biography about harry styles

Harry Styles

English-born singer Harry Styles rose to fame as one of the five members of the boy band One Direction. He launched his solo career in 2016 and made his acting debut in the 2017 film 'Dunkirk.'

Who Is Harry Styles?

In 2010 Harry Styles auditioned for the UK television show The X Factor , where the judges combined him with four other young male singers to form One Direction. The boy band became a pop music sensation, delivering hits like "Best Song Ever" and "Story of My Life" through five immensely successful studio albums. Styles then made a solo splash in 2017 with his debut single, "Sign of the Times," and a self-titled album. In 2020, he received praise for his second solo album, Fine Line .

Harry Edward Styles was born on February 1, 1994, in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, in the West Midlands region of England. His parents, Des and Anne, divorced when he was 7 years old. He and his sister Gemma were brought up by their mother in the town of Holmes Chapel in Cheshire. His mother was later remarried, to Robin Twist.

Styles attended Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School, where he and three of his friends formed a band called White Eskimo. Styles was White Eskimo's lead singer, and the band was popular enough to win a band competition at their school. After school and on weekends, Styles worked at the W. Mandeville bakery in Holmes Chapel.

'The X Factor'

Performing as One Direction (a name reportedly suggested by Styles), the five boys became one of the most popular contenders in the X Factor finals that season. Although they finished the competition in third place, they were immediately signed to Cowell's Syco music label.

One Direction

Styles, the youngest member of One Direction, became a fan favorite for his curly hair, wide smile and sweet-yet-naughty demeanor. He sang some of the lead vocals on the band's first single, "What Makes You Beautiful," which was released in September 2011 in the United Kingdom. One Direction's debut album, Up All Night , was a best seller in both the United Kingdom and the United States the following year. In another highlight of 2012, Styles and the rest of One Direction performed at the Olympics closing ceremony in London.

Styles went on to enjoy immense success with his bandmates, One Direction following Up All Night with Take Me Home (2012), Midnight Memories (2013) and Four (2014), all debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The group's final album, Made in the A.M. , just missed the cut by arriving at No. 2 in 2015, before the band split for a lengthy hiatus.

Solo Albums: 'Harry Styles,' 'Fine Line'

Styles made a successful solo entry in 2017 with the epic single "Sign of the Times," his accompanying self-titled album debuting in the familiar No. 1 spot. Fans then waited another two years for his next single, which came in October 2019 with the soulful "Lights Up." His sophomore solo album, Fine Line , contained his first No. 1 single, "Watermelon Sugar." That year he was also nominated for three Grammy awards.

After appearing in concert documentaries with One Direction, Styles made his feature film debut in Christopher Nolan 's 2017 war thriller Dunkirk , as an Allied soldier named Alex.

Personal Life

Known as "the flirt" of One Direction, Styles' romantic relationships were followed obsessively by the press and fans as he rose to fame. In 2011 he began dating television presenter Caroline Flack, whom he met when he was competing on The X Factor and she was hosting its companion show, The Xtra Factor . The difference in their ages—Styles was 17 at the time, and Flack was 32—became the subject of discussion.

Styles was then romantically linked to photographer Sarah-Louise Colivet, models Emma Ostilly and Cara Delevingne, and singers Lily Halpern and Rita Ora. His most-publicized relationship of 2012 was a two-month liaison with pop star Taylor Swift , the experience allegedly fueling a couple of Swift's songs. Styles later dated French model Camille Rowe.

The singer opened up about Swift and his romantic life during a March 2020 interview with Howard Stern , calling it "flattering" to be the subject of someone else's songs, and also described his recent encounter with muggers on Valentine's Day.

QUICK FACTS

• Name: Harry
• Birth Year: 1994
• Birth date: February 1, 1994
• Birth City: Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, England
• Birth Country: United Kingdom
• Gender: Male
• Best Known For: English-born singer Harry Styles rose to fame as one of the five members of the boy band One Direction. He launched his solo career in 2016 and made his acting debut in the 2017 film 'Dunkirk.'
• Astrological Sign: Aquarius
• Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School

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Harry Styles

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• Official Site of One Direction
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Harry Styles (born February 1, 1994, Redditch , Worcestershire, England) is a British singer, songwriter, and actor, one of the original members of the boy band One Direction and a highly successful solo artist known for his multiple chart-topping singles and albums. Styles became a member of One Direction in 2010, when the group came together to compete on the British music competition television show The X Factor . He later embarked on a career as a solo artist and actor, with forays into fashion.

Styles was raised in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire , England , by his parents, Anne Twist and Desmond Styles. His parents divorced when he was seven years old; thereafter, he and his elder sister, Gemma, were raised by their mother. Styles made his start in music while a student at Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School, where he was the lead singer of the band White Eskimo. In 2010, encouraged by his mother, Styles auditioned for The X Factor . For the show, he performed a rendition of “ Isn’t She Lovely,” a song originally written by Stevie Wonder . After failing to advance, Styles was recalled and joined with Niall Horan , Zayn Malik , Liam Payne , and Louis Tomlinson to compete as a group on the show. The five-member group subsequently became known as One Direction, named at the suggestion of Styles, and ultimately took third place in the final round of the competition. The group released its debut studio album,  Up All Night , in 2011. Styles cowrote three songs on the album, which climbed quickly to number two on the U.K. Albums Chart and to number one on the Billboard 200. One Direction’s next four albums— Take Me Home  (2012),  Midnight Memories  (2013),  Four  (2014), and  Made in the A.M.  (2015)—were all hugely successful.

In 2016 Styles and the other members of One Direction decided to take a break from recording and touring, enabling Styles to pursue a solo career. That year he signed a contract with Columbia Records and launched Erksine Records, an independent record label. In 2017 he released his debut single, “Sign of the Times,” which topped the U.K. Singles Chart, and his self-titled debut album. His music became known for its combined elements of classic rock , soft rock, and pop, reflecting the many artists by which he was influenced, including the Rolling Stones , the Beatles ,  Pink Floyd , Fleetwood Mac ,  Harry Nilsson , and Shania Twain . His second solo album, Fine Line , was released in 2019, and it broke U.S. sales records for a British male singer. In addition, the song “ Watermelon Sugar” won the Grammy Award for best pop solo performance and the BRIT Award for British single of the year. His follow-up, Harry’s House (2022), was also a critical and commercial hit. It won three Grammys, including album of the year and best pop vocal album.

In 2017 Styles made his debut as an actor, taking on the role of a British soldier during World War II in the film Dunkirk ; his performance received positive reviews. He then accepted a leading role in Don’t Worry Darling (2022), a psychological thriller directed by Olivia Wilde . Also in 2022 he starred in the romantic drama My Policeman , a film set in 1950s Brighton, England, in which Styles played a gay policeman.

From early in his career, Styles was known for his philanthropy. He frequently donated proceeds from his concerts and tours to charities and took moments onstage to bring awareness to equal rights , gender equality , and other causes. He also promoted the slogan “Treat People with Kindness,” after which he wrote a song of the same name that appeared on Fine Line .

Harry Styles Biography

Birthday: February 1 , 1994 ( Aquarius )

Born In: Redditch, Worcestershire, England

Harry Edward Styles is an English singer and songwriter, best known as a member of the famous pop rock band ‘One Direction.’ Blessed with a penchant for music, Styles immersed himself in the field of music at a young age. He made his debut when he auditioned for a spot in the show ‘The X Factor.’ Styles’ natural flair and understanding of music made him a favorite among the judges. Though he could not make it to the ‘judge’s houses’ round, he was roped in as a member of the pop rock band ‘One Direction.’ Despite being the youngest member of the boy band, Styles soon became a favorite among the fans because of his skills, appearance, and demeanor. During its five outings ‘One Direction’ broke several records, becoming the only boy band to have its first four albums debut at number one in the United States. Also, it became the first boy band in US chart history to land two number-one albums in a calendar year. Following his self- imposed hiatus Styles pursued his solo career, signing a record deal with ‘Columbia Records.’ Additionally, Styles has also appeared in television and film, including the ‘Nickelodeon’ series ‘iCarly,’ documentary concert film ‘One Direction: This Is Us,’ and the feature film ‘Dunkirk.’

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British Celebrities Born In February

Also Known As: Harry Edward Styles

Age: 30 Years , 30 Year Old Males

father: Desmond Styles

mother: Anne Cox

siblings: Gemma Styles

Born Country: England

Pop Singers British Men

Height: 6'0" (183 cm ), 6'0" Males

You wanted to know

What are harry styles' top hit songs.

Some of Harry Styles' top hit songs include "Sign of the Times," "Watermelon Sugar," and "Adore You."

What is the meaning behind Harry Styles' song "Watermelon Sugar?"

Harry Styles has suggested that "Watermelon Sugar" is about the euphoria and nostalgia of summer love and good times.

How did Harry Styles start his music career?

Harry Styles began his music career by auditioning for the reality TV show "The X Factor" in the UK, where he was placed in the boy band One Direction.

What are Harry Styles' fashion influences?

Harry Styles has cited icons like David Bowie and Mick Jagger as fashion influences, often blending classic and eclectic styles.

How does Harry Styles stay grounded despite fame?

Harry Styles has mentioned mindfulness practices and staying connected with friends and family as ways to stay grounded amidst his fame.

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Harry Edward Styles was born on February 1, 1994, in Redditch, Worcestershire, to Anne Cox and Desmond ‘Des’ Styles. He has an elder sister named Gemma. His parents got separated when he was 7.

Ever since he was a child, Styles was fascinated by music. He enjoyed singing and even performed as the lead singer for his school band, ‘White Eskimo,’ which won several competitions. Freddie Mercury, Elvis Presley, and ‘The Beatles’ were Styles’ earliest influences. He even worked part-time at the ‘W. Mandeville Bakery’ in Holmes Chapel to support himself.

Harry Styles began his music career in 2010, when he auditioned as a solo candidate for the seventh series of the British televised singing competition ‘The X Factor.’ Though he could not make it to the finals, he was selected along with four other fellow competitors to form a new group act for the remainder of the competition.

‘One Direction’ ended the year 2013, with the release of its third studio album ‘Midnight Memories’ in November. Though it opened to mixed reviews by the critics, the album nevertheless fared well, and became the best-selling album of 2013, selling more than four million copies.

A year after its third studio album, ‘One Direction’ came up with its fourth album ‘Four’ in November 2014. The album debuted at number one in 18 countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States. Its lead singles, ‘Steal my Girl’ and ‘Night Changes’ achieved platinum status in the US and gave the band its tenth and eleventh UK top-ten hits.

In March 2015, Zayn Malik , a member of ‘One Direction,’ left the group. Nevertheless, the band continued working on its fifth album, which was also the band’s final album before its self-imposed hiatus. The album ‘Made in the A.M.’ released in November 2015 to favorable reviews from critics. It debuted at number one on the ‘UK Albums Chart’ and at number two on the ‘US Billboard 200.’ Its singles, ‘Drag me Down,’ ‘History,’ and ‘Perfect’ reached the top 10 spots in a number of national charts.

Harry Styles has a Casanova image and is known for his various romantic link-ups. In 2011, he dated television presenter Caroline Flack. Their relationship hit the headlines globally due to the age difference between the two, Styles being just 17 and Flack 32 at the time. Their relationship ended in 2012.

In December 2012, Styles started dating international pop star Taylor Swift. The two broke up in January 2013. He later dated Kendall Jenner and Nadine Leopold. He began dating Olivia Wilde in late 2020, but they broke-up in 2022.

Harry Styles is known for his love of knitting and has been spotted working on projects while on tour.

He once worked as a baker before finding success with One Direction.

Harry is an avid collector of vintage boots and has a vast collection that he enjoys wearing.

He is a strong supporter of various charitable causes and has used his platform to raise awareness and funds for important issues.

Harry has a passion for classic cars and enjoys restoring and driving them in his spare time.

See the events in life of Harry Styles in Chronological Order

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22 August 2022 12:50 PM

Harry Styles: the world’s most wanted man

Harry styles has become a global pop icon. now, he has his sights set on hollywood. how does he make all of it look so easy — even when it definitely isn’t.

By Brittany Spanos

On a Friday night in New York, Harry Styles put on a show.

It wasn’t just any show; it was the first time he performed his third and soon-to-be-biggest album, Harry’s House , in its entirety. The crowd that May night covered Long Island’s UBS Arena in feathers and glitter and tears — a ritualistic skin shedding of sorts whenever Styles comes to town.

Fans noticed something different about the encore: Styles didn’t end with his usual closer, ‘Kiwi’; instead, he opted to finish the night with a second performance of his new single ‘As It Was’, his dance-through-the-tears pandemic reflection on isolation and change. When he played it, the crowd exploded in a way even Styles had never experienced. It left him a bit shaken.

“We came offstage, and I went into my dressing room and just wanted to sit by myself for a minute,” he tells me, two months later. “After One Direction, I didn’t expect to ever experience anything new. I kind of felt like, ‘All right, I’ve seen how crazy it can get.’ And I think there was something about it where I was… not terrified, but I just needed a minute. Because I wasn’t sure what it was. Just that the energy felt insane.”

At 28, Styles has unlocked a new level of stardom for himself. Years ago, he regularly filled stadiums as a member of One Direction, his former boy band. This spring and summer, he’s playing them on his own. ‘As It Was’ has become his hugest song yet, setting streaming records and topping the charts in more than two dozen countries, including 10 weeks straight in the US. Because he’s a star with a largely young, female fan base, many have refused to engage with him as much more than a pretty teen idol. (I don’t need to lay out decades of music history to show how wrong of a take that is.) But he can feel the tides change in curious ways. “‘As It Was’ is definitely the highest volume of men that I would get stopping me to say something about it,” he notes. “That feels like a weird comment because it’s not like men was the goal. It’s just something I noticed.”

Before his headlining set at Coachella in April, I caught Harry backstage, surrounded by James Corden, Styles’s onstage guest Shania Twain, and his girlfriend, Olivia Wilde. Later, I took in sold-out shows in New York and at Wembley Stadium. The immense love showering Styles was impossible to ignore — you see it in the faces of every fan, whether they’ve been supporting him for “one year, two years, five years, 12 years”, as he says in nearly every end-of-show thank you speech. Along the way I heard him everywhere, even when I wasn’t trying. ‘As It Was’ played in every cab. ‘Watermelon Sugar’ soundtracked breakfast. ‘Golden’ lurked quietly at a London chemist’s. ‘Late Night Talking’ blasted at a Brooklyn bar, leading one man to proclaim, “I like Harry Styles. I can admit it,” like it was a radical act of self-acceptance.

And while he may be everywhere in 2022, Styles is, at the moment, literally right in front of me, sitting in an armchair of a hotel business suite in Hamburg, Germany, on a sweaty June afternoon. After a dip in the Irish Sea this morning, he flew into town and is now enjoying a day off in the middle of his first European tour since 2018.

In person, Styles looks more like your best friend’s cute, sporty older brother than the gender-bending style icon he’s become. He’s left the boas and sequin jumpsuits in the dressing room, opting instead for a blue Adidas track jacket, gym shorts, and Gucci trainers. His hair, often described as “tousled”, like he’s a renegade prince in a romance novel, is clipped back with a hair claw, a signature day-off accessory. 

Styles is a kind of millennial anomaly: he plugs his phone in across the room, never once sneaking a glance for a rogue notification. He maintains eye contact as his thoughts unfurl in his often slow drawl. He’s a bit more Zen, even stoic, than he once was; that goofy, class-clown energy he exuded when the world first fell in love with him in One Direction 12 years ago has naturally diminished. But he’s still as affable and charming as ever, remembering details from small talk we had in all the other cities where I had been (professionally) stalking him, and proving earnestly curious about how I was going to spend my time in Hamburg and how magazine deadlines work. (Back in New York, after surprising fans at a Spotify event for his new album, he asked me my thoughts on David Crosby’s most recent album, which he loved.)

“‘As It Was’ is definitely the highest volume of men that I would get stopping me to say something about it” — Harry Styles

“My great uncle lives here,” Styles says of Hamburg. “He married a German lady, so I have a German cousin. They always used to come and visit when I was a kid, and the only word in English [the cousin] knew was ‘lemonade’. I didn’t know if she actually wanted lemonade or was trying to say ‘Give me some water, please!’” 

