Harry Styles

Harry Styles

Harry Edward Styles, born on February 1, 1994, is a British singer. He began his musical career in 2010 as part of the boy band One Direction, created during the British music competition show, The X Factor. The band, formed after each member's solo elimination, achieved immense success and became one of the top-selling boy bands in history. One Direction went on an indefinite break in 2016.

In 2017, Harry Styles launched his first solo album, which shares his name, under Columbia Records. This album experienced notable success, entering the charts at number one in both the UK and the US. The primary track, "Sign of the Times," also claimed the number one position on the UK Singles Chart. Styles' second album, Fine Line (2019), created history by premiering at the top spot on the US Billboard 200, representing the highest first-week sales for an English male artist.

Harry Styles

In 2020, Rolling Stone acknowledged Fine Line in their "500 Greatest Albums of All Time." The fourth single from the album, "Watermelon Sugar," achieved the number one spot on the US Billboard Hot 100. Harry Styles' third album, Harry's House (2022), received widespread praise and made history, securing him the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 2023. The album's leading single, "As It Was," was named the global number-one song of 2022 by Billboard.

Harry Styles

Styles has received multiple honors, including six Brit Awards, three Grammy Awards, an Ivor Novello Award, and three American Music Awards. Apart from his musical endeavors, Styles has entered the world of acting, starring in movies like Dunkirk (2017), Don't Worry Darling (2022), and My Policeman (2022). Beyond his artistic pursuits, Styles is known for his unique fashion style, notably being the first man to solo grace the cover of Vogue.

Early Life of Harry Edward Styles

Born on February 1, 1994, in Redditch, Worcestershire, England, Harry Edward Styles is the child of Anne Twist (previously Selley), a landlady, and Desmond "Des" Styles, who had a career in finance. During his early years, Styles, along with his parents and older sister Gemma, moved to Holmes Chapel in Cheshire.

At the age of seven, Styles' parents divorced, and his mother later married John Cox,/, but this marriage also ended in divorce. In 2013, Styles' mother wed Robin Twist, who unfortunately passed away from cancer in 2017. This union introduced Styles to an older stepbrother named Mike and a stepsister named Amy.

Despite the challenges in his family life, Styles has conveyed that he had a positive childhood and received steadfast support from his parents. In his early years, he developed a passion for music, starting to sing covers on a karaoke machine gifted by his grandfather. His initial recorded song was a rendition of Elvis Presley's "The Girl of My Best Friend."

Harry Styles

Styles attended Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School, where he served as the lead singer for the band White Eskimo, which achieved success by winning a local Battle of the Bands competition. At the age of 16, he also worked part-time at the W. Mandeville Bakery in Holmes Chapel.

Career of Harry Edward

2010-2015: The X Factor and One Direction

Harry Styles, seen on the left with One Direction during The X Factor Live Tour in 2011, initiated his music career after auditioning for the seventh series of The X Factor on April 11, 2010. At his mother's suggestion, Styles initially tried out as a solo participant, singing Train's "Hey, Soul Sister." However, Simon Cowell recommended a different song, prompting Styles to display his skills with a performance of Stevie Wonder's "Isn't She Lovely." While he made it to boot camp, he didn't progress as a solo artist.

Harry Styles

In a turn of events, Styles and four others of his age group, who were also eliminated as solo contestants, were brought together in July 2010 to form a band within the "Groups" category, mentored by Simon Cowell. This newly formed group included Styles, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik, and they practiced together for a period of two weeks. Styles suggested the name "One Direction," which was unanimously embraced by all the band members.

They swiftly gained popularity in the UK, emerging as Cowell's last remaining act within the initial four weeks of the live shows. One Direction eventually made it to the final of The X Factor, securing a commendable third-place finish.

Harry Styles

January 2011, One Direction Signing

In January 2011, One Direction signed a recording deal with Simon Cowell's Syco Records. Their initial single, "What Makes You Beautiful," and their debut studio album, "Up All Night," were both released later that same year.

