lyrics tell a different story. It’s about change, disconnection, and the quiet ache of realizing that things won’t ever be quite the same. “You know it’s not the same as it was,” he sings repeatedly, turning the phrase into a mantra of both acceptance and longing. The contrast between the song’s danceable beat and its reflective words makes it feel emotionally layered—joy and sadness all at once. Harry’s vocal delivery is more conversational than theatrical here, inviting us into his inner world. The accompanying video, full of symbolism and motion, mirrors the push and pull of nostalgia and forward movement. “As It Was” is a modern pop masterpiece—introspective, catchy, and achingly human.
10. “Late Night Talking” (2022)
“Late Night Talking” is warm, playful, and overflowing with charm. Released in 2022 from Harry’s House, the song captures the intimacy of those quiet, personal moments shared in the stillness of night. From the first note, you’re welcomed into a cozy world where love isn’t loud—it’s felt in whispered conversations, shared blankets, and lingering laughter. The production is silky and smooth, with just the right amount of bounce to keep things lively without overwhelming the tenderness. Lyrically, it’s about wanting to be there for someone—through distance, doubt, or even just a rough day. Harry’s delivery is soft but assured, full of affection and comfort. What makes “Late Night Talking” so special is that it doesn’t try to be dramatic or deep—it just captures the joy of being close to someone, of letting a conversation drift into the early hours because you simply don’t want it to end. It’s a modern love song that celebrates connection in its simplest, most human form.
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.