Of course it wasn’t meant to take him this long to get back to places like Hamburg, where he’ll play for more than 50,000 fans tomorrow night at Volksparkstadion, a local football stadium. Love on Tour, the name for his current trek, was supposed to launch in the spring of 2020, a few months after Styles released his second album, Fine Line. We all know what happened next. 

Styles didn’t get to play live again until last autumn, but something funny happened in the interim. While we were bound to our homes, Styles experienced his first number one hit in Fine Line ’s ‘Watermelon Sugar’, a tune so sweet it may take a moment to realise he’s singing about cunnilingus. Less than a year later, he won his first Grammy for it. 

As the pandemic deepened, Styles ended up back in Los Angeles, where he keeps a home, and moved in with three friends. They’d “go for walks, cook dinner, wash the lettuce, all that kind of stuff,” he says, until he decided to use his downtime productively and began writing new material. Rick Rubin’s Malibu studio, Shangri-La, was available, so Styles moved in with longtime producers and co-writers Kid Harpoon and Tyler Johnson. “We didn’t really know what we were going in for,” he says. “It just felt like sitting at home doing nothing might feel better if we all move in together and try to make some music.” Before they knew it, they were making Harry’s House , a revelatory statement that happens to be his most radio-friendly album to date. He took inspiration from Haruomi Hosono’s 1973 LP, Hosono House, which he first heard when he lived in Japan years ago, and treated the songs like they were an internal monologue, traversing a day in his life.

When flying became an option, Styles came home to London. Later, he drove down to Italy in his late stepdad’s car with a friend, listening to the jazz CDs left behind. He visited the Trevi Fountain one day, likely wearing his short-lived pandemic moustache, and was greeted with just four other people instead of the usual throngs that surround the historic site: “I felt like every day you’d say, ‘Weird time, isn’t it?’ Then go, ‘Yeah, it’s fucking insane!’”

He credits his stream of roommates — friends, collaborators — with keeping him together during this time. “I really would’ve struggled if I’d done the whole thing by myself,” he says, mirroring the “ Harry, you’re no good alone ” lyric from ‘As It Was’. After Italy, Styles visited friends in France, then returned to work, eventually posting up at Real World Studios near Bath. By the time he set off across the US to finally tour behind Fine Line last autumn, Harry’s House was secretly finished.

Now, besides the unavoidable singles and the victory-lap world tour, there are other indicators of next-level stardom: his skincare, nail polish and clothing line called Pleasing and a fashion collection with Gucci, not to mention his flourishing movie career. He’s starring in the psychological thriller Don’t Worry Darling and in the intimate drama My Policeman, and he’s nabbed a deal with Marvel Studios to play Eros in at least one of the Eternals films. “Everything in my life has felt like a bonus since X-Factor ,” he says, referring to the singing competition that led directly to One Direction. “Get on TV and sing. I never expected and never thought that would happen.”

But today, in a Hamburg hotel, Styles is still trying to make sense of it all. He thinks hard about love, shame, honesty and the importance of kindness and therapy. And he worries. He worries about how he can be one of the biggest pop stars in the world, the kind who can be everything for his fans while also being a great son, brother, friend and partner to the people standing beside him. As everything gets bigger, Styles imagines a life that is smaller. How does the world’s most wanted man save the best parts for himself?

When Styles played two sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium in June, the first thing he did after stepping offstage each night was take a shower. The post-show shower has become a ritual: a hygienic necessity, sure, but also a crucial moment of clarity and reflection. He washes away the screams full of love and desire to just be in his presence. Anyone would be overwhelmed by that. “It’s really unnatural to stand in front of that many people and have that experience,” he says. “Washing it off, you’re just a naked person, in your most vulnerable, human form. Just like a naked baby, basically.”

Those post-Wembley showers were especially gratifying. When One Direction, which Styles casually refers to as “the band”, played the stadium in 2014, he ended up with tonsillitis on the day of the show. “I was miserable,” he recalls. “We played the first one, and I remember I came off, got in the car, and just started crying because I was so disappointed.”

Styles’s solo shows at Wembley were a reunion of sorts: he had friends and family from all parts of his life and career in the audience on both nights. His mum, Anne Twist, sister Gemma, friends and his team all danced in the stands next to Wilde and her two young children. Even former bandmate Niall Horan swung by, smiling through ‘What Makes You Beautiful’.

As he’s become one of the world’s biggest pop stars, Styles’s need for privacy — for keeping that “naked baby” self out of the public eye — seems to have grown. Secrecy has helped to fend off constant questions about his sex life, the kind that were tossed his way as soon as he was of legal age.

“Everything in my life has felt like a bonus since X-Factor. Get on TV and sing. I never expected and never thought that would happen” — Harry Styles

In the past couple of years, he started to go to therapy more routinely. “I committed to doing it once a week,” he explains. “I felt like I exercise every day and take care of my body, so why wouldn’t I do that with my mind?”

Through it, he started to process parts of himself he hadn’t figured out before. “So many of your emotions are so foreign before you start analysing them properly. I like to really lean into [an emotion] and look at it in the face. Not like, ‘I don’t want to feel like this,’ but more like, ‘What is it that makes me feel this way?’”

One feeling he needed to shed was shame, the kind of shame that comes from having your sex life scrutinised while you’re still just trying to make sense of it. Over the years, he learned to stop apologising for it. He learned he could be vulnerable in private while still protecting it from the public.

Sometimes, though, he worried he was a “hypocrite” for being so closed off. His shows have become empowering safe spaces for his fans, so many of whom want to share who they are with him. Onstage, he’s helped people come out to their parents and facilitated everything from marriage proposals to gender reveals. Separating his personal life from his public one hasn’t been a choice he takes lightly. “When I’m working, I work really hard, and I think I’m really professional,” he says. “Then when I’m not, I’m not. I’d like to think I’m open, and probably quite stubborn, too, and willing to be vulnerable. I can be selfish sometimes, but I’d like to think that I’m a caring person.”

He’s found a vague balance through compartmentalisation. “I’ve never talked about my life away from work publicly and found that it’s benefited me positively,” he explains, perhaps preemptively. “There’s always going to be a version of a narrative, and I think I just decided I wasn’t going to spend the time trying to correct it or redirect it in some way.”

Drawing the curtain over his life has only made everyone who’s not behind it more curious. His sexuality, for example, has been a topic of near obsession for years. He has embraced gender fluidity in his fashion, like Mick Jagger and David Bowie before him, and has repeatedly pointed out how backward it feels to require labels and boxes for everyone’s identity. Critics of his approach have accused him of “queerbaiting” or profiting off queer aesthetics without explicitly claiming the community. Defenders feel it’s unfair to force anyone to label themselves as one thing in order to validate their gender or creative expression.

Styles, without prompting, points out how silly he finds some of the arguments about how he may identify to be: “Sometimes people say, ‘You’ve only publicly been with women,’ and I don’t think I’ve publicly been with anyone. If someone takes a picture of you with someone, it doesn’t mean you’re choosing to have a public relationship or something.” 

Of late, this can be contested. While he is everywhere, so is Olivia Wilde. The pair met on the set of Don’t Worry Darling , which she directed (more on that in a moment), then made a splash when paparazzi snapped them holding hands at his manager and close friend Jeffrey Azoff’s wedding in January 2021.

Wilde and Styles have said little about the relationship, and rumours have filled the space. Anonymous tweeters acted appalled at their age difference (as if a 28-year-old man dating a 38-year-old woman isn’t completely normal) and criticised the director-actor dating dynamic (as if there isn’t a long history of beloved Hollywood couples meeting the same way).

More intense and jarring was a corner of Styles’s fandom that has made fun of Wilde’s dancing or made lengthy Twitter threads and TikTok videos cancelling her for bad or insensitive jokes made a decade ago. If Styles is already held up to a high standard, his potential partners are held to an unreachable one for some of his fans. 

Styles is not the most online person — he uses Instagram to look at plants and architecture posts, has never had the TikTok app, and calls Twitter “a shitstorm of people trying to be awful to people” — but he’s still aware of how those small, toxic corners of the internet are treating the people closest to him. “That obviously doesn’t make me feel good,” he says, carefully. It’s a tightrope he’s treading in discussing this. He wants to — and does! — see the good in his fans, but there’s no denying that like every large online community, this one has a faction that runs on hate and anonymity. 

Even with the boundaries he’s set between his public and private lives, sometimes “other people blur the lines for you”, he says. There’s a conversation he has to have early in a relationship, no matter how weird or premature it may feel. “Can you imagine,” he says, “going on a second date with someone and being like, ‘OK, there’s this corner of the thing, and they’re going to say this, and it’s going to be really crazy, and they’re going to be really mean, and it’s not real…. But anyway, what do you want to eat?’”

“Everyone, including myself, has your own journey with figuring out sexuality and getting more comfortable with it” — Harry Styles

While Styles takes comfort in knowing his whole fandom is not like that, he still wonders about how to respond when the noise gets too loud. “It’s obviously a difficult feeling to feel like being close to me means you’re at the ransom of a corner of Twitter or something,” he says. “I just wanted to sing. I didn’t want to get into it if I was going to hurt people like that.”

When asked about her experience with his fans, Wilde is diplomatic. Like Styles, she believes in what they stand for as a collective, calling them “deeply loving people” who have fostered an accepting community. “What I don’t understand about the cruelty you’re referencing is that that kind of toxic negativity is the antithesis of Harry, and everything he puts out there,” she tells me. “I don’t personally believe the hateful energy defines his fan base at all. The majority of them are true champions of kindness.”

Styles became a leading man when he was four years old, starring in a play called Barney the Church Man. Later, he transformed into Buzz Lightyear in a production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang “because Buzz Lightyear was in the toy shop for some reason”. His other early theatre credits include: Razamatazz in Bugsy Malone (“the band leader”) and the Elvis-inspired Pharaoh in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. (He would later audition for Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis, but was deemed too iconic by the director.)

Other than that, acting wasn’t really part of his life plan. He liked it, but he found a new rush when he started performing with his band White Eskimo. When they debuted at — and won — a Battle of the Bands competition, it was the first time he felt “the switch”: his teachers looking up at him, instead of vice versa. “I think I was just a show-off,” he says, with a hint of cheekiness. “I say that like it’s past tense.”

But as Styles was preparing the release of his solo debut in 2017, he took his first foray back into acting, with a supporting role in Christopher Nolan’s war epic, Dunkirk. (The director said he had no idea how famous Styles was when he cast him.) By the time Marvel recruited him to become Eros, director Chloé Zhao had no one else but Styles in mind for the role. Thanos’s more heroic brother is portrayed in the comics as an intergalactic playboy of sorts, with superhuman strength and the ability to control people’s emotions (a fitting role for the planet’s hottest pop star). MCU boss Kevin Feige recently teased more from Styles, though so far, his only appearance has been the Eternals’ post-credits scene, alongside the Patton Oswalt-voiced Pip. “It’d be funny if that was it, wouldn’t it?” he jokes of his cameo.

Styles’s role in Dunkirk grabbed Wilde’s attention as she was beginning to map out Don’t Worry Darling. He was an early contender for the role of Jack, a charming but secretive husband to Florence Pugh’s increasingly troubled Alice. And Styles had plenty of reasons to be interested in Don’t Worry Darling. Wilde’s second feature film as a director reportedly started a bidding war among 18 studios, following the success of her directorial debut, Booksmart.

Pre-pandemic talks between Styles and the Darling team didn’t make it far; he was, after all, due on a global tour for most of 2020. Instead, Shia LaBeouf won the role, but by the end of that summer, Wilde had reportedly booted the actor for poor on-set behaviour. 

“I’d wanted to act again,” Styles says. He spent a lot of the pandemic watching movies with his quarantine set of friends and collaborators: he rescreened favourites like the 2012 Belgian drama The Broken Circle Breakdown. Some nights, he and his friends would put a bunch of titles in a hat and choose. (“There was a couple different tastes in the house, so it was between, like, Parasite and Coyote Ugly. ”)

Styles was announced as LaBeouf’s replacement a month before filming began. He proved perfect for the role of Jack, who’s brought Alice to the remote, fictional American town of Victory to work on a secret project the men at the company won’t tell their wives about. Jack’s become a star employee and is desperate for his boss’s approval. “We were looking for someone with innate warmth and palpable charm,” Wilde says. “The entire story depended on the audience believing in Jack.”

Styles shot Don’t Worry Darling between September 2020 and February 2021 in LA and Palm Springs. Those months were the longest Styles had lived in one place in 11 years. He thought about going completely off the grid while making it: maybe get a flip phone, stop making music. “The reality is you get there on the first day and wait around for 75 per cent of it,” he says. “And it’s like, ‘Actually, I’m going to text my mate.’”

At the start, he was understandably anxious about taking on such a large role alongside stars like Pugh, Chris Pine, Gemma Chan and Nick Kroll. “In music, there’s such an immediate response to what you do. You finish a song and people clap,” he says. “When you’re filming and they say ‘Cut,’ there’s maybe part of you that expects everyone to start clapping, [but] they don’t. Everyone, obviously, goes back to doing their jobs, and you’re like, ‘Oh, shit, was it that bad?’” (Being an actor reminded him of session musicians: “You get called in to do your bit, and then someone else puts it all together and makes it.”)

The risk may pay off: he and Pugh are already getting awards season buzz. Wilde says one moment “left us all in tears” — Jack’s promotion scene during a big company gala. “It’s a strange scene, full of fascist references, and a disturbing amount of male rage,” Wilde says. “The scene called for him to stand onstage with Frank (Chris Pine) and chant their creepy slogan, ‘Whose world is it? Ours!’ over and over again. Dark as hell. But Harry took it to another level. He was so fully in the moment, he began screaming the lines to the crowd, in this primal roar, that was way more intense than anything we expected from the scene.”

According to Wilde, Pine backed away, understanding this was Harry’s moment. “The camera operator followed him as he paced around the stage like a kind of wild animal,” Wilde remembers. “We were all gobsmacked at the monitor. I think even Harry was surprised by it. Those are the best moments for an actor — when you’re completely outside your body.”

Within weeks, Styles went from the set of Darling to shooting the more intimate My Policeman. He had read the script the year prior, moved by the story enough to have contacted director Michael Grandage and request a meeting. Styles showed up with every line memorised.

Styles plays Tom, a policeman who develops feelings for a museum curator named Patrick (David Dawson). Set in the 50s, when it was still illegal to be in a same-sex relationship in the UK, the pair move in secret while Tom pursues a marriage with a schoolteacher named Marion (Emma Corrin). The film shifts between the past and the present, when the three reunite under dire circumstances. “It’s obviously pretty unfathomable now to think, ‘Oh, you couldn’t be gay. That was illegal,’” Styles says. “I think everyone, including myself, has your own journey with figuring out sexuality and getting more comfortable with it.” To him, My Policeman is a very human story. “It’s not like, ‘This is a gay story about these guys being gay.’ It’s about love and about wasted time to me.”

According to Styles, Grandage wanted to highlight what sex is really like between two men in the scenes between Tom and Patrick. “So much of gay sex in film is two guys going at it, and it kind of removes the tenderness from it,” Styles continues. “There will be, I would imagine, some people who watch it who were very much alive during this time when it was illegal to be gay, and [Michael] wanted to show that it’s tender and loving and sensitive.”

Darling and Policeman make their big premieres at prestigious film festivals in Venice and Toronto late this summer, but Styles isn’t sure his pivot to the silver screen will be permanent. “I don’t imagine I’d do a movie for a while,” he says. There are rumours about how many Marvel movies he’s signed on for and other franchises he might be secretly in talks to do. (In response to a rumour he’ll be starring in a future Star Wars series, he says, “That’s the first I’ve heard of that. I’d imagine… false.”) 

He doesn’t rule out taking on new roles. “I think there’ll be a time again when I’ll crave it,” he says. “But when you’re making music, something’s happening. It feels really creative, and it feeds stuff. A large part of acting is the doing nothing, waiting thing. Which if that’s the worst part, then it’s a pretty good job. But I don’t find that section of it to be that fulfilling. I like doing it in the moment, but I don’t think I’ll do it a lot.”