Styles played a role in creating three songs on the album, establishing One Direction as the first British group with a debut album to top the charts in the United States. Following albums, including "Take Me Home" (2012), "Midnight Memories" (2013), "Four" (2014), and "Made in the A.M." (2015), all achieved number one status in the UK.

Harry Styles

"Midnight Memories" claimed the title of the best-selling album globally in 2013, and its accompanying tour made history as the highest-grossing by a vocal group ever. One Direction achieved a remarkable milestone with "Four" as the only group to see their first four albums debut at number one on the Billboard 200 chart.

The group's success was marked by hit singles such as "Live While We're Young," "Little Things," "Best Song Ever," "Story of My Life," "Drag Me Down," and "History." Additionally, Styles collaborated on "Just a Little Bit of Your Heart" for Ariana Grande's 2014 album "My Everything."

Not wanting to overextend their fan base, One Direction, following Styles' suggestion, took an indefinite hiatus in 2016 after promoting "Made in the A.M." Since their debut, One Direction has sold 70 million records globally, solidifying their status as one of the best-selling boy bands of all time. The group accumulated numerous awards, including Brit Awards, American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and MTV Video Music Awards.

Harry Styles

Despite positive reflections on his time with One Direction, Styles acknowledged the challenges of hyper-visibility, leading him to avoid social media and navigate media interviews cautiously. He signed a solo contract without "cleanliness clauses," expressing a sense of freedom upon doing so.

2016-2018: Harry Styles and Dunkirk

Transitioning to a solo career, Styles joined Jeffrey Azoff's Full Stop Management and the talent agency CAA, signing a recording deal with Columbia Records in the first half of 2016. During this period, he also launched his record label, Erskine Records. Recording for Styles' debut solo album took place in Los Angeles, London, and Port Antonio, Jamaica, where Styles and collaborators engaged in a two-month writing retreat.

In March 2017, he announced his first solo single, "Sign of the Times," released on April 7. The song achieved number one on the UK Singles Chart and reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100.

Described as a glam rock-influenced soft rock power ballad, it drew comparisons to the work of David Bowie. Rolling Stone ranked "Sign of the Times" as the best song of 2017. Its music video, featuring Styles flying and walking on water, won the Brit Award for British Video of the Year. Styles made his solo debut on Saturday Night Live in the US and The Graham Norton Show in the UK.

Debut Solo Album and Tour:

In May 2017, Harry Styles released his self-titled debut album, which quickly secured the number one spot in various countries, including Australia, the UK, and the US. Influenced by 1970s soft rock, the album was characterized by Variety as a "classic cocktail of psychedelia, Britpop, and balladry."

Garnering favorable reviews from critics, the album earned a place on several publications' lists of the best albums in 2017. The singles "Two Ghosts" and "Kiwi" were also released from the album. A film documenting the album's writing and recording process, titled "Harry Styles: Behind the Album," was exclusively released on Apple Music in May.

Styles embarked on his inaugural headlining concert tour, "Harry Styles: Live on Tour," spanning from September 2017 to July 2018. The tour covered North and South Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australia, during which Styles debuted two unreleased songs, namely 'Anna' and 'Medicine.'

Feature Film Debut in Dunkirk:

In July 2017, Styles made his feature film debut in Christopher Nolan's war film "Dunkirk." In the movie, Styles portrayed a British soldier named Alex during the Dunkirk evacuation in World War II. He shared the screen with a notable ensemble cast, including Fionn Whitehead, Tom Glynn-Carney, Jack Lowden, Kenneth Branagh, Cillian Murphy, Mark Rylance, and Tom Hardy.

Styles secured the role over "thousands of young men," and Nolan later admitted that he cast Styles not fully aware of the extent of his fame but because he fit the part exceptionally well. The film received praise from critics, with The Daily Telegraph film critic Robbie Collin commending Styles for his "bright, convicted, and unexpectedly not-at-all-jarring performance."

List of Movies Done by Harry Styles

These days, it appears that Harry Styles, once a music sensation, has seamlessly transitioned into the world of acting. From his humble beginnings on the television series X Factor to his stint in the famous pop group One Direction, Styles has evolved into a global icon.

