Harry Styles, the charismatic pop sensation and former One Direction heartthrob, has captured the hearts of millions with his distinctive voice and magnetic stage presence. As a solo artist, he has redefined modern pop music, blending genres and defying norms with his eclectic sound and bold aesthetic. From poignant ballads to infectious anthems, Styles has consistently pushed musical boundaries, earning critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase.
In this article, we delve into the top 10 most popular Harry Styles songs of all time, showcasing the tracks that have not only topped charts but also resonated deeply with listeners around the world. Each song tells a unique story, reflecting Styles’ personal experiences and artistic evolution. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, this countdown promises a thrilling exploration of his greatest hits. Get ready to relive the moments that made us dance, cry, and celebrate love—all through the mesmerizing lens of Harry Styles’ artistry. Join us as we embark on a melodious journey through his most iconic tracks, each one a testament to his remarkable talent and undeniable charm!
1. Sign of the Times (2017)
“Sign of the Times” marked a bold and emotional debut for Harry Styles as a solo artist, stepping away from his boy band roots to deliver something both cinematic and deeply personal. Released in 2017, the song takes the form of a sweeping rock ballad with orchestral flourishes, slow-building intensity, and haunting piano chords. Lyrically, it’s a reflection on turmoil and endings—wrapped in metaphors of war, heartbreak, and the fragility of life. Styles’ vocals soar with raw vulnerability, giving weight to each word and conveying a sense of urgent sorrow mixed with fragile hope. It’s not just a song about one person’s pain—it’s a song that speaks to a world in distress, calling for pause and reflection. The track’s deliberate pacing gives listeners time to sink into the emotion, making it feel like a plea whispered in a storm. It signaled a new artistic chapter for Styles—one that was unafraid to be grand, honest, and introspective. “Sign of the Times” remains one of his most ambitious pieces, resonating with those navigating their own emotional crossroads.
2. Watermelon Sugar (2019)
“Watermelon Sugar” is a vibrant burst of summer bottled into song. Released in 2019, it quickly became one of Harry Styles’ most recognizable hits—an upbeat, feel-good anthem brimming with warmth and flirtation. The track blends retro pop with modern sensuality, creating a soundscape that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Lyrically, it celebrates physical touch, sweet moments, and the intoxicating pull of romantic connection. The metaphor of “watermelon sugar” adds a playful layer, making the song feel light, juicy, and irresistible. From the first guitar strum to the soaring chorus, the production is rich with summery textures and crisp melodies that feel like sunshine on your skin. Styles delivers the vocals with effortless charm, his laid-back yet magnetic presence making the entire experience feel like an invitation to relax, laugh, and fall in love. Whether played during a road trip or on the beach, “Watermelon Sugar” instantly sets the mood. It’s not just a song—it’s a vibe, a seasonal escape, and a testament to Styles’ knack for crafting songs that are both intimate and universally enjoyable.
3. Adore You (2019)
Released in 2019, “Adore You” is a dreamy, genre-blending track that beautifully showcases Harry Styles’ tender side. The song is a declaration of unconditional affection, wrapped in silky production and heartfelt lyrics. It opens with a gentle beat that gradually swells into a lush, soulful groove, anchored by Styles’ velvety voice. He sings with an aching sincerity that makes the promise of adoration feel both epic and deeply personal. “Just let me adore you,” he pleads—simple words that carry immense emotional weight. The music video, set in the fictional island of Eroda, adds a whimsical layer to the song’s narrative, creating a storybook world that mirrors the magic and strangeness of falling in love. The fusion of soft rock, pop, and soul gives “Adore You” a timeless quality, allowing it to glide smoothly across genres and moods. It’s a song that captures the essence of loving someone so much that it becomes almost otherworldly. With this track, Styles invites us into a romantic dreamscape where love is pure, patient, and gently persistent.
4. Falling (2019)
“Falling” is one of Harry Styles’ most emotionally vulnerable songs, released in 2019 as a raw reflection on personal failure and heartbreak. Unlike his more upbeat tracks, this piano-driven ballad strips everything back to the bare essentials—melody, voice, and honesty. The opening notes immediately create a melancholic mood, setting the stage for a lyrical confession about losing oneself and hurting someone you love. Styles sings, “What am I now? What if I’m someone I don’t want around?”—lines that cut deep and resonate with anyone who’s wrestled with regret. His vocal delivery is intimate and wounded, like someone trying to make peace with their own mistakes. The beauty of “Falling” lies in its simplicity; it doesn’t try to mask the pain with metaphors or heavy production. Instead, it allows silence and space to do the emotional heavy lifting. The song serves as a window into a broken moment, and Styles doesn’t shy away from showing the cracks. It’s this openness that makes “Falling” stand out—an honest ballad about facing your flaws and learning to sit in the sadness.
5. Lights Up (2019)
“Lights Up” arrived in 2019 as a daring, genre-defying track that signaled Harry Styles’ evolution as a solo artist. Sonically, it’s a bold fusion of psychedelic pop, R&B, and atmospheric rock, wrapped in shimmering production and layered harmonies. But beyond the infectious sound lies a deeper message—an exploration of identity, self-discovery, and liberation. The lyric “Do you know who you are?” echoes throughout the song, serving both as a question and a challenge. It’s a track that doesn’t offer easy answers but encourages introspection. The chorus—“Lights up and they know who you are”—feels like a triumphant revelation, a moment of coming into one’s own. Styles’ vocals glide through the song with ease, blending mystery, sensuality, and vulnerability in equal measure. The music video, full of soft lighting and intimate visuals, reinforces the themes of self-acceptance and emotional freedom. “Lights Up” is more than just a catchy track—it’s a personal anthem that invites listeners to shed their masks and step into the light with pride.