Like a true tousled-haired prince, Styles invites me to attend a concert with him by the philharmonic in Hamburg, eight hours before his own show.

On past tours, he says, “I was getting to a lot of cities and feeling like ‘I’ve been here six times and I’ve never seen any of it.’” This tour, he’s been taking in a lot of architecture. “It’s something I can do on my own, just sit somewhere and look at stuff,” he says.

Studying the finer points of buildings fits the regimented, disciplined and distinctly grown-up tour life he’s created. Styles has found himself enamoured with routine on the road: 10 hours of sleep a night, IV injections pumping him with nutrients and vitamins, a strict acid-reflux-conscious diet that cuts out coffee, alcohol and certain foods that affect the throat 50,000 fans are depending on. Last night, he slept with two humidifiers that apparently made it look like he was stepping out of a steam room when he opened his hotel room door.

The Elbphilharmonie Hamburg — “Elphi” for short — is a striking structure, looking something like a gorgeous sail. Styles is wearing the same outfit as when I met him in the hotel the day before, only with shorts swapped out for pinstripe pants and a surgical mask covering his face. He and I are both late and can’t be let into the show until intermission, so instead we comb through the backstage hallways and elevators to see rooms built for incredible acoustics and sweeping views of Hamburg. He marvels at all of it. In a temperature controlled room full of pianos, he asks our tour guide which is the best (“Is there a shining star?”) before sitting down at one and playing for a couple of dreamy, Beatlesque minutes. (He’d mentioned earlier that he spent last summer playing piano every day with his morning coffee.) He has questions about panelling. And like a true tourist, he takes pictures of everything.

The first time I ever met Styles was a lot like this. On his first headlining tour, in San Francisco in 2017, I went backstage to interview Kid Harpoon. Styles stumbled into the room where I was waiting, strolling around less like a headliner with fans lined up around the block and more like the lighting guy. Here was someone who is inexplicably difficult to casually enjoy (you watch one video of One Direction’s funniest interview moments on YouTube and suddenly you’re contemplating how many of their cardboard cutouts you can fit in your dorm) acting so casually. He greeted me then like an old friend, not someone who was still refusing to let go of a One Direction keychain at the time. He asked me how I had been, what I was up to in San Francisco, and if I was excited for the show. Of course I remember every second of it. 

Styles has a gift for making those in his presence feel seen. Just ask fans who bump into him on walks through Central Park or Hampstead Heath, then detail those moments as if they had met the pope (granted, the pope could never pull off a hair claw). 

Before the second half of the concert at the Elphi, the crowd mingles and grabs drinks. As we walk through, Styles goes unnoticed. (The mask helps.) It’s funny to watch one of the world’s biggest pop stars move through space with such ease, as if he’s blissfully unaware of how well-known he is.

“If you make your life about the fact that you can’t go anywhere and everything has to be a big deal, then that’s what your life becomes,” he says. “Now, in London, I walk everywhere. It’s hard to stumble across things and restaurants and places and stuff if you’re just driving everywhere, and it’s just not that fun.”

Styles outlines his upcoming months for me: in August, after he wraps his European tour in Lisbon, he’ll go on holiday with some friends, maybe catch up on the Love Island season he was “gutted” to miss, or see if The Bear is as good as everyone tells him it is. The next leg of his tour includes stops in LA, New York, Austin and Chicago as extended residencies, a decision that meets his personal need for a less strenuous touring schedule and a professional need to be able to attend film festivals and rent studios to write and record music for his fourth album. “I’m always writing,” he says. He and his collaborators are already throwing around ideas. “I think all of us are so excited to get back to it, which feels insane because we’ve just put an album out.” 

“What I value the most from my friends is I’m reminded that it’s OK to be flawed. I’m pretty messy and make mistakes sometimes”  — Harry Styles

More than ever, he is thinking about the future. He wants to take meaningful time off at some point — from touring at least, he’s always writing — and ensure he’s a more present figure for his family and friends. In turn, he’s learned to define what real love looks like to him. “The fantasy, or the vision, or the version of you that people can build you up to be feels like a person that isn’t flawed,” he explains. “What I value the most from my friends is I feel like I’m constantly reminded that it’s OK to be flawed. I think I’m pretty messy and make mistakes sometimes. I think that’s the most loving thing: you can see someone’s imperfections, and it’s not [that you] love them in spite of that, but it’s [that you] love them with that.”

He’s thinking about what it would be like if he had children one day: “Well, if I have kids at some point, I will encourage them to be themselves and be vulnerable and share.” 

He’s thinking about what he wants to say, too. Styles admits he was uninterested in politics as a teenager, oblivious to things that didn’t personally affect him. But as he grew more famous, he worried about that, too. “I took a massive look at myself,” he says, “and was like, ‘Oh, I don’t do enough… or anything.” When conversations around anti-Blackness and inaction reached a fever pitch in 2020, Styles marched in the streets and read books like How to Be an Antiracist, by Ibram X. Kendi, and The Will to Change, by bell hooks. He started thinking about racial and gender equity, especially as someone who employs many people on the road. “Pretending as a white person you don’t get a head start just isn’t true,” he says.

We were hanging out right after Roe v. Wade had been overturned in America. “I can’t begin to imagine how terrifying it is to be a woman in America at the moment,” he says. He’ll grab a fan’s sign that reads “My Body, My Choice” at the Hamburg show, displaying it proudly onstage. There’s an energy in the crowds that fills him with careful optimism. “I feel lucky to see a group of people, even just on this tour, who come together in a way,” he says. “I think that group of people is so much less afraid of opening the wound, talking about it, and doing the work, than the generation before us.”

As we wait for the philharmonic’s packed show to restart, I notice a few young girls with their families in the audience and ask Styles what he thinks the crossover between this crowd and his show tonight will be. He looks around at the mostly older faces and goes, “Less than one per cent… I know I’ll be at both.”

Styles watches the orchestra studiously. When the conductor leaves and then returns to a standing ovation, Styles whispers, “He’s about to play his big hit.” Even when he’s not peacocking in front of 50,000, he’s still trying to entertain the one person he’s with.

We walk out before the crowd fully disperses. Styles lingers a second to take some photos of the room before he heads out to get ready for his concert, where he’ll bounce around the stage, lifted by the wails of young fans who have been waiting years for this moment.

His fans will linger tonight, too, crowding in the hundreds outside Volksparkstadion. They’ll take photos of their outfits, their tear- and sweat-stained glittery faces, the piles of abandoned boa feathers. They’ll play his big hits back to him, holding a phone light vigil as they sing One Direction’s ‘Night Changes’ or the Fine Line ballad ‘Falling’. As the city echoes as much of him as it can take, he’ll probably be washing it all away.

Taken from the October/November 2022 issue of Rolling Stone UK.  Buy it online now.  Available on UK newsstands from 24 August.

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• Harry Styles

About Harry Styles

Harry Edward Styles (born February 1st, 1994) is a widely-recognized English singer, songwriter and up-and-coming actor. He rose to fame during his time with One Direction —a platinum-selling, world-renowned boy band. Since the band went on an indefinite hiatus in 2015, Styles has produced three chart-topping studio albums and launched his acting career. He is credited with writing music for Ariana Grande , the 2018 rom-com Love, Simon , Meghan Trainor , One Direction, himself and more.

Styles was born and raised in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, with his sister, supported by their loving mother and step-father. Growing up, Styles always had a passion for singing; he would record covers on his karaoke machine as a kid and went on to be the lead singer of Manchester band White Eskimo . In 2010, 16-year-old Styles auditioned as a solo artist on The X Factor before judge Simon Cowell grouped him with four other boys to form English-Irish pop boy band, One Direction.

In April 2017, two years after One Direction announced their hiatus, Styles dropped his debut solo single “Sign Of The Times” which was greeted with enormous praise as the song landed the number one spot on the charts in over twenty countries. Influenced by rock bands such as Pink Floyd , Fleetwood Mac and The Rolling Stones , Harry Styles’s self-titled debut album immediately shot to the top of the charts upon its release in May 2017, landing the number one position in 84 different countries along with selling a historic, record-breaking 230,000 album units. He now holds the title for the biggest debut sales week for a British male musician in the United States .

Two weeks before the release of his album, Styles took to Twitter the announcement of his first solo world tour. A week before the world even heard the entirety of his album, Styles’ world tour had sold out in under two minutes .

In October 2019, “Lights Up” was released which debuted at number three in the U.K. and served as the lead single for Styles' second studio album, Fine Line . “Lights Up” was followed by his second single “Watermelon Sugar,” which became his first No. 1 on Billboard Hot 100 , and then his third single “Adore You,” went to peak at number seven in the U.K. charts .

On December 13th 2019, Styles shared his highly-anticipated second album Fine Line . It topped the U.K. and U.S. charts. This made him the first British male artist to have his first two albums debut at number one .

In between making music, Styles is sought after by award-winning directors. He appeared on the big screen as a WWII soldier in Christopher Nolan ’s Dunkirk (2017) within the same year he debuted as a solo artist. He is set to star as the male lead in Olivia Wilde ’s Don’t Worry Darling , as well as one of the male leads in Michael Grandage ’s My Policeman , based on the novel of the same name by Bethan Roberts.

In April 2022, Styles returned and released “As It Was,” the lead single from his third studio album, Harry’s House , which got released on May 20th of that same year.

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26 Essential Things to Know About Harry Styles

It's the singer's 26th birthday, and we're celebrating with a triple layer cake of fun facts.

Many of you know the basic story of Harry Styles ' life by now.

Born in England, auditioned for The   X Factor as a solo artist, was grouped with the four other members of One Direction  by the man of many t-shirts, Simon Cowell , and the rest is history.

But the enviably coiffed singer, who went solo in 2016, has packed a lot of living into his 26 years and, as it turns out, 6-foot-tall drinks of water run deep. 

With millions of albums sold as a member of one of the biggest boy bands of all time and on his own, a well-received part in a World War II epic, a budding career as a late-night host and at least 1,000 suit patterns to his name, the devoted Stylers of the world have earned a maximum return on that investment they made a decade ago.

"While I was in the band," he told Rolling Stone last summer, "I was constantly scared I might sing a wrong note. I felt so much weight in terms of not getting things wrong. I remember when I signed my record deal and I asked my manager, 'What happens if I get arrested? Does it mean the contract is null and void?'

"Now, I feel like the fans have given me an environment to be myself and grow up and create this safe space to learn and make mistakes."

If he ever makes a mistake, surely we'll hear about it, but until then, these are 26 essential things to know about birthday boy Harry Edward Styles:

Harry Edward Styles was born on Feb. 1, 1994, in the Worcestershire town of Evesham, to Anne Cox and Desmond Styles . He has an older sister named Gemma , who was born in 1990.

The family moved to Holmes Chapel, in Cheshire, when he was a baby and, according to Anne, her son's first word was "cat."

Styles called the village of about 5,000 people that he grew up in " quite boring ," but "picturesque."

In the 1D biography  Dare to Dream , Harry recalled crying—not a normal occurrence for him—when his parents told him and Gemma that they were splitting up. He was 7.

"I guess I didn't really get what was going on properly, I was just sad that my parents wouldn't be together anymore," he said.

Des and Anne continued to live together for another two years before he moved out and Anne moved Harry and Gemma to Northwich, in the Cheshire countryside. By the time Harry was a teenager, they lived back in Holmes Chapel.

After being together for over a decade, Anne married Robin Twist in 2013. Harry walked his mom down the aisle and was best man at their wedding.

By all accounts, Harry was an attention-loving, creative little boy and a born entertainer (whether it was singing or streaking through a train station in his boxers). He got a rush from doing school plays, and the music he'd listen to with his dad on weekends—classic rock like Elvis Presley , the Beatles, Pink Floyd and Queen—helped shape his own taste.

According to Louisa Jepson 's 2013 biography Harry Styles—Every Piece of Me , the first recording he made, using a karaoke machine that was a present from his grandfather, was Elvis' "The Girl of My Best Friend." As he got older, Coldplay, John Mayer and Noel Gallagher joined his roster of favorites. 

When he first got into a band at around 14, Harry intended to learn the bass, but they already had a guy who played bass, so he ended up being the singer. They called themselves White Eskimo and ended up winning their school's Battle of the Bands competition, which came with a £100 prize and helped them score their first gig, playing a wedding.

"He's certainly not shy about himself," Anne told  Now magazine about her son in 2010. "Ever since he was young he's made people smile. I always thought he'd end up on stage."

Harry earned a little extra scratch—£6 an hour—working at W. Mandeville bakery on Saturdays. 

"He was the most polite member of staff we've ever had," his former boss, Simon Wakefield, told the Mirror   in 2013, when Styles returned to the shop to shoot scenes for One Direction: This Is Us . "Customers really took a shine to him." 

Wakefield continued, "The shop suddenly had an influx of girls when Harry worked here. Sometimes there would be 12 of them pouring in at one time. Even now, a group of 20 girls will sometimes come in and start taking photos of the shop. He was a really hard worker. His jobs were serving in the shop, cleaning the back, ­scrubbing the floor, washing the trays and cleaning the counter."

Anne was the one who ended up sending Harry's  X Factor application in when he got cold feet.

"People tell me I'm a good singer. It's normally my mum," the 16-year-old said, already the charmer, when he auditioned for  The X Factor  in the spring of 2010, performing Stevie Wonder 's "Isn't She Lovely" a cappella. "Singing is what I want to do and if people who can make that happen for me think I shouldn't be doing that, then it's a major setback in my plans."

Well, they did and they didn't. Harry didn't make it through to the final Boys group, or even to the penultimate Boys group, but the show didn't want to let him go. 

Fatefully, Simon Cowell   and Nicole Scherzinger , who was a guest judge filling in for Cheryl Cole , thought to group Harry together with fellow aspiring solo artists Liam Payne , Niall Horan , Zayn Malik and Louis Tomlinson .

"Come on, I'm not going to take credit, but I'm going to take credit," Scherzinger says in the 2013 documentary  One Direction: Going Our Way about her usually uncredited role in capturing lightning in a bottle. ( Louis Walsh , meanwhile, was the  other  judge, the one who infamously didn't get Harry at all.)

It was Harry, however, who came up with the group's name.

"I thought it sounded good," he recalled on CBS Sunday Morning   in 2017. "We threw around names for a little bit, and I honestly don't know. I suggested it and everyone was like, 'Yeah, we like that,' and then it kind of stuck, and that was what it was."

"Basically we just came up with the idea to make loads of names up," Zayn said on Phoenix's Hot 97.5 FM in 2012, "and it was one of the first names Harry came up with. He just texted it to us and we were like, 'Yeah, I like that, it's cool.' There were some really embarrassing ones that Liam came up with...What was the other one? USP—Unique Selling Point."

In October 2010, One Direction hit the  X Factor  stage live for the first time.

"I know I'm his mum, but he really is a lovely young man and he's coming across exactly as he is at home," Anne praised Harry to  Now  during his run on the show.

"But when he went off to the  X Factor  house I said to him, 'Keep true to who you are, Harry, don't turn into an arse. You'll still have to unload the dishwasher when you get home.'"

Even though he was born to do this for a living, once the live shows began, Harry started having panic attacks before going onstage, per Alice Montgomery's  Harry.  One time he threw up in the hall first, and he eventually took to drinking sparkling mineral water and doing breathing exercises to settle himself.

Before moving on to win at life, One Direction didn't actually win  The X Factor  in December 2010. In fact, they came in third, behind series seven champ Matt Cardle and runner-up Rebecca Ferguson .

"I used to be friends with girls as well as boys," Harry once said, remembering his primary school days, according to biographer Louisa Jepson . "I wasn't one of those boys who thought girls were smelly and didn't like them. I was kind of friends with everyone."

His White Eskimo bandmate Will Sweeny told the Daily Star , "I know it sounds funny but, even in primary school, he had a few girls on the go. It was rather amusing. From Year Four, when he was about 10, Harry started with proper girlfriends. He just had this unbelievable way with girls all his life."

Louis Tomlinson once told The Sun , perhaps needling his pal on purpose a bit, that the only problem with sharing a flat with Harry "is the constant stream of women he is getting through our door. It's relentless." (Surely Louis could've gone toe-to-toe with his roommate, but he was in a relationship with Eleanor Calder .)