Whether gracing the cover of Vogue, captivating audiences worldwide, or headlining the much-loved concerts of Harry's House, Styles seems to be omnipresent. This surge in popularity has led him to explore new horizons, particularly in the realm of acting—a trend increasingly embraced by celebrities looking to diversify their talents. Styles has ventured into several movies, each receiving varying degrees of acclaim.

Recently, Styles has taken center stage in the 2022 film "Don't Worry Darling," playing a pivotal role in the drama unfolding behind the scenes. Additionally, he stars in "My Policeman" and made his acting debut in Christopher Nolan's acclaimed "Dunkirk." Despite mixed opinions on Styles' acting, with four films already in his repertoire and more potentially on the horizon, it seems the world is destined to see more of him on the big screen. Here's a ranking of his movies based on their Rotten Tomatoes scores.

1. Don't Worry Darling — 38% on Rotten Tomatoes

The 2022 film "Don't Worry Darling," currently holding a 38% score on Rotten Tomatoes, has been a major topic of discussion during the summer and fall of 2022. Set vaguely in the 1950s in a company town named Victory, the movie explores traditional gender dynamics, infusing a specific tone that transforms the societal foundations into a thrilling experience.

The film has not been without its fair share of drama, notably the tension between lead actress Florence Pugh and director Olivia Wilde, given Wilde's relationship with Styles. This saga may have overshadowed public and critical opinions, causing the movie to be remembered more for the drama than its actual plot. "Don't Worry Darling" presents a promising concept, occasionally stumbling in execution, yet hindered by a lackluster script and some questionable acting decisions.

2. My Policeman — 40% on Rotten Tomatoes

The romantic drama "My Policeman," adapted from Bethan Roberts' 2022 novel, features Styles in the leading role of Tom. Premiering at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival, the movie had a limited theatrical release before landing on Prime Video in November 2022. "My Policeman" delves into secrets, particularly those surrounding the main character Tom and his relationships.

Set in the 1950s, Tom, a policeman, newly married to a schoolteacher, grapples with his closeted gay identity and a hidden relationship with another man, Patrick. The revelation of their secret could unravel their lives in the societal context of that era. Currently, "My Policeman" holds a 40% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

3. Eternals — 47% on Rotten Tomatoes

In 2021, Marvel's "Eternals" received mixed reviews despite its star-studded cast. Set during 5000 BCE, the Eternals, a group with superpowers, are sent to Earth to eradicate an invasive alien species. Centuries later, having completed their mission, they disperse globally to start anew. In the modern day, they discover an impending apocalyptic event and must intervene to prevent catastrophe. While "Eternals" performed well at the global box office, its Rotten Tomatoes score of 47% suggests a divergence between commercial success and critical acclaim. Styles makes a cameo appearance in the mid-credits scene as Eros, the brother of Thanos.

Harry Styles

4. Dunkirk — 92% on Rotten Tomatoes

Christopher Nolan's 2017 war film, "Dunkirk," marked Styles' film debut and stands as his highest-rated movie on Rotten Tomatoes with a 92% score. Set during World War II, the film depicts the evacuation of Dunkirk, capturing the essence and sounds of war with minimal dialogue. Nolan focuses on the human aspect by placing bodies in the midst of war and violence, forcing decisions that may save or endanger lives."Dunkirk" weaves multiple storylines into the overarching narrative, creating a fluid yet emotionally moving cinematic experience. Styles portrays a young soldier saved in a moment of peril, embarking on the protagonist's journey.

Exploring the Eclectic World of Harry Styles' Musical Odyssey

In 2017, Harry Styles embarked on his solo career with the release of "Sign of the Times," marking the beginning of an extraordinary musical journey. Over the past five years, he has crafted a songbook that stands as a testament to his brilliance as a singer, songwriter, and performer. As we eagerly anticipate the release of "Harry's House," Styles' third album, let's delve into the enchanting realm of his discography, which comprises a total of 41 remarkable songs.