6. Kiwi (2017)
“Kiwi” is Harry Styles at his most wild and unapologetic. Released in 2017, this high-octane track blends gritty rock influences with a chaotic, almost reckless energy that makes it stand out from the rest of his debut album. From the opening guitar riff, it’s clear that “Kiwi” is meant to be loud, fun, and a little unhinged. The lyrics are cryptic yet provocative, centering on a mysterious woman and a whirlwind relationship that’s all fire and no brakes. Styles delivers each line with swagger and intensity, embracing a bold, almost punk-like attitude that’s far removed from his boy band past. The chorus—“She’s driving me crazy, but I’m into it”—captures the thrill of surrendering to a love that’s probably bad for you but irresistibly thrilling. The song’s explosive nature made it an instant fan favorite, especially in live performances where Styles leans into the chaos. “Kiwi” doesn’t aim for polish or sentimentality—it thrives on pure adrenaline. It’s the kind of track you turn up when you want to lose yourself in the noise, let go of control, and enjoy the ride, even if it’s heading straight for disaster.
7. Sweet Creature (2017)
“Sweet Creature” is a gentle, acoustic ballad that showcases Harry Styles’ softer, more introspective side. Released in 2017, the song strips things down to just a delicate guitar melody and heartfelt vocals, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. There’s a quiet intimacy to this track, as Styles sings about the complexities of love, distance, and emotional connection. “We don’t know where we’re going, but we know where we belong,” he muses—a line that beautifully captures the tension between uncertainty and commitment. The song feels like a conversation between two people trying to find their way back to each other. Its simplicity is its strength, giving it a timeless, almost folk-like quality that feels both personal and universal. Styles’ vocal performance is tender and sincere, resonating with anyone who has ever fought to keep a meaningful relationship alive. “Sweet Creature” stands out not just for its musical restraint but for its emotional honesty. It reminds us that even when things feel complicated, love—at its core—is about coming home to someone who truly knows you.
8. Treat People With Kindness (2021)
“Treat People With Kindness” is more than a song—it’s a mantra, a movement, and a burst of pure joy. Released in 2021, the track radiates positive energy from the very first note, with a retro-inspired sound that draws on vintage pop and funk influences. The message is simple but powerful: choose kindness. Styles leans into the playful energy of the track with a theatrical flair, complete with backing vocals and handclaps that give it a jubilant, almost gospel-like feel. The chorus, filled with optimism, feels like a group celebration of compassion, unity, and hope. It’s a reminder that small acts of kindness can ripple into something far greater. The accompanying music video, where Styles dances exuberantly in a glittering tuxedo, perfectly captures the spirit of the song—joyful, inclusive, and unashamedly feel-good. In a world that often feels heavy and divided, “Treat People With Kindness” offers a breath of fresh air. It encourages listeners not only to dance and smile but to embody a life philosophy rooted in empathy. This track is a shining example of how music can inspire not just movement, but meaningful change in the way we treat one another.
9. As It Was (2022)
“As It Was” marked the beginning of a new era for Harry Styles with the release of his third album Harry’s House in 2022. The song opens with a chiming synth riff that instantly sets a nostalgic, almost melancholic tone. While it’s upbeat and undeniably catchy, the lyrics dive deep into themes of change, isolation, and personal growth. “You know it’s not the same as it was,” Styles sings repeatedly, delivering a message that’s both reflective and universal. The song captures the strange, in-between space of moving on—mourning the past while stepping cautiously into the future. It’s a masterful balance of sadness and hope, where the danceable rhythm contrasts with the emotional weight of the words. Styles’ vocals are lighter here, almost airy, matching the bittersweet quality of the track. “As It Was” resonated with fans immediately, especially in a post-pandemic world where many were grappling with change and loss. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to dance and cry at the same time—a pop gem that’s introspective yet irresistibly infectious, and a defining moment in Styles’ ever-evolving sound.
10. Late Night Talking (2022)
“Late Night Talking,” released in 2022 as part of Harry’s House, is a smooth, soulful exploration of intimacy and emotional closeness. Built on a steady groove with dreamy synths and rhythmic guitar, the track feels like a warm late-night conversation translated into music. Lyrically, Styles paints the picture of someone who will go to great lengths to stay connected to the one they care about—even if it’s just talking through the night. There’s a sweetness and sincerity to the song that captures the quiet magic of love that thrives in the in-between hours. His vocals are relaxed yet expressive, gliding effortlessly over the playful, layered production. The melody is catchy without being flashy, allowing the emotional core of the song to shine. It’s a sonic comfort blanket—lighthearted, soothing, and romantic in a way that feels genuine. “Late Night Talking” highlights Styles’ growth not just as a vocalist, but as a storyteller who can craft songs that are both relatable and deeply personal. It’s a song for lovers, insomniacs, and anyone who’s ever found comfort in the sound of someone else’s voice when the world is quiet.
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.