Dad Desmond assured Jepson, however, that when his son was serious about a girl, he was a one-woman bloke. 

Harry also took safety seriously. "The first time I had sex, I was scared I got the girl pregnant," he told OK!   in 2012. "And that was despite the fact we were safe. Luckily, we were fine. To get lazy and say you'll be fine is selfish."

After One Direction won  The X Factor , in 2011 Harry publicly set his sights on 22-year-old Frankie Bridge of The Saturdays and 31-year-old Caroline Flack , host of the X Factor supplement  The Xtra Factor .

"I've been in love with Frankie since I was about 8 and she was in S Club Juniors ," he told the  Daily Star Sunday . "I even had posters of her. I'd love to kiss her. Frankie and Caroline Flack are my favorites, they're both hot." After the interview, he commented on  The X Factor  website, "If Caroline Flack is reading this, say 'hi' from me. She's gorgeous!"

In October 2011, Harry and Caroline came face to face at a show after-party at London's W Hotel and they left together (though, according to Alice Montgomery , nothing in particular occurred between them that night). 

"We were both single, we got on well and we had a laugh," Flack wrote in her 2015 memoir ,  Storm in a C Cup . "It was only when it become public knowledge that things turned sour. At the beginning it was all very playful. He joked about being attracted to older women."

Even while they insisted they were just friends, One Directioners came out in force to lay claim to Harry, resulting in Flack tweeting, "I'm close friends with Harry. He's one of the nicest people I know. I don't deserve death threats."

"Flack off, Caroline," read a banner on display at a 1D concert.

Meanwhile, neither fans nor critics would lay off the 14-year age gap. "What's hard for me to get my head around is people saying it's disgusting," Flack told  Now . "I don't think it is. Some people tend to see the negative immediately and that's what I find strange. If two people like each other and get on, why does anyone else find a negative in it?"

With 1D on the verge of international super-stardom, however, the pair quietly stopped seeing other in early 2012. 

Harry appeared with the rest of 1D on a 2012 episode of  iCarly , in which the band is due to perform (as themselves) but Harry catches, um, "jungle worms" after drinking out of Carly's water bottle, shortly after the doctor warns her she could still be contagious and to not go around kissing anyone yet. And even after he's better, Harry insists he still has that mysterious affliction so that Carly will keep taking care of him.

Those crazy kids! Eventually Harry gets better and 1D can go ahead with singing "That's What Makes You Beautiful."

This brief moment in history lives on on YouTube and in the form of tweets like this gem from 2013 : "If you feel rejected just know- Harry Styles refused to kiss Miranda Cosgrove in the original script of the One Direction episode of iCarly ."

"I already know one of the biggest artists in the world thinks Harry is so hot," Justin Bieber told the Daily Mirror  in 2012, after the Kids' Choice Awards that brought Taylor Swift and Styles together, "but I have been sworn to secrecy."

"She's a great girl and she's extremely talented," Harry told  Seventeen  appreciatively that summer about Swift. "Honestly, she couldn't be a sweeter person."

Though it wasn't meant to last, Taylor was at 1D's Madison Square Garden debut that December (Harry was pelted with bras, undies and, inexplicably, an iPhone) and they were the prince and princess of pop for a few shining months, from their public date in Central Park, to their whirlwind trip to Harry's old stomping grounds of Northwich, to their ill-fated trip to the Caribbean that ended with Taylor on a boat , alone.

"When I see photos from that day," Styles  told Rolling Stone   in 2017, about their NYC park date, "I think: Relationships are hard, at any age. And adding in that you don't really understand exactly how it works when you're 18, trying to navigate all that stuff didn't make it easier. I mean, you're a little bit awkward to begin with. You're on a date with someone you really like. It should be that simple, right? It was a learning experience for sure. But at the heart of it—I just wanted it to be a normal date."

Referring to Swift's songs "Out of the Woods" and "Style," assumed to be about him, Styles said, "I'm lucky if everything helped create those songs. That's what hits your heart. That's the stuff that's hardest to say, and it's the stuff I talk least about. That's the part that's about the two people. I'm never going to tell anybody everything."

Asked if he had anything to tell Swift, he mused, "Certain things don't work out. There's a lot of things that can be right, and it's still wrong. In writing songs about stuff like that, I like tipping a hat to the  time together.  You're celebrating the fact it was powerful and made you feel something, rather than 'this didn't work out, and that's bad.' And if you run into that person, mayb

Harry likes snowboarding .

"They've been having fun," a source told E! News in January 2014 after Harry and Kendall Jenner   were spotted in Mammoth Lakes together. "We're friends. He's cool," added Kendall at the 2013 American Music Awards that November.

Harry also likes swimming. 

Such was the start of a years-long are-they-or-aren't-they friendship that has taken Styles and Jenner everywhere from Southern California to Anguilla and St. Barts .

Not naming names but noting a more recent relationship than Taylor that could have been Kendall, Harry  told  Rolling Stone  in 2017 , "She's a huge part of the album. Sometimes you want to tip the hat, and sometimes you just want to give them the whole cap...and hope they know it's just for them."

No, any photos you might have seen over the years in which Harry and Louis—or "Larry," as some took to calling them—appeared to be kissing were fake. 

"That is Photoshopped," Styles explained on Australia's Sunrise , looking at a picture in an actual magazine in which he and Tomlinson were puckering up toward each other. "There was a lady in there."

"They've actually done this to me and Niall as well," Louis added. "When somebody's in the middle, they just take the person out from the middle. It's very clever, actually."

In 2014, it was Harry who suggested while they were in the studio in London (very Beatles-esque) that One Direction might want to take a break.

"I didn't want to exhaust our fan base," he told Rolling Stone . "If you're shortsighted, you can think, 'Let's just keep touring,' but we all thought too much of the group than to let that happen. You realize you're exhausted and you don't want to drain people's belief in you."

His mates agreed, and then Zayn, who had been struggling with anxiety and having issues with then-fiancée Perrie Edwards (in that tabloids were reporting that he was cheating on her) got a jump on the break in March 2015 and left the group .

The rest of One Direction soldiered on, preparing their devoted fans for the inevitable with an announcement in August about their planned hiatus. Their last concert was on Oct. 31, 2015, a scary night indeed for the 1D faithful, at Britain's Sheffield Arena.

In response to Zayn Malik calling One Direction's music uncool—or at least nothing he would play on a date if he was trying to impress a girl over dinner—Harry stayed diplomatic.

"I think it's a shame he felt that way, but I never wish anything but luck to anyone doing what they love," Styles told  Rolling Stone . 

"If you're not enjoying something and need to do something else, you absolutely should do that. I'm glad he's doing what he likes, and good luck to him."

"I didn't want to write 'stories,' " he explained to RS about his 10-song debut solo album, fittingly titled  Harry Styles . "I wanted to write  my  stories, things that happened to me. The number-one thing was I wanted to be honest. I hadn't done that before." 

That being said, the game was  on  when it came to figuring out what, or who, he was singing about.

"I like to separate my personal life and work," Harry said. "It helps, I think, for me to compartmentalize. It's not about trying to make my career longer, like I'm trying to be this 'mysterious character,' because I'm not. When I go home, I feel like the same person I was at school. You can't expect to keep that if you show everything. There's the work and the personal stuff, and going between the two is my favorite s--t. It's amazing to me."

"The song is written from a point of view as if a mother was giving birth to a child and there's a complication," he told RS . "The mother is told, 'The child is fine, but you're not going to make it.' The mother has five minutes to tell the child, 'Go forth and conquer.'"

Harry Styles' hair, at any length, has long been one of his most fetching physical attributes. In 2017, British Vogue  dissected a photo taken of Harry's dressing table before he went onstage in Paris one night and counted seven  hair products, plus a bottle of Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille, a Diptyque candle and Sunday Riley face oil.

"I find it quite amusing that Harry has the regime of a very brand-savvy beauty editor—props to him for the Ouai hair products (which I love) and the Sunday Riley oil in particular,"  Vogue  beauty editor Lisa Niven noted. "And who wouldn't put a Diptyque candle on their rider?"

Before he returned to the spotlight to start promoting his solo music, only a few million people noticed that he had cut his hair.

"I felt very naked for a while," he admitted to Vogue . "I was like yeah, I've gotta shave my hair off. It wasn't a hard decision, it got made into a wig."

It's true, Harry has four nipples, two supernumerary ones located beneath his two regularly placed ones.

While Harry rocked tight pants and a rumpled T-shirt like no other while part of One Direction, he's been sporting fiercely tailored suits, or at least slacks and a dashing jacket, among other bold looks ever since, and has starred in two Gucci campaigns .

"I think both music and fashion, main influence was probably Shania Twain , " Styles told Entertainment Tonight . "Yeah, I think she's amazing."

Wait, what? 

Well, mom Anne did play a lot of Shania, along with Norah Jones and Savage Garden, in the '90s, while dad Des was home-schooling his son in rock 'n' roll.

Simultaneously juggling his musical ambitions, Harry made his feature film debut in Christopher Nolan 's sweeping World War II action drama  Dunkirk , which came out in July 2017 and went on to be nominated for eight Oscars, winning three.

Asked who it was harder to audition for, Nolan or Simon Cowell, Styles said on ITV's  This Morning that it was probably Nolan, "in that he doesn't say anything. Like at all. He just sits in the darkness in the back of the room... It's so intense because you do the audition and go home and obsess over whether people liked you or not."

At least he could rest assured that Nolan wasn't giving him special treatment.

"I don't think I was that aware really of how famous Harry was," the director told the Associated Press . "I mean, my daughter had talked about him. My kids talked about him, but I wasn't really that aware of it. So the truth is, I cast Harry because he fit the part wonderfully and truly earned a seat at the table."

Styles admitted that walking onto the set of a big-budget war epic was a bit intimidating at first.

"The first surprising thing was the scale of the production," he told The Big Issue . You walk onset the first day and get taken aback by everything." And for his first film, he had to figure out how to keep his head above water—literally.

In one of many harrowing scenes, Styles' character, British Army soldier Alex, almost drowns. "While you're down there filming and acting out the scene, you're also thinking, 'I cannot breathe for much longer than this' which obviously helps the situation," Harry recalled to  USA Today . The day before he arrived in France to start shooting, "they were asking if I could swim. And it was a lot of swimming. It was more like, 'If we make you swim forever, will you drown?'"

And...he's funny, too. 

While ubiquitous in 2017 promoting his music, Harry also convincingly filled in for James Corden as host of  The Late, Late Show  (he even pulled off the American political humor), and did the job again in 2019. Coincidentally, back in England some years ago, while house-hunting in Hampstead Heath, Harry spent almost two years staying at the home of  Late, Late Show executive producer Ben Winston and his wife, Meredith . He slept on a mattress in the attic. 

He was away a lot, being a major pop star, but still.

Styles told  RS  that he was too afraid of Meredith to bring anyone home, but Winston insisted, "He wasn't always alone, but it was exciting seeing the array of  A-listers  that would come up and sleep in the attic. Or he'd come and lounge with us. We'd never discuss business. He would act as if he hadn't come back from playing to 80,000 people three nights in a row in Rio de Janeiro."

Also in 2017, Styles played Mick Jagger (because, obviously) on  Saturday Night Live  when he was the musical guest when Jimmy Fallon hosted, and then in July 2018 on The Tonight Show  he told Jimmy he wouldn't mind hosting  that show, too. His wish was Jimmy's command, as Fallon promptly keeled over and Harry sat down comfortably behind the desk.

Styles returned to  SNL as host and musical guest in 2019 and crushed it.

CBS' Happy Together , Styles' first foray into U.S. network TV as an executive producer, was canceled after its initial 13-episode run.

When his first solo tour concluded in July 2018, selling almost 1 million tickets between 89 shows,  $1.2 million had been donated  to various charities from a portion of his proceeds and contributions from promoter Live Nation and the GLSEN PRIDE campaign.

27. Golden Wins

Nothing was going to drag Harry down after he won his first Grammy. The artist took home the Best Pop Solo Performance prize in 2021 for his hit “Watermelon Sugar.” Two years later, he received back-to-back trophies for his third solo album Harry's House —including Best Pop Vocal Album and the coveted Album of the Year honor.  “This doesn’t happen to people like me very often,” he said upon winning Album of the Year, “and this is so, so nice.”

 28. History-Making Cover Star

And Grammy winner isn’t the only title Harry has. In 2020, he became the first solo male cover star to grace the front of Vogue .

29. Music to Fans’ Ears

And don't forget about his music for other artists. In addition to penning his own songs, Harry earned writing credits for Ariana Grande ’s hit “Just a Little bit of Your Heart,” as well as Meghan Trainor and Michael Bublé ’s track “Someday.”

30. A Man of Many Interests

While it may be hard to imagine Harry pursuing professions other than music and acting—with him also appearing in Don’t Worry Darling directed by then-girlfriend Olivia Wilde —it wasn’t the only direction he initially considered for a career. In fact, the “Adore You” artist told Ellen DeGeneres in 2020 that if he wasn’t a singer he’d want to be a florist. Another job that piqued his interest? Physiotherapist. “I always wanted to be a footballer but I wasn’t good enough, so I wanted to be, like, a physio,” he said on a 2020 episode of BBC Radio 2’s The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show . “And then we had a career day at school and I got told there was no jobs in physiotherapy. So, I became a musician instead.”

And that's what makes him beautiful. Happy birthday, Harry!

( Originally published Feb. 1, 2019, at 3 a.m. PT )

Harry Styles

• 1.1 The X Factor
• 1.2 One Direction
• 1.3 Solo Career
• 2 Acting Career
• 3.1 Early Life
• 3.2 Love Life
• 4 Artistry and Influences
• 5 Filmography
• 6.1 Solo albums
• 6.2 One Direction albums
• 9 References

Music Career

The x factor.

Harry during his audition on The X Factor.

On 11 April 2010, Styles auditioned as a solo candidate for the seventh series of the British televised singing competition The X Factor . He failed to progress to the "Boys" category at "judges' houses." Four others in his age group did as well, but after a suggestion by Nicole Scherzinger, a guest judge, they were put together to form a five-piece boy band at Wembley Arena, in London, England, in July 2010, during the "bootcamp" stage of the competition, thus qualifying for the "Groups" category. Subsequently, the group got together for two weeks to get to know one another and to practise. Styles came up with the name One Direction. For their qualifying song at "judges' houses", and their first song as a group, One Direction sang an acoustic version of " Torn ". Simon Cowell later commented that the performance convinced him that the group "were confident, fun, like a gang of friends, and kind of fearless as well." Within the first four weeks of the live shows, they were Cowell's last act in the competition. The group quickly gained popularity in the UK.

One Direction performing on The X Factor.

One Direction finished in third place and immediately after the final, their song " Forever Young ", which would have been released if they had won The X Factor, was leaked onto the internet. Shortly afterwards it was confirmed that One Direction had been signed by Cowell to a reported £2 million Syco Records record contract. Recording for their debut album began in January 2011, as they flew to Los Angeles to work with RedOne, a record producer. A book licensed by One Direction, One Direction: Forever Young (Our Official X Factor Story), was published by HarperCollins in February 2011, subsequently topping The Sunday Times Best Seller list. The same month, the boy band and other contestants from the series participated in the X Factor Live Tour . During the tour the group performed for 500,000 people throughout the UK. After the tour concluded in April 2011, the group continued working on their debut album. Recording took place in Stockholm, London and Los Angeles, as One Direction worked with producers Carl Falk, Savan Kotecha, Steve Mac, and Rami Yacoub, among others. Styles came up with band name One Direction, which he thought would sound good when The X Factor announcer Peter Dickson read their name out on the live shows.

One Direction

One Direction at the 2015 AMAs.

Following The X Factor, One Direction were signed to Simon Cowell's Syco Entertainment in 2010. They released their first studio album, Up All Night , in 2011, followed by their second, Take Me Home , in 2012. One Direction: This Is Us , a documentary about the band directed by Morgan Spurlock, was released in August 2013. The film grossed more than $30 million worldwide its first weekend in theaters. The band's third studio album, Midnight Memories , was released on 25 November 2013. The band released their fourth studio album, Four , in 2014. During 2015, member Zayn Malik left the band to pursue a solo career. The band decided to continue as a four piece. It was also announced that the group will be going on a hiatus after releasing their newest album. Their fifth album, Made in the A.M. , was released in November 2015.