Harry Styles

Styles' repertoire is a treasure trove of musical gems, each song a unique expression of his creativity. Ranking and reviewing all his songs is a challenging task, considering the absence of any duds in his collection. From his debut solo album to the upcoming "Harry's House," every song contributes to the vibrant tapestry of Styles' artistry.

Each fan may have a different favorite, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of Styles' music. The order of the ranking is subjective, as personal preferences play a significant role. The focus here is on celebrating the words and emotions conveyed in each song rather than adhering strictly to numerical positions.

Harry Styles is more than just a pop star; he is an actor, a music history enthusiast, a fashion icon, and a delightful troublemaker who revels in challenging expectations. Amidst these roles, his authenticity shines brightest when he pours his heart and soul into his music.

The list includes songs from all three of his solo albums, offering a comprehensive view of Styles' evolution as an artist. Additionally, we consider songs that have become integral to his live performances, even if not officially released. This may be a bit unconventional, but it ensures that notable tracks like "Medicine" are rightfully acknowledged.

Omitted from the list are any songs from Styles' One Direction days, as they warrant a separate exploration. This journey through his solo discography aims to appreciate the evolution of an artist who continuously pushes boundaries and surprises his audience.

As we pay homage to all 41 songs in Styles' catalog, we recognize the man behind the music. He is not just a pop sensation but a multifaceted artist who weaves stories through his melodies. Cheers to the past musical achievements and the anticipation of what Harry Styles has in store for the future. Step into the light and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Harry Styles' music.

'Just a Little Bit of Your Heart'

Opening this list is "Just a Little Bit of Your Heart," a song originally written by Styles for Ariana Grande's album "My Everything" in 2014. Though not officially released by Styles himself, it became a significant part of his solo tour, bridging the gap between his past and future.

'Girl Crush'

A clever rendition of Little Big Town's country hit, "Girl Crush," showcases Styles' ability to put a unique twist on existing songs. Released as a Spotify Single, it features provocative lyrics with a gender twist, making it a standout addition to his repertoire.

'Woman'

In "Woman," Styles invites listeners into a slow jam with a quirky studio version that features a hook resembling a sexually agitated duck. The song thrives in its festive live versions, showcasing Styles' playful approach to both music and performance.

Stay tuned for the continuation of this exploration into the diverse and captivating world of Harry Styles' best songs.

"Sweet Creature"

A soft and introspective song, "Sweet Creature," reflects on the complexities of merging two hearts. The lyrics touch upon the evolving concept of home, delivered with emotionally charged vocals.

"Daylight"

"Daylight" captures the nuances of a long-distance relationship, blending grinding guitars with sweet vocal harmonies. It explores the contradictions within romance and the impact of daily routines.

"Golden"

As the opening track of Fine Line, "Golden" emanates a 70s AM-radio vibe. Despite its sunny sound, the lyrics convey an undercurrent of loss and a desire not to be alone. The song climaxes with a poignant guitar break.

"Lights Up"

Serving as the Fine Line era introduction, "Lights Up" is a disco-infused pop song celebrating self-discovery. It symbolizes stepping into the light and embracing one's true identity.

"Fine Line"

Concluding the second album, "Fine Line" unfolds over six minutes, transitioning from folky strums to an orchestral arrangement, akin to the introspective power of Fleabag's final scene.

"Cinema"

"Cinema" is a pop-funk song exploring the interplay between carnal pleasures and unfiltered expressions. The chorus encapsulates vulnerability, expressing admiration and questioning reciprocation.

"Medicine"

"Medicine" is hailed as Harry's energetic and glam rock best, a fan-favorite known for its unreleased status, ambiguity, and a climactic declaration of being okay with exploration.

"She"

"She" is a six-minute space-sex trip showcasing Harry and his crew at their most uninhibited. The song features a cosmic guitar voyage, influenced by psychedelics during its creation.

"Falling"

"Falling" is a haunting piano ballad from Fine Line, exploring the aftermath of a broken relationship. The lyrics express self-awareness about the recurrent theme of writing songs about the subject.