Solo Career

Harry during his photoshoot for his debut album Harry Styles .

On June 23, 2016, Billboard reported that Styles signed a recording contract with Columbia Records as a solo artist, the same label behind One Direction. His debut solo single Sign of the Times was released on April 7, 2017. His self-titled debut album was released on May 12, 2017. It debuted at #1 on the UK Albums Chart. He embarked on his first headlining concert tour, Harry Styles: Live on Tour , from September 2017 through to July 2018.

Harry during his photoshoot for his second album Fine Line

On October 11, 2019, Styles released the lead single Lights Up from his second studio album titled Fine Line . The album was thereafter preceeded by the singles Adore You , Falling and Watermelon Sugar with the latter peaking at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 during 2020, becoming Styles' first #1 single on the chart. His second studio album was released on December 13, 2019.

Acting Career

Harry in the film Dunkirk .

Styles made his acting debut in Christopher Nolan's action-thriller Dunkirk which is based on the British military evacuation in World War II. He starred alongside Tom Hardy, Mark Rylance, Cillian Murphy and Kenneth Branagh. During 2017, there were rumours circulating to Styles auditioning for the role of Han Solo for the Star Wars Han Solo spin-off film. These rumours were addressed when Styles appeared on The Graham Norton Show in April 2017. [1] During October 2017, Harry had been in early talks to star in the film The Goldfinch, as stated by Variety writer Justin Kroll. [2] In the month of July 2019, Styles was amongst the frontrunners to portray Elvis Presley in Baz Luhrmann's biopic before the role eventually went to actor Austin Butler. [3] During the same month, Styles was in talks to play the role of Prince Eric in the Disney live action remake of The Little Mermaid. [4]

During September 2020, it was confirmed that Styles will appear in the film Don't Worry, Darling directed by Olivia Wilde, replacing the role previously given to actor Shia LaBeouf. [5]

Personal Life

Harry during his childhood.

Harry Styles was born in Redditch, Worcestershire. He is the son of Anne Cox (née Selley) and Desmond "Des" Styles . Many of his ancestors were farm labourers in Norfolk. Styles was raised in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, after his parents moved there along with his older sister, Gemma , when he was a child. He attended Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School. Styles's parents divorced when he was seven and his mother later remarried his late step-father Robin Twist . As a sixteen-year-old he worked part-time at the W. Mandeville Bakery in Holmes Chapel.

• During 2010, Harry dated Felicity Skinner . They separated after having a long distance relationship.
• He dated Caroline Flack in 2011. This caused controversy seeing as Styles was 17 at the time and Flack was 32.
• Styles dated American singer Taylor Swift from November 2012 till January 2013. Swift's fifth album 1989 features two songs confirmed to be about Harry: "Style" and "Out Of The Woods".
• He was rumoured to be dating model Kendall Jenner during 2013. He has been spotted numerous of times with Jenner during 2014 and 2015. Harry also attended her 21st birthday party in November of 2016.
• Harry had a black dog called Max .
• He also has a cat named Dusty .

Artistry and Influences

Harry loves singing since he was a child, noting Freddie Mercury, Elvis Presley and The Beatles as his musical influences.

Filmography

Discography

Solo albums.

• Harry Styles (2017)
• Fine Line (2019)

One Direction albums

• Up All Night (2011)
• Take Me Home (2012)
• Midnight Memories (2013)
• Four (2014)
• Made in the A.M. (2015)
• Harry Styles: Live on Tour (2017-18)
• He had blonde hair as an infant.
• His zodiac sign is Aquarius.
• He is 6"1 feet tall.
• He has four nipples. All four can be seen in the Kiss You music video.
• In 2014, he supported the HeForShe equal rights campaign.
• He is a Manchester United and Green Bay Packers fan.
• Harry has shown interest in Judaism and Jewish culture. He has tweeted acknowledgement of Jewish holidays. Ben Winston gave Harry a kippah (also known as a yarmulke) as a birthday present in 2013. Harry referred to himself as spiritual, rather than religious, in his 2016 AnOther Man interview.
• He has matching tattoos with Ed Sheeran and Kings of Leon singer Nathan Followill. He also has matching screw tattoos with the rest of One Direction (Not Niall) and Lou Teasdale.
• On July 5 2016, Harry was a guest for Professor Robert Winston, Ben Winston 's father, at the House Of Lords, to hear the debate about the impact of the Brexit.
• He had the second most retweeted tweet of 2016.
• Michael Buble's 2016 song " Someday " was co-written by Harry, and Meghan Trainor. 
• He owns four companies: HSA Publishing Limited, Fridous Limited, Erskine Records Limited , and Erskine Touring Company LLP.
• ↑ digitalspy.com - Han Solo rumours
• ↑ twitter.com - Kroll's tweet
• ↑ vanityfair.com - Elvis Presley movie rumours
• ↑ hollywoodreporter.com - The Little Mermaid rumours
• ↑ variety.com - Confirmed casting for Harry in Don't Worry, Darling
• 1 List of unreleased songs
• 2 Already Home (song)
• 3 Love on Tour

The Eternal Sunshine of Harry Styles

By Rob Sheffield

Rob Sheffield

Harry Styles isn’t exactly dressed down for lunch. He’s got a white floppy hat that Diana Ross might have won from Elton in a poker game at Cher’s mansion circa 1974, plus Gucci shades, a cashmere sweater, and blue denim bell-bottoms. His nail polish is pink and mint green. He’s also carrying his purse — no other word for it — a yellow patent-canvas bag with the logo “Chateau Marmont.” The tough old ladies who work at this Beverly Hills deli know him well. Gloria and Raisa dote on him, calling him “my love” and bringing him his usual tuna salad and iced coffee. He turns heads, to put it mildly, but nobody comes near because the waitresses hover around the booth protectively.

He was just a small-town English lad of 16 when he became his generation’s pop idol with One Direction . When the group went on hiatus, he struck out on his own with his brash 2017 solo debut, whose lead single was the magnificently over-the-top six-minute piano ballad “Sign of the Times.” Even people who missed out on One Direction were shocked to learn the truth: This pinup boy was a rock star at heart.

A quick highlight reel of Harry’s 2019 so far: He hosted the Met Gala with Lady Gaga, Serena Williams, Alessandro Michele, and Anna Wintour serving an eyebrow-raising black lace red-carpet look. He is the official face of a designer genderless fragrance, Gucci’s Mémoire d’une Odeur. When James Corden had an all-star dodgeball match on The Late Late Show, Harry got spiked by a hard serve from Michelle Obama, making him perhaps the first Englishman ever hit in the nads on TV by a First Lady.

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Closer to his heart, he brought down the house at this year’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony with his tribute to his friend and idol Stevie Nicks . “She’s always there for you,” Harry said in his speech. “She knows what you need: advice, a little wisdom, a blouse, a shawl.” He added, “She’s responsible for more running mascara — including my own — than all the bad dates in history.” (Backstage, Nicks accidentally referred to Harry’s former band as “’NSync.” Hey, a goddess can get away with that sort of thing.)

Harry has been the world’s It boy for nearly a decade now. The weirdest thing about him? He loves being this guy. In a style of fast-lane celebrity that takes a ruthless toll on the artist’s personality, creativity, sanity, Harry is almost freakishly at ease. He has managed to grow up in public with all his boyish enthusiasm intact, not to mention his manners. He’s dated a string of high-profile women — but he never gets caught uttering any of their names in public, much less shading any of them. Instead of going the usual superstar-pop route — en vogue producers, celebrity duets, glitzy club beats — he’s gone his own way, and gotten more popular than ever. He’s putting the finishing touches on his new album, full of the toughest, most soulful songs he’s written yet. As he explains, “It’s all about having sex and feeling sad.”

The Harry Charm is a force of nature, and it can be almost frightening to witness in action. The most startling example might be a backstage photo from February taken with one of his heroes, Van Morrison. You have never seen a Van picture like this one. He’s been posing for photos for 50 years, and he’s been refusing to crack a smile in nearly all of them. Until he met Harry — for some reason, Van beams like a giddy schoolgirl. What did Harry do to him? “I was tickling him behind his back,” Harry confides. “Somebody sent me that photo — I think his tour manager took it. When I saw it, I felt like John Travolta in Pulp Fiction opening the case with the gold light shining. I was like, ‘Fuck, maybe I shouldn’t show this to anyone.’”

In interviews, Harry has always tended to coast on that charm, simply because he can. In his teens, he was in public every minute and became adept at guarding every scrap of his privacy. But these days, he’s finding out he has things he wants to say. He’s more confident about thinking out loud and seeing what happens. “Looser” is how he puts it. “More open. I’m discovering how much better it makes me feel to be open with friends. Feeling that vulnerability, rather than holding everything in.”

Like a lot of people his age, he’s asking questions about culture, gender, identity, new ideas about masculinity and sexuality. “I feel pretty lucky to have a group of friends who are guys who would talk about their emotions and be really open,” he says. “My friend’s dad said to me, ‘You guys are so much better at it than we are. I never had friends I could really talk to. It’s good that you guys have each other because you talk about real shit. We just didn’t.’”

It’s changed how he approaches his songs. “For me, it doesn’t mean I’ll sit down and be like, ‘This is what I have for dinner, and this is where I eat every day, and this is what I do before I go to bed,’” he says. “But I will tell you that I can be really pathetic when I’m jealous. Feeling happier than I’ve ever been, sadder than I’ve ever been, feeling sorry for myself, being mad at myself, being petty and pitiful — it feels really different to share that.”

At times, Harry sounds like an ordinary 25-year-old figuring his shit out, which, of course, he is. (Harry and I got to know each other last year, when he got in touch after reading one of my books, though I’d already been writing about his music for years.) It’s strange to hear him talk about shedding his anxieties and doubts, since he’s always come across as one of the planet’s most confident people. “While I was in the band,” he says, “I was constantly scared I might sing a wrong note. I felt so much weight in terms of not getting things wrong. I remember when I signed my record deal and I asked my manager, ‘What happens if I get arrested? Does it mean the contract is null and void?’ Now, I feel like the fans have given me an environment to be myself and grow up and create this safe space to learn and make mistakes.”

We slip out the back and spend a Saturday afternoon cruising L.A. in his 1972 silver Jaguar E-type. The radio doesn’t work, so we just sing “Old Town Road.” He marvels, “‘Bull riding and boobies’ — that is potentially the greatest lyric in any song ever.” Harry used to be pop’s mystery boy, so diplomatic and tight-lipped. But as he opens up over time, telling his story, he reaches the point where he’s pitching possible headlines for this profile. His best: “Soup, Sex, and Sun Salutations.”

How did he get to this new place? As it turns out, the journey involves some heartbreak. Some guidance from David Bowie. Some Transcendental Meditation. And more than a handful of magic mushrooms. But mostly, it comes down to a curious kid who can’t decide whether to be the world’s most ardently adored pop star, or a freaky artiste. So he decides to be both.

Two things about English rock stars never change: They love Southern California, and they love cars. A few days after Harry proclaimed the genius of “Old Town Road,” we’re in a different ride — a Tesla — cruising the Pacific Coast Highway while Harry sings along to the radio. “ Californiaaaaaa! ” he yells from behind the wheel as we whip past Zuma Beach. “It sucks!” There’s a surprising number of couples along the beach who seem to be arguing. We speculate on which ones are breaking up and which are merely having the talk. “Ah, yes, the talk,” Harry says dreamily. “Ye olde chat.”

Harry is feeling the smooth Seventies yacht-rock grooves today, blasting Gerry Rafferty, Pablo Cruise, Hall and Oates. When I mention that Nina Simone once did a version of “Rich Girl,” he needs to hear it right away. He counters by blowing my mind with Donny Hathaway’s version of John Lennon’s “Jealous Guy.”

Harry raves about a quintessential SoCal trip he just tried: a “cold sauna,” a process that involves getting locked in an ice chamber. His eyelashes froze. We stop for a smoothie (“It’s basically ice cream”) and his favorite pepper-intensive wheatgrass shot. It goes down like a dose of battery acid. “That’ll add years to your life,” he assures me.

We’re on our way to Shangri-La studios in Malibu, founded by the Band back in the 1970s, now owned by Rick Rubin. It’s where Harry made some of the upcoming album, and as we walk in, he grins at the memory. “Ah, yes,” he says. “Did a lot of mushrooms in here.”

Psychedelics have started to play a key role in his creative process. “We’d do mushrooms, lie down on the grass, and listen to Paul McCartney’s Ram in the sunshine,” he says. “We’d just turn the speakers into the yard.” The chocolate edibles were kept in the studio fridge, right next to the blender. “You’d hear the blender going, and think, ‘So we’re all having frozen margaritas at 10 a.m. this morning.’” He points to a corner: “This is where I was standing when we were doing mushrooms and I bit off the tip of my tongue. So I was trying to sing with all this blood gushing out of my mouth. So many fond memories, this place.”

It’s not mere rock-star debauchery — it’s emblematic of his new state of mind. You get the feeling this is why he enjoys studios so much. After so many years making One Direction albums while touring, always on the run, he finally gets to take his time and embrace the insanity of it all. “We were here for six weeks in Malibu, without going into the city,” he says. “People would bring their dogs and kids. We’d take a break to play cornhole tournaments. Family values!” But it’s also the place where he has proudly bled for his art. “ Mushrooms and Blood . Now there’s an album title.”

Some of the engineers come over to catch up on gossip. Harry gestures out the window to the Pacific waves, where the occasional nude revelry might have happened, and where the occasional pair of pants got lost. “There was one night where we’d been partying a bit and ended up going down to the beach and I lost all my stuff, basically,” he says. “I lost all my clothes. I lost my wallet. Maybe a month later, somebody found my wallet and mailed it back, anonymously. I guess it just popped out of the sand. But what’s sad is, I lost my favorite mustard corduroy flares.” A moment of silence is held for the corduroy flares.

Recording in the studio today is Brockhampton, the self-proclaimed “world’s greatest boy band.” Harry says hi to all the Brockhampton guys, which takes a while since there seem to be a few dozen of them. “We’re together all the time,” one tells Harry out in the yard. “We see each other all day, every day.” He pauses. “You know how it is.”

Harry breaks into a dry grin. “Yes, I know how it is.”

One Direction made three of this century’s biggest and best pop albums in a rush — Midnight Memories, Four and Made in the A.M. Yet they cut those records on tour, ducking into the nearest studio when they had a day off. 1D were a unique mix of five different musical personalities: Harry, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, and Liam Payne. But the pace took its toll. Malik quit in the middle of a tour, immediately after a show in Hong Kong. The band announced its hiatus in August 2015.

It’s traditional for boy-band singers, as they go solo and grow up, to renounce their pop past. Everybody remembers George Michael setting his leather jacket on fire, or Sting quitting the Police to make jazz records. This isn’t really Harry Styles’ mentality. “I know it’s the thing that always happens. When somebody gets out of a band, they go, ‘That wasn’t me. I was held back.’ But it was me. And I don’t feel like I was held back at all. It was so much fun. If I didn’t enjoy it, I wouldn’t have done it. It’s not like I was tied to a radiator.”

Whenever Harry mentions One Direction — never by name, always “the band” or “the band I was in” — he uses the past tense. It is my unpleasant duty to ask: Does he see 1D as over? “I don’t know,” he says. “I don’t think I’d ever say I’d never do it again, because I don’t feel that way. If there’s a time when we all really want to do it, that’s the only time for us to do it, because I don’t think it should be about anything else other than the fact that we’re all like, ‘Hey, this was really fun. We should do this again.’ But until that time, I feel like I’m really enjoying making music and experimenting. I enjoy making music this way too much to see myself doing a full switch, to go back and do that again. Because I also think if we went back to doing things the same way, it wouldn’t be the same, anyway.”

When the band stopped, did he take those friendships with him? “Yeah, I think so,” he says. “Definitely. Because above all else, we’re the people who went through that. We’re always going to have that, even if we’re not the closest. And the fact is, just because you’re in a band with someone doesn’t mean you have to be best friends. That’s not always how it works. Just because Fleetwood Mac fight, that doesn’t mean they’re not amazing. I think even in the disagreements, there’s always a mutual respect for each other — we did this really cool thing together, and we’ll always have that. It’s too important to me to ever be like, ‘Oh, that’s done.’ But if it happens, it will happen for the right reasons.”

If the intensity of the Harry fandom ever seems mysterious to you, there’s a live clip you might want to investigate, from the summer of 2018. Just search the phrase “Tina, she’s gay.” In San Jose, on one of the final nights of his tour, Harry spots a fan with a homemade sign: “I’m Gonna Come Out to My Parents Because of You!” He asks the fan her name (she says it’s Grace) and her mother’s name (Tina). He asks the audience for silence because he has an important announcement to make: “Tina! She’s gaaaaay !” Then he has the entire crowd say it together. Thousands of strangers start yelling “Tina, she’s gay,” and every one of them clearly means it — it’s a heavy moment, definitely not a sound you forget after you hear it. Then Harry sings “What Makes You Beautiful.” (Of course, the way things work now, the clip went viral within minutes. So did Grace’s photo of Tina giving a loving thumbs-up to her now-out teenage daughter. Grace and Tina attended Harry’s next show together.)

Harry likes to cultivate an aura of sexual ambiguity, as overt as the pink polish on his nails. He’s dated women throughout his life as a public figure, yet he has consistently refused to put any kind of label on his sexuality. On his first solo tour, he frequently waved the pride, bi, and trans flags, along with the Black Lives Matter flag. In Philly, he waved a rainbow flag he borrowed from a fan up front: “Make America Gay Again.” One of the live fan favorites: “Medicine,” a guitar jam that sounds a bit like the Grateful Dead circa Europe ’72, but with a flamboyantly pansexual hook: “The boys and girls are in/I mess around with them/And I’m OK with it.”

He’s always had a flair for flourishes like this, since the 1D days. An iconic clip from November 2014: Harry and Liam are on a U.K. chat show. The host asks the oldest boy-band fan-bait question in the book: What do they look for in a date? “Female,” Liam quips. “That’s a good trait.” Harry shrugs. “Not that important.” Liam is taken aback. The host is in shock. On tour in the U.S. that year, he wore a Michael Sam football jersey, in support of the first openly gay player drafted by an NFL team. He’s blown up previously unknown queer artists like King Princess and Muna.

What do those flags onstage mean to him? “I want to make people feel comfortable being whatever they want to be,” he says. “Maybe at a show you can have a moment of knowing that you’re not alone. I’m aware that as a white male, I don’t go through the same things as a lot of the people that come to the shows. I can’t claim that I know what it’s like, because I don’t. So I’m not trying to say, ‘I understand what it’s like.’ I’m just trying to make people feel included and seen.”

On tour, he had an End Gun Violence sticker on his guitar; he added a Black Lives Matter sticker, as well as the flag. “It’s not about me trying to champion the cause, because I’m not the person to do that,” he says. “It’s just about not ignoring it, I guess. I was a little nervous to do that because the last thing I wanted was for it to feel like I was saying, ‘Look at me! I’m the good guy!’ I didn’t want anyone who was really involved in the movement to think, ‘What the fuck do you know?’ But then when I did it, I realized people got it. Everyone in that room is on the same page and everyone knows what I stand for. I’m not saying I understand how it feels. I’m just trying to say, ‘I see you.’”

At one of his earliest solo shows, in Stockholm, he announced, “If you are black, if you are white, if you are gay, if you are straight, if you are transgender — whoever you are, whoever you want to be, I support you. I love every single one of you.” “It’s a room full of accepting people.… If you’re someone who feels like an outsider, you’re not always in a big crowd like that,” he says. “It’s not about, ‘Oh, I get what it’s like,’ because I don’t. For example, I go walking at night before bed most of the time. I was talking about that with a female friend and she said, ‘Do you feel safe doing that?’ And I do. But when I walk, I’m more aware that I feel OK to walk at night, and some of my friends wouldn’t. I’m not saying I know what it feels like to go through that. It’s just being aware.”  

‘Man cannot live by coffee alone,” Harry says. “But he will give it a damn good try.” He sips his iced Americano — not his first today, or his last. He’s back behind the wheel, on a mission to yet another studio — but this time for actual work. Today it’s string overdubs. Harry is dressed in Gucci from head to toe, except for one item of clothing: a ratty Seventies rock T-shirt he proudly scavenged from a vintage shop. It says “Commander Quaalude.”

On the drive over, he puts on the jazz pianist Bill Evans — “Peace Piece,” from 1959, which is the wake-up tone on his phone. He just got into jazz during a long sojourn in Japan. He likes to find places to hide out and be anonymous: For his first album, he decamped to Jamaica. Over the past year, he spent months roaming Japan.

In February, he spent his 25th birthday sitting by himself in a Tokyo cafe, reading Haruki Murakami’s The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle . “I love Murakami,” he says. “He’s one of my favorites. Reading didn’t really used to be my thing. I had such a short attention span. But I was dating someone who gave me some books; I felt like I had to read them because she’d think I was a dummy if I didn’t read them.”

A friend gave him Murakami’s Norwegian Wood . “It was the first book, maybe ever, where all I wanted to do all day was read this,” he says. “I had a very Murakami birthday because I ended up staying in Tokyo on my own. I had grilled fish and miso soup for breakfast, then I went to this cafe. I sat and drank tea and read for five hours.”

In the studio, he’s overseeing the string quartet. He has the engineers play T. Rex’s “Cosmic Dancer” for them, to illustrate the vibe he’s going for. You can see he enjoys being on this side of the glass, sitting at the Neve board, giving his instructions to the musicians. After a few run-throughs, he presses the intercom button to say, “Yeah, it’s pretty T. Rex. Best damn strings I ever heard.” He buzzes again to add, “And you’re all wonderful people.”

He’s curated his own weird enclave of kindred spirits to collaborate with, like producers Jeff Bhasker and Tyler Johnson. His guitarist Mitch Rowland was working at an L.A. pizza shop when Harry met him. They started writing songs for the debut; Rowland didn’t quit his job until two weeks into the sessions. One of his closest collaborators is also one of his best friends: Tom Hull, a.k.a. Kid Harpoon, a longtime cohort of Florence and the Machine. Hull is an effusive Brit with a heart-on-sleeve personality. Harry calls him “my emotional rock.” Hull calls him “Gary.”

Hull was the one who talked him into taking a course on Transcendental Meditation at David Lynch’s institute — beginning each day with 20 minutes of silence, which doesn’t always come naturally to either of them. “He’s got this wise-beyond-his-years timelessness about him,” Hull says. “That’s why he went on a whole emotional exploration with these songs.” He’s 12 years older, with a wife and kids in Scotland, and talks about Harry like an irreverent but doting big brother.

Last year, Harry was in the gossip columns dating the French model Camille Rowe; they split up last summer after a year together. “He went through this breakup that had a big impact on him,” Hull says. “I turned up on Day One in the studio, and I had these really nice slippers on. His ex-girlfriend that he was really cut up about, she gave them to me as a present — she bought slippers for my whole family. We’re still close friends with her. I thought, ‘I like these slippers. Can I wear them — is that weird?’

“So I turn up at Shangri-La the first day and literally within the first half-hour, he looks at me and says, ‘Where’d you get those slippers? They’re nice.’ I had to say, ‘Oh, um, your ex-girlfriend got them for me.’ He said, ‘ Whaaaat? How could you wear those?’ He had a whole emotional journey about her, this whole relationship. But I kept saying, ‘The best way of dealing with it is to put it in these songs you’re writing.’”

True to his code of gallant discretion, Harry doesn’t say her name at any point. But he admits the songs are coming from personal heartbreak. “It’s not like I’ve ever sat and done an interview and said, ‘So I was in a relationship, and this is what happened,’” he says. “Because, for me, music is where I let that cross over. It’s the only place, strangely, where it feels right to let that cross over.”

The new songs are certainly charged with pain. “The stars didn’t align for them to be a forever thing,” Hull says. “But I told him that famous Iggy Pop quote where he says, ‘I only ever date women who are going to fuck me up, because that’s where the songs are.’ I said, ‘You’re 24, 25 years old, you’re in the eligible-bachelor category. Just date amazing women, or men, or whatever, who are going to fuck you up, and explore and have an adventure and let it affect you and write songs about it.’”

His band is full of indie rockers who’ve gotten swept up in Hurricane Harry. Before becoming his iconic drum goddess, Sarah Jones played in New Young Pony Club, a London band fondly remembered by a few dozen of us. Rowland and Jones barely knew anything about One Direction before they met Harry — the first time they heard “Story of My Life” was when he asked them to play it. Their conversation is full of references to Big Star or Guided by Voices or the Nils Lofgren guitar solo in Neil Young’s “Speakin’ Out.” This is a band full of shameless rock geeks, untainted by industry professionalism.

In the studio, while making the album, Harry kept watching a vintage Bowie clip on his phone — a late-Nineties TV interview I’d never seen. As he plays it for me, he recites along — he’s got the rap memorized. “Never play to the gallery,” Bowie advises. “Never work for other people in what you do.” For Harry, this was an inspiring pep talk — a reminder not to play it safe. As Bowie says, “If you feel safe in the area that you’re working in, you’re not working in the right area. Always go a little further into the water than you feel you are capable of being in. Go a little bit out of your depth. And when you don’t feel that your feet are quite touching the bottom, you’re just about in the right place to do something exciting.”

He got so obsessive about Joni Mitchell and her 1971 classic Blue , he went on a quest. “I was in a big Joni hole,” he says. “I kept hearing the dulcimer all over Blue . So I tracked down the lady who built Joni’s dulcimers in the Sixties.” He found her living in Culver City. “She said, ‘Come and see me,’” Hull says. “We turn up at her house and he said, ‘How do you even play a dulcimer?’ She gave us a lesson. Then she got a bongo and we were all jamming with these big Cheshire Cat grins.” She built the dulcimer Harry plays on the new album. “Joni Mitchell and Van Morrison, those are my two favorites,” he says. “ Blue and Astral Weeks are just the ultimate in terms of songwriting. Melody-wise, they’re in their own lane.”

He’s always been the type to go overboard with his fanboy enthusiasms, ever since he was a kid and got his mind blown by Pulp Fiction . “I watched it when I was probably too young,” he admits. “But when I was 13, I saved up money from my paper route to buy a ‘Bad Motherfucker’ wallet. Just a stupid white kid in the English countryside with that wallet.” While in Japan, he got obsessively into Paul McCartney and Wings, especially London Town and Back to the Egg . “In Tokyo I used to go to a vinyl bar, but the bartender didn’t have Wings records. So I brought him Back to the Egg . ‘Arrow Through Me,’ that was the song I had to hear every day when I was in Japan.”

He credits meditation for helping to loosen him up. “I was such a skeptic going in ,” he says. “But I think meditation has helped with worrying about the future less, and the past less. I feel like I take a lot more in—things that used to pass by me because I was always rushing around. It’s part of being more open and talking with friends. It’s not always the easiest to go in a room and say, ‘I made a mistake and it made me feel like this, and then I cried a bunch.’ But that moment where you really let yourself be in that zone of being vulnerable, you reach this feeling of openness. That’s when you feel like, ‘Oh, I’m fucking living, man.’”

After quite a few hours of recording the string quartet, a bottle of Casamigos tequila is opened. Commander Quaalude pours the drinks, then decides what the song needs now is a gaggle of nonsingers bellowing the chorus. “Muppet vocals” is how he describes it. He drags everyone in sight to crowd around the mics. Between takes, he wanders over to the piano to play Harry Nilsson’s “Gotta Get Up.” One of the choir members, creative director Molly Hawkins, is the friend who gave him the Murakami novel. “I think every man should read Norwegian Wood, ” she says. “Harry’s the only man I’ve given it to who actually read it.”

It’s been a hard day’s night in the studio, but after hours, everyone heads to a dive bar on the other side of town to see Rowland play a gig. He’s sitting in with a local bar band, playing bass. Harry drives around looking for the place, taking in the sights of downtown L.A. (“Only a city as narcissistic as L.A. would have a street called Los Angeles Street,” he says.) He strolls in and leans against the bar in the back of the room. It’s an older crowd, and nobody here has any clue who he is. He’s entirely comfortable lurking incognito in a dim gin joint. After the gig, as the band toasts with PBRs, an old guy in a ball cap strolls over and gives Rowland a proud bear hug. It’s his boss from the pizza shop.  

In the wee hours, Harry drives down a deserted Sunset Boulevard, his favorite time of night to explore the city streets, arguing over which is the best Steely Dan album. He insists that Can’t Buy a Thrill is better than Countdown to Ecstasy (wrongly), and seals his case by turning it up and belting “Midnight Cruiser” with truly appalling gusto. Tonight Hollywood is full of bright lights, glitzy clubs, red carpets, but the prettiest pop star in town is behind the wheel, singing along with every note of the sax solo from “Dirty Work.”

A few days later, on the other side of the world: Harry’s pad in London is lavish, yet very much a young single dude’s lair. Over here: a wall-size framed Sex Pistols album cover. Over there: a vinyl copy of Stevie Nicks’ The Other Side of the Mirror , casually resting on the floor. He’s having a cup of tea with his mum, Anne, the spitting image of her son, all grace and poise. “We’re off to the pub,” he tells her. “We’re going to talk some shop.” She smiles sweetly. “Talk some shit, probably,” says Anne.

We head off to his local, sloshing through the rain. He’s wearing a Spice World hoodie and savoring the soggy London-osity of the day. “Ah, Londres!” he says grandly. “I missed this place.” He wants to sit at a table outside, even though it’s pouring, and we chat away the afternoon over a pot of mint tea and a massive plate of fish and chips. When I ask for toast, the waitress brings out a loaf of bread roughly the size of a wheelbarrow. “Welcome to England,” Harry says.

He’s always had a fervent female fandom, and, admirably, he’s never felt a need to pretend he doesn’t love it that way. “They’re the most honest — especially if you’re talking about teenage girls, but older as well,” he says. “They have that bullshit detector. You want honest people as your audience. We’re so past that dumb outdated narrative of ‘Oh, these people are girls, so they don’t know what they’re talking about.’ They’re the ones who know what they’re talking about. They’re the people who listen obsessively. They fucking own this shit. They’re running it.”

He doesn’t have the uptightness some people have about sexual politics, or about identifying as a feminist. “I think ultimately feminism is thinking that men and women should be equal, right? People think that if you say ‘I’m a feminist,’ it means you think men should burn in hell and women should trample on their necks. No, you think women should be equal. That doesn’t feel like a crazy thing to me. I grew up with my mum and my sister — when you grow up around women, your female influence is just bigger. Of course men and women should be equal. I don’t want a lot of credit for being a feminist. It’s pretty simple. I think the ideals of feminism are pretty straightforward.”

His audience has a reputation for ferocity, and the reputation is totally justified. At last summer’s show at Madison Square Garden, the floor was wobbling during “Kiwi” — I’ve been seeing shows there since the 1980s, but I’d never seen that happen before. (The only other time? His second night.) His bandmates admit they feared for their lives, but Harry relished it. “To me, the greatest thing about the tour was that the room became the show,” he says. “It’s not just me.” He sips his tea. “I’m just a boy, standing in front of a room, asking them to bear with him.”

That evening, Fleetwood Mac take the stage in London — a sold-out homecoming gig at Wembley Stadium, the last U.K. show of their tour. Needless to say, their most devoted fan is in the house. Harry has brought a date: his mother, her first Fleetwood Mac show. He’s also with his big sister Gemma, bandmates Rowland and Jones, a couple of friends.

He’s in hyperactive-host mode, buzzing around his cozy VIP box, making sure everyone’s champagne glass is topped off at all times. As soon as the show begins, Harry’s up on his feet, singing along (“Tell me, tell me liiiiies !”) and cracking jokes. You can tell he feels free — as if his radar is telling him there aren’t snoopers or paparazzi watching. (He’s correct. This is a rare public appearance where nobody spots him and no photos leak online.) It’s family night. His friend Mick Fleetwood wilds out on the drum solo. “Imagine being that cool,” Gemma says.