"Keep Driving"

An interlude in Harry's House, "Keep Driving" reflects on the thrill of romance through fragmented memories, detailing both blissful moments and silly party happenings.

"Satellite"

"Satellite" begins with an awkward encounter, building into a frenzy of longing with each chorus. The song captures the intensity of waiting for someone and the emotional space between individuals.

"Kiwi"

"Kiwi" is described as a glam-punk explosion driven by adrenaline, sex, pounding guitars, and a bold chorus. Live performances of "Kiwi" are noted for their euphoric impact.

"Cherry"

"Cherry" stands out on Fine Line as a raw confession of grief and jealousy after a broken romance. The song ends with a voice note of Harry's ex-girlfriend, adding a heart-wrenching touch.

"Matilda"

The emotional core of Harry's House, "Matilda," is a tender note to a friend navigating the aftermath of childhood neglect. The lyrics offer comfort and encouragement to embrace self-appreciation.

"As It Was"

The lead single from Harry's House, "As It Was," is a synth-pop bop that combines seduction with vulnerability. The song opens with a voice note from his goddaughter, adding a personal touch.

"Sign of the Times"

Harry's debut solo single, "Sign of the Times," defies expectations with a nearly six-minute love-and-death piano epic. Sung from the perspective of a dying mother, the lyrics impart a powerful message of hope.

Harry Styles has undoubtedly carved an extraordinary path in the realms of both music and acting, establishing himself as a multifaceted artist with a global impact. Born on February 1, 1994, in Redditch, Worcestershire, England, Styles' journey from his early days at Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School to becoming a global icon has been nothing short of remarkable.

Styles' musical odyssey began in 2010 when he auditioned for the seventh series of The X Factor. Although his solo journey on the show was short-lived, fate intervened, and he became a part of the iconic boy band, One Direction. The group, consisting of Styles, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik, swiftly rose to international fame, achieving unparalleled success.

After One Direction's hiatus in 2016, Styles ventured into a solo career, signing with Columbia Records. His debut self-titled album in 2017 marked a triumph, debuting at number one in both the UK and the US. The lead single, "Sign of the Times," showcased Styles' versatility and marked the beginning of a solo journey that would redefine his artistic identity.

The success of his debut album was followed by the historic Fine Line in 2019, breaking records and earning critical acclaim. The album's fourth single, "Watermelon Sugar," became a global sensation, reaching the top of the US Billboard Hot 100. Styles' third album, Harry's House (2022), further solidified his standing as a musical force, earning him the prestigious Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 2023.

Beyond the world of music, Styles gracefully transitioned into acting, making his feature film debut in Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk (2017). His performance was widely praised, and the film itself garnered critical acclaim. Styles continued to explore his acting prowess with roles in films such as Don't Worry Darling (2022) and My Policeman (2022), showcasing his ability to seamlessly navigate between the worlds of music and cinema.

Styles' foray into acting, however, has been met with varying degrees of critical reception, as evidenced by Rotten Tomatoes scores for films like Don't Worry Darling and My Policeman. Despite this, Styles' commitment to diversifying his talents and taking on challenging roles is commendable, and his presence in the film industry is likely to evolve with time.

In the realm of fashion, Styles has become a trailblazer, known for his distinctive and boundary-pushing style. His willingness to challenge traditional gender norms and embrace individuality has made him a prominent figure in the fashion world. Notably, Styles made history by being the first man to appear solo on the cover of Vogue, further solidifying his status as a cultural icon.

As we explored the diverse facets of Styles' career, it is essential to acknowledge the complexities of his personal life. Despite facing challenges such as his parents' divorce and the passing of his stepfather, Robin Twist, Styles has remained resilient and appreciative of the support he received during his formative years.

Conclusion

Harry Styles' journey from a young contestant on The X Factor to a global icon in music, film, and fashion is a testament to his talent, resilience, and ability to continuously reinvent himself. His impact on popular culture extends beyond the charts and screens, making him a symbol of authenticity, creativity, and fearlessness. As Styles continues to navigate the diverse landscape of entertainment, one thing is certain - the world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in the extraordinary odyssey of Harry Styles.