Midway through the show, Harry’s demeanor suddenly changes. He gets uncharacteristically solemn and quiet, sitting down by himself and focusing intently on the stage. It’s the first time all night he’s taken a seat. He’s in a different zone than he was in a few minutes ago. But he’s seen many Fleetwood Mac shows, and he knows where they are in the set. It’s time for “Landslide.” He sits with his chin in hand, his eyes zeroing in on Stevie Nicks. As usual, she introduces her most famous song with the story of how she wrote it when she was just a lass of 27.

But Stevie has something else she wants to share. She tells the stadium crowd, “I’d like to dedicate this to my little muse, Harry Styles, who brought his mother tonight. Her name is Anne. And I think you did a really good job raising Harry, Anne. Because he’s really a gentleman, sweet and talented, and, boy, that appeals to me. So all of you, this is for you.”

As Stevie starts to sing “Landslide” — “I’ve been afraid of changing, because I built my life around youuuu ” — Anne walks over to where Harry sits. She crouches down behind him, reaches her arms around him tightly. Neither of them says a word. They listen together and hold each other close to the very end of the song. Everybody in Wembley is singing along with Stevie, but these two are in a world of their own.

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Harry Styles

Harry Edward Styles (born 1 February 1994) is an English pop singer and actor, known as a member of the boy band One Direction. He made his debut as a singer with his band White Eskimo, who performed locally in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, England. In 2010, Styles auditioned as a solo artist for the British television series The X Factor. After being eliminated as a solo performer, Styles was brought back into the competition, along with four other contestants, to form the group that would later become known as One Direction. A native of Holmes Chapel, Styles attended Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School, and also worked part-time at a local bakery. He became interested in singing at a young age, performing at various talent shows, singing competitions and weddings. In addition to singing, Styles has also appeared in television and film. Since joining One Direction, Styles, along with bandmates Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne and Louis Tomlinson, have released three commercially successful albums, performed on a worldwide tour, and won several awards, including two BRIT Awards and four MTV Video Music Awards. Their debut single "What Makes You Beautiful" debuted at number one on the UK Singles Chart, and has since sold over 5 million copies worldwide, making it among one the best-selling singles of all time.

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35 Facts About Harry Styles

Written by Trescha Woodhouse

Modified & Updated: 30 May 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Harry Styles is a name that needs no introduction in the world of entertainment. From his early days as a member of the popular boy band One Direction to his thriving solo career, Styles has captivated audiences with his charm, talent, and infectious personality. With his distinctive voice, trend-setting fashion sense, and undeniable star power, he has become a true icon of our generation.

In this article, we will delve into 35 fascinating facts about Harry Styles that will shed light on his life, career, and the journey that has made him the beloved celebrity he is today. From his humble beginnings to his triumphs on the global stage, we will explore the many dimensions of this talented artist. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to dive into the world of Harry Styles!

Key Takeaways:

• Harry Styles, the former One Direction member, is a talented musician, actor, and fashion icon with a strong connection to his fans and a passion for charitable causes.
• From his distinctive curly hair to his chart-topping solo hits, Harry Styles continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his music, fashion sense, and charismatic personality.

Harry Styles was born on February 1, 1994, in Redditch, England.

Harry Styles, the talented artist and former member of One Direction , entered the world on a chilly winter day in Redditch, England.

He rose to fame as a member of the boy band One Direction.

Harry became widely known when he auditioned for the reality TV show “The X Factor” and was placed in the group that would later become One Direction.

His distinctive curly hair became one of his trademark features.

Harry’s wild and curly hair captured the hearts of fans around the world, becoming one of his most distinctive features.

He has a wide range of musical influences including The Beatles, Coldplay, and Elvis Presley.

Harry’s taste in music is diverse, drawing inspiration from legendary artists such as The Beatles, Coldplay, and Elvis Presley.

Styles made his acting debut in the 2017 film “Dunkirk.”

Harry impressed fans and critics alike with his acting skills in Christopher Nolan’s World War II drama “Dunkirk.”

He has released two solo albums, “Harry Styles” and “Fine Line.”

After One Direction went on hiatus, Harry embarked on a successful solo career, releasing his self-titled debut album in 2017 and “Fine Line” in 2019.

Harry is known for his charitable endeavors.

Harry has been involved in numerous charitable causes, including supporting cancer research, mental health awareness, and LGBTQ+ rights.

He has a strong and dedicated fan base known as “Harry Styles’ fans or “Harries.”

Harry’s fans, also known as “Harries,” are known for their unwavering support and dedication to the singer.

He has an impressive collection of tattoos.

Harry is known for his extensive tattoo collection, with designs ranging from song lyrics to meaningful symbols.

He embarked on a successful world tour in 2018-2019.

Harry’s world tour showcased his incredible talent and stage presence, delighting fans across the globe.

Harry is an advocate for sustainable fashion.

He encourages eco-friendly fashion choices and has been spotted wearing clothing from sustainable and ethical brands.

He made his debut as a solo artist on Saturday Night Live in 2017.

Harry’s first solo performance on the iconic show Saturday Night Live marked a significant milestone in his career.

He is the first British male artist to debut at number one in the US with his first album.

Harry’s self-titled debut album made history by reaching the number one spot on the Billboard 200 chart.

He has a close friendship with fellow musician Ed Sheeran.

Harry and Ed Sheeran’s friendship has been well-documented, with the two often supporting and collaborating with each other.

Styles’ fashion sense has earned him praises from the fashion industry.

Harry’s unique and effortlessly cool style has caught the attention of the fashion world, leading to collaborations with renowned designers.

He has won several awards including two American Music Awards.

Harry’s talent has been recognized with numerous awards, including two American Music Awards for his solo work.

He made his acting debut on the TV show “iCarly” in 2012.

Before his big break in music, Harry made a guest appearance on the popular Nickelodeon series “iCarly.”

Harry is known for his philanthropy and support for various charitable organizations.

He has donated to causes such as cancer research, disaster relief efforts , and supporting communities in need.

He has a strong presence on social media, with millions of followers on platforms like Instagram and Twitter.

Harry’s active presence on social media allows him to connect with his fans around the world and share updates on his music and projects.

He is a talented songwriter and has co-written songs for other artists.

Aside from his own music, Harry has collaborated with other artists in writing songs, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter.

Styles won the British Fashion Awards’ prestigious “British Style Award” in 2013 and 2014.

His influential fashion choices earned him back-to-back wins at the British Fashion Awards, solidifying his status as a style icon.

He portrayed a character based on himself in the film “One Direction: This Is Us.”

In the documentary film about One Direction, Harry played a version of himself, giving fans a glimpse into his life on and off stage.

He is known for his charismatic and captivating stage presence.

Harry’s performances are electrifying, leaving audiences enchanted and wanting more.

Styles’ debut solo single “Sign of the Times” reached number one on the UK Singles Chart.

His powerful debut single topped the charts in the UK, cementing his success as a solo artist.

He has acted in a staged production of the play “Dunkirk.”

Harry explored his acting skills further by taking on a role in the theatrical production of “Dunkirk.

Styles starred alongside Lily James in the 2019 film “Yesterday.”

Harry showcased his acting abilities once again in the musical romantic comedy film “ Yesterday .

He has a fondness for classic rock music.

Harry has expressed his love for classic rock bands like The Rolling Stones and Fleetwood Mac .

Styles has a strong connection with his fans and often interacts with them during concerts.

Harry values his fans and is known for his heartfelt interactions and moments of connection during live performances.

He launched his own beauty line called “Pleasure H.”

Harry expanded his creative endeavors into the beauty industry, launching his own line of gender-neutral beauty products.

Styles’ song “Watermelon Sugar” topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2020.

His infectious hit song “Watermelon Sugar” achieved great success, earning him another number one spot on the Billboard charts.

He made his acting debut in a feature film with “Dunkirk.”

Harry’s first foray into acting was alongside an ensemble cast in the critically acclaimed war film “Dunkirk.

Styles has a strong connection with his hometown and often gives back to the community.

Despite his global success, Harry remains grounded and actively supports initiatives in his hometown of Redditch .

He has a love for animals and has been spotted with pets like dogs and a pet monkey.

Harry is known for his affection for animals and has been seen with his furry friends, including his beloved pet monkey.

Styles has collaborated with fashion brands such as Gucci and Calvin Klein.

His unique sense of fashion has caught the attention of renowned fashion houses, leading to collaborations with luxury brands.

He continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his music and charismatic personality.

Harry Styles’ impact in the music industry goes far beyond his boy band days, as he continues to captivate audiences with his soulful voice and magnetic stage presence.

Harry Styles is undoubtedly a multifaceted talent, with a successful career in music and a passionate fan base. From his early days in One Direction to his blossoming solo career, Styles has captivated audiences with his charismatic persona and undeniable talent. With his distinctive fashion sense and infectious charm, Styles has become a prominent figure in the music industry.In this article, we have explored 35 fascinating facts about Harry Styles, shedding light on his journey, achievements, and personal life. From his musical influences and songwriting skills to his philanthropic endeavors, it is clear that Styles is more than just a pop star. He continues to push boundaries and evolve as an artist, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.Whether you’re a dedicated fan or someone intrigued by his rise to stardom, these facts offer a deeper glimpse into the life of Harry Styles. His talent, passion, and commitment to his craft set him apart, making him one of the most influential artists of our generation. With his music resonating with fans worldwide, there’s no doubt that Harry Styles will continue to make waves in the music industry for years to come.

Q: When did Harry Styles begin his music career?

A: Harry Styles rose to fame as a member of the British-Irish boy band One Direction, which was formed in 2010 on the reality show “The X Factor.”

Q: How many albums has Harry Styles released as a solo artist?

A: Harry Styles has released two successful solo albums, “Harry Styles” in 2017 and “Fine Line” in 2019.

Q: Has Harry Styles won any awards for his music?

A: Yes, Harry Styles has won numerous awards, including the Brit Award for British Album of the Year in 2021 and the American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Album in 2020.

Q: Is Harry Styles involved in any philanthropic efforts?

A: Yes, Harry Styles actively supports various charitable causes, including organizations focused on mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental conservation.

Q: Has Harry Styles ventured into acting?

A: Yes, Harry Styles has ventured into acting, making his film debut in the critically acclaimed war film “Dunkirk” directed by Christopher Nolan.

Q: What is Harry Styles’ signature fashion style?

A: Harry Styles is known for his unique and eclectic fashion sense, often seen sporting bold patterns, colorful suits, and vintage-inspired pieces.

Q: Has Harry Styles toured as a solo artist?

A: Yes, Harry Styles has embarked on multiple successful solo tours, showcasing his musical talents and entertaining fans around the world.

Q: Does Harry Styles write his own songs?

A: Yes, Harry Styles actively contributes to his songwriting process and has co-written many of his solo hits.

Harry Styles continues captivating fans worldwide with his incredible talent and charisma. If you're craving more fascinating insights about this iconic star, consider exploring additional content. Decorate your space with a stunning Harry Styles poster that showcases his unique style and undeniable presence. For those curious about his early days, uncover the secrets behind One Direction's rise to fame by diving into 36 intriguing facts about the beloved boy band . Embark on a journey through Styles' remarkable career and discover the mysteries that make him a true phenomenon in the music industry.

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Introduction

(born 1994). British singer, songwriter, and actor Harry Styles was one of the original members of the boy band One Direction . After the band members decided to take a break from the group, he became a successful solo artist. Styles later began a career as an actor. He was known for having a cutting-edge fashion style.

Harry Edward Styles was born on February 1, 1994, in Redditch, Worcestershire, England. His parents divorced when he was seven years old. Styles and his sister then lived with their mother in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, England. While attending Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School, Styles became the lead singer of a band formed with three fellow students.

One Direction

In 2010 Styles’s mother encouraged him to audition for the British music competition television show The X Factor . On the show he performed a rendition of “Isn’t She Lovely,” a song originally written by Stevie Wonder . Styles passed his first audition but did not make it to the finals. After he was eliminated, the show’s judges called back Styles and four other singers—Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, and Louis Tomlinson—to compete as a group on the show. Styles suggested that the group be named One Direction. One Direction ultimately took third place in the final round of the competition.

One Direction remained together after leaving The X Factor . The group released its debut studio album, Up All Night , in 2011. Styles cowrote three songs on the album. Up All Night climbed quickly to number two on the U.K. Albums Chart and to number one on the Billboard 200. One Direction’s next four albums were Take Me Home (2012), Midnight Memories (2013), Four (2014), and Made in the A.M. (2015). Hit songs, such as “Live While We’re Young,” “Kiss You,” “Best Song Ever,” “Story of My Life,” and “Night Changes,” helped to make the albums hugely successful.

Solo Music Career

In 2016 the members of One Direction decided to take a break from recording and touring. Styles subsequently pursued a solo career. That year he signed a contract with Columbia Records and launched Erskine Records, an independent record label. In 2017 he released his debut single, “Sign of the Times,” which topped the U.K. Singles Chart. The song appeared on his first album, Harry Styles , which was released later that year. His music became known for its combined elements of classic rock , soft rock, and pop .

Styles released his second album, Fine Line , in 2019. It broke U.S. sales records for a British male singer. Styles earned several award nominations for the album, including British Album of the Year at the 2020 BRIT Awards (the British equivalent of the Grammy Awards) and Best Pop Vocal Album at the 2021 Grammys. At those Grammys he won for Best Pop Solo Performance for the song “Watermelon Sugar.” The song also won the 2021 BRIT Award for British Single of the Year.

Styles’s third solo album, Harry’s House , was released in 2022. The single “As It Was” debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was nominated for several Grammy Awards. At the 2023 Grammys Harry’s House won three awards, including album of the year and best pop vocal album.

Acting Career

In 2017 Styles made his film debut as an actor in Dunkirk (2017). He portrayed a British soldier during World War II , and his performance received positive reviews. In 2021 Styles appeared in the fantasy adventure film Eternals . His first leading role was in the psychological thriller Don’t Worry Darling , which was released in 2022. That same year he starred in My Policeman , a drama set in 1950s England.

Philanthropy

From early in his career Styles was known for his philanthropy (working for humanitarian causes). He frequently donated proceeds from his concerts and tours to charities. He often took time onstage to bring awareness to equal rights, gender equality, and other causes. Styles promoted the slogan “Treat People with Kindness.” He wrote a song of the same name that appeared on the album Fine Line .

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Everything We Know About Harry Styles' 'Harry's House'

Ahead of the release of Harry Styles' new album, out May 20, GRAMMY.com compiled eight facts about the highly anticipated 'Harry's House.'

Although Harry Styles may be one of the most boisterous performers in today's pop sphere — just looking at photos from his Coachella headlining performance will psych you up — he's always approached social media with a light touch. So it's no surprise Styles took the coy route when announcing what his fans have anxiously awaited: his third album.

Styles revealed the big news on social media in March with just four words: "Harry's House. May 20th."

The boy bander turned rock star hasn't said too much about his next LP, the follow-up to 2019's Fine Line . But amid his Coachella teasers and his fitting Better Homes & Gardens cover story, there's still plenty to divulge for fans before Harry's House arrives.

Below, take a look at everything GRAMMY.com could find on Harry's House so far.

The Album Is Titled Harry's House , Arriving May 20

On March 23, Styles revealed his third album on social media in subdued fashion: A simple post of the album cover — a contemplative Styles in an upside down room — with the caption "Harry's House. May 20th."

The announcement came without any warning, naturally sending fans into a frenzy — including his Coachella duet partner , Shania Twain , who exclaimed "Oh my gosh I cannot wait!!"

The Title Came From More Time Spent At… Well, Harry's House

The pandemic-driven two years of downtime was the first time Styles had a break since his career began in 2010. Being home for an extended period proved revelatory for Styles; he found home in the physical sense, but also "in terms of a headspace or mental well-being," he told Better Homes & Gardens .

As the BH&G writer alluded, though, there are images of Harry's house sprinkled across the album, from references to the kitchen, "sitting in the garden" and "maple syrup, coffee, pancakes for two."

He Used A "Blank Canvas" To Create It

Styles' first and second albums, 2017's Harry Styles and 2019's Fine Line , paid homage to Joni Mitchell and David Bowie , both classic artists who inspired the singer.

But as detailed in Better Homes & Gardens , Styles opted to ignore his influences, cleaning his aural palette with classical music. In turn, he started anew with, as he put it, "a blank canvas.

Lead single "As It Was" indicated that the clean slate may result in a lighter melodic sense and brighter synth-pop production across Harry's House — something that was further teased when Styles performed the funked-up "Late Night Talking" during his Coachella headlining set. (He also debuted the melancholy, acoustic "Boyfriends," which was more reminiscent of the folk-inspired sounds from his self-titled LP.)

Though Styles hasn't confirmed any intentional relation, its title mirrors Mitchell's "Harry's House / Centerpiece" from her 1975 album The Hissing of Summer Lawns . In March, Mitchell's account tweeted Styles' album announcement and said "love the title."

He Teamed Up With His Right-Hand Men

Whatever Harry's House brings, fans who enjoyed Styles' first two albums will likely revel in this one too. That's because the star wrote and recorded nearly every song with Tyler Johnson and Thomas Hull (better known as Kid Harpoon), two of his closest collaborators on Harry Styles and Fine Line .

Johnson and Hull co-produced 10 of the 12 tracks on Fine Line , and Johnson co-wrote all but one of the songs on Harry Styles ("Sweet Creature," which Hull coincidentally co-wrote). Harry's House also features appearances from Styles' previous collaborators Mitch Rowland and Amy Allen, the latter of whom co-wrote his Fine Line hit "Adore You."

The Harry's House Tracklist Is Broken Into Two Parts

In yet another abrupt-yet-subtle social media post, Styles unveiled the Harry's House track list on Twitter on April 28. The 13 songs will be split into Side A and Side B.

One fan pointed out that the album's opener, "Music For A Sushi Restaurant" is "sooo billy joel of you" (a la Joel's "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant").

Others may have noticed that Styles continues his sly odes to fruit across his discography with "Grapejuice" ( Harry Styles featured a fan-favorite rocker titled "Kiwi"; Fine Line included both "Cherry" and the GRAMMY-winning "Watermelon Sugar").

Styles Considers It "By Far The Most Intimate" Album He's Made

Styles hinted to Better Homes & Gardens that while Harry's House "sounds like the biggest, and the most fun" of his albums thus far, he also revealed, "it's by far the most intimate."

Though he didn't elaborate on what exactly he meant by "intimate," Styles did open up about getting more comfortable with talking about sex. "I think I got to a place where I was like, why do I feel ashamed? I'm a 26-year-old man who's single — it's like, yes, I have sex."

He's Celebrating The Album's Release With Two "One-Night Only" Shows

On the night of the Harry's House release, Styles will perform the album live at UBS Arena at Belmont Park, New York. Four days later on May 24, he'll play another show at London's O2 Academy Brixton.

If you aren't in New York or London, never fear: Styles is continuing his Love On Tour trek in 2022. While it's unclear if he'll add Harry's House tracks to the set list, Styles will hit the UK and Europe in June and July, and Mexico and South America in November and December. In between, he'll play mini residencies in Toronto, New York, Austin, Chicago, and Los Angeles, the singer announced May 5.

This Is The Proudest He's Felt About An Album

As he explained to Better Homes & Gardens , Styles felt limitations with his first album because of the pressures to be taken seriously post-One Direction. With Fine Line , he said he was concerned with making "really big songs." Now, his inhibitions have lessened — and it's resulted in what he feels is his best work yet.

"This is kind of the proudest I've been of something I've made so far," Styles told Capital FM . "And I feel the most comfortable I've been with myself, and happiest with what I'm making, and the best I've felt about something that I'm making."

He continued, "I feel really happy at the moment. "It's the first time I feel like I'm making music, and putting music out, from a real place of personal freedom, and that is a really liberating place to be creating from. The process has easily been the most joyous of anything that I've experienced so far while making music, and I kind of want to continue that with putting it out."

If Styles' pride correlates to the music, Harry's House might just be his best work yet. We're happy to be invited over.

GRAMMY Rewind: Harry Styles Wins His First GRAMMY, Takes Home Best Pop Solo Performance For "Watermelon Sugar"

Photo: David O’Donohue

Meet Amy Allen, The Hitmaking Singer/Songwriter Behind Sabrina Carpenter's "Please Please Please" & More Pop Gems

Amy Allen has penned hits for stars like Halsey, Harry Styles, and Tate McRae, including two recent smashes from Sabrina Carpenter. As she embarks on her own artist journey, learn more about the GRAMMY-winner's already dazzling career.

Some artists are lucky enough to have a moment: a song of the summer, a radio hit, or a point at which their song dominates the pop conversation. Before even launching her own singing career, Amy Allen has done just that — multiple times.

In 2022, the Maine native contributed to hit songs from Harry Styles , Lizzo , Charli XCX , and King Princess; at the 2023 GRAMMYs, she was one of the inaugural nominees for Songwriter Of The Year, Non-Classical, and celebrated an Album Of The Year win alongside Styles thanks to her work on Harry's House . And as of press time, two songs she co-wrote with Sabrina Carpenter are in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart: "Espresso" and " Please Please Please ," the latter of which hit No. 1.

When you have a resume and catalog as impressive as Allen's, it's hard not to get stuck in a run of highlights — but Allen's writing style is so full of remarkable emotional depth and inevitable hooks that her life and career deserves further exploration. After binging on classic rock and performing in rock and bluegrass bands in her youth, Allen began writing songs for others in the mid 2010s and has only continued to expand her impact on audiences and collaborators alike.

"Amy is a once-in-a-lifetime writer and friend — it all comes to her very naturally and effortlessly," Carpenter recently told Variety . "She's super versatile: She can wear any hat and yet it still feels authentic. I've learned a lot from her and admire what an incredible collaborator she is."

Along the way, Allen has continued honing her skills as an artist in her own right, releasing a handful of EPs and singles since 2015, initially under the name Amy and the Engine. But on Sept. 6, she's ready to fully introduce herself with her debut album — fittingly titled Amy Allen .

Just after Allen celebrated her latest No. 1 and released her newest single, "even forever," GRAMMY.com rounded up the key details you need to know about the singer/songwriter's diverse musical background, from her advocacy for female creators to seeing Harry Styles sing a song she co-wrote to a massive audience.

Her Origin Story Features A Lot Of Car Talk

Allen's early musical growth relied on four-wheeled vehicles to drive the plot forward — in many different forms. Growing up in rural Maine meant long car rides to for school and family outings, which in turn meant a lot of time with the radio.

"My dad is the biggest classic rock fan, so since I was little, I spent hours every day listening to music in the car with him and my sisters," she told Variety earlier this year.

When it came time for one of her sisters to start a band, the elder Allen named it No U-Turn, setting the theme. When the band needed a new bassist, Amy took up the low end at just 8 years old, learning classic songs from the likes of Tom Petty and Rolling Stones . The band started collecting opening spots at a bar in Portland, Maine, and lasted until Allen was in high school and her sisters had left for college. In addition, she started playing in a bluegrass band called Jerks of Grass alongside her high school guitar teacher.

Eventually, Allen thought about moving on and changing course. "I went to nursing school at Boston College for two years, and within a month of getting there I was like, 'I made a big mistake,'" she continued. After moving over to the prestigious Berklee School of Music, Allen started a new project, yet again turning to vehicular terminology: Amy and the Engine, who would go on to open for the likes of Vance Joy and Kacey Musgraves . The project's timeless indie pop charm shone brightly on singles like "Last Forever" and the 2017 EP Get Me Outta Here!, fusing references ranging from the Cranberries to the Cure .

She's A Major Champion For Women In Music

Back in 2021, Allen pondered whether it was time to carve up one of America's most prominent monuments. "Can you imagine tits on Mount Rushmore/ And Ruth Bader Ginsburg from dynamite sticks?" she sang on "A Woman's World," a highlight from her 2021 solo EP AWW! . The song backs off from that explicit ask, but the low-slung waltz of ghostly piano and gentle acoustic guitar still subversively slices at traditional gender roles and power dynamics. 

And while the track may focus its first verse on the Notorious RBG, Allen designed it as a more approachable anthem. "I felt very proud of that song. And it's something that I love to play live, because I think that it's nice as a woman to give that moment to other women in the audience where I see them," she told The Line of Best Fit upon the EP's release.

Her solo work sits in a long line of female pop and rock stars looking to lift others up — with Allen's list of influences including everyone from the Carpenters and Pat Benatar to No Doubt , Hole , and Siouxsie and the Banshees. But she's also aware of the shortcomings in the industry when it comes to behind-the-scenes matters, with female songwriters representing a disproportionately small percentage of the industry and often at lower revenue than their male counterparts. 

"It's important to have more women writing and performing so that younger girls can be hearing that and really connecting with that and resonating with that, and then being inspired to do that themselves," she continued. "I'm really excited to hear what the next generation of singer songwriters creates, and I want to do my part in making sure that they're able to."

She Went Full Circle With Selena Gomez

Allen's emotionally salient and indelibly quirky songwriting with the Engine caught the attention of more than just adoring fans. While on a tour stop in New York, she connected with Scott Harris , a songwriter who has worked with the likes of Shawn Mendes , Camila Cabello , Niall Horan, and Meghan Trainor ; when Allen eventually moved to New York, she would take on some of Harris' writing sessions when he was in Los Angeles. One of those sessions spawned the first song she'd place with another artist: Selena Gomez 's "Back To You," which ended up on the soundtrack for the second season of Netflix's teen drama "13 Reasons Why" in 2018. 

"I grew up listening to Selena Gomez, and I know that she's going to be a pop icon forever," Allen told People in 2020. "She's awesome. I was so psyched…It definitely propelled my career in the pop writing field further."

Two years later, she would re-team with Gomez for "My Mind & Me," a single released alongside a documentary film of the same title following the impact of the star's diagnoses with lupus and bipolar disorder on her career. The single similarly offers an openhearted, empathetic look at big mental health struggles, this time in the form of a sweeping, cathartic power ballad driven by stumbling syllables and stair-step piano. 

The track was shortlisted for Best Original Song at the 2023 Academy Awards, charted in more than a dozen countries, and, perhaps most importantly, seemed to have made quite the connection with Gomez. "Honestly, it was therapeutic for me," the pop star and actress told Variety in 2022. "I felt super connected to what I was singing and what I was saying."

She Loves Seeing Her Collaborators Live

Songwriters often wind up hidden behind the scenes, unable to really gather the impact that their artistic expression is making on others. But thankfully, Allen has been able to catch a peek in on the arena-sized reactions for some of her biggest collaborators. 

One of Allen's most-played co-writes is "Adore You," a highlight from Harry Styles' 2019 album, Fine Line , which has nearly 1.7 billion streams on Spotify alone as of press time. The buoyant, slippery burst of Fleetwood Mac -indebted funk pop embodies the start of an infatuation, and fans similarly felt under the song's spell. And Allen finally got to see that feeling come to life at Styles' album release show at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles in 2019. 

"Watching Harry, I was really nervous because the album had only been out for a couple days and I wasn't sure if anybody would know that song," Allen told Variety in 2020. She also noted that the song was a hard turn from more heartbroken tracks she'd written for the likes of Halsey . "'Adore You' was my first feel-good song, so I'm psyched about that," she added.

Though not in person, Allen got a similar bolt of joy when she was able to watch Lizzo perform Styles' track for BBC Radio 1 in 2020. "I idolize Lizzo," Allen continued. "It really just goes to show that the right song can be performed by many different people." 

Little did Allen know that she'd get to celebrate a GRAMMY nomination and win alongside Lizzo and Styles, respectively, just three years later. She co-wrote "If You Love Me" from the flute-jamming pop star's 2022 record Special, which was nominated for Album Of The Year at the 2023 GRAMMYs, where Styles' Harry's House (which featured Allen's co-write "Matilda") won the coveted honor.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amy Allen (@amyallen)

She Shapeshifts Her Songwriting For Each Artist

When a songwriter has to split their tracks up between multiple different artists, it might be difficult to ensure that each track sounds appropriately fitted to each performer. For Allen, it all comes down to knowing when to follow the rules and when to break them. 

"Sometimes we'll be writing and someone will say, 'It should go straight to the chorus here,' and in my brain I'm like, 'But we need a pre-chorus!' — you know, following the ABCs of songwriting," she told Variety . "But I've really been trying over the last couple of years to deconstruct some of those — that you don't need to pull out all the tricks all the time. It can actually make the song more interesting."

In fact, it might come down to what she prioritizes when sitting down to write, rather than which rules to follow. While walking the red carpet for the 2021 Ivor Novello Awards for songwriting and composition, Allen explained her perspective on songwriting formulas to PRS For Music : "When I'm writing for myself, I usually start with the verse and move my way through, and lots of other times when I'm writing with another artist I make sure the chorus is bulletproof."

The GRAMMYs Are Helping Change Her Family's Perspective On Her Career

Allen earned her first GRAMMY nomination in 2022 for her work on Justin Bieber 's Justice , but her most meaningful nomination came a year later for Songwriter Of The Year, Non-Classical at the 65th Annual Awards ceremony (alongside Nija Charles , The-Dream , Laura Veltz , and Tobias Jesso, Jr. ). While Allen had a hard time contextualizing the recognition, it helped her loved ones better understand the impact of her career.

"I'm just so grateful…Even my closest family and friends, they're like, 'I've listened to this artist for so long, or I listened to this song on the radio, and I had no idea there was a team that helped make this happen,'" she told VERSED: The ASCAP Podcast in 2022. "People like me growing up in small towns, we don't know that being a songwriter for a career is an option… I watched the GRAMMYs when I was growing up, and if I had known that people were making great careers, I would've gotten on the track a lot earlier."

Though the inaugural award ultimately went to Jesso, Jr., Allen seems to agree that he's deserving of the honor — he's one of her collaborators on her upcoming album.

Maine Will Always Be Home — and An Inspiration

For those who haven't been to Maine, a quick look at Allen's social media will reveal just how stunning the American Northeast can be. Among TikToks promoting her music, Allen almost inevitably drops in a clip displaying the expansive natural beauty of her home state — whether she's on a rope swing over a dazzlingly blue pool of water, or dropping a front spin while skating on the ice, or watching the massive waves from her family home.

"POV: ur back home in maine and wondering why u ever left," she plastered over one particularly stunning TikTok montage of a dazzling day swimming amongst waterfalls. The only thing as beautiful as the scenery is the music behind it is an unreleased track about missing home — proof that Maine will always be part of her, and that she clearly made the correct choice in following her songwriting dreams.

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GRAMMY Rewind: Harry Styles Celebrates His Fellow Nominees (And His Biggest Fan) After Album Of The Year Win In 2023

Revisit the moment Harry Styles accepted the most coveted award of the evening for 'Harry's House' and offered a heartfelt nod to his competitors — Beyoncé, Adele, Lizzo, Coldplay and more.

After a wildly successful debut and sophomore record, you'd think it was impossible for Harry Styles to top himself. Yet, his third album, Harry's House , proved to be his most prolific yet.

The critically acclaimed project first birthed Styles' record-breaking, chart-topping single, "As It Was," then landed three more top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 with "Late Night Talking," "Music for a Sushi Restaurant" and "Matilda." The album and "As It Was" scored Styles six nominations at the 2023 GRAMMYs — and helped the star top off his massive Harry's House era with an Album Of The Year win.

In this episode of GRAMMY Rewind , revisit Styles' big moment from last year's ceremony, which was made even more special by his superfan, Reina Lafantaisie. Host Trevor Noah (who will return as emcee for the 2024 GRAMMYs ) handed the mic to Lafantaisie to announce Styles as the winner, and the two shared a celebratory hug before Styles took the mic.

"I've been so, so inspired by every artist in this category," said Styles, who was up against other industry titans like Beyoncé , Adele , Lizzo and Coldplay . "On nights like tonight, it's important for us to remember that there is no such thing as 'best' in music. I don't think any of us sit in the studio, making decisions based on what will get us [an award]."

Watch the video above to see Harry Styles' complete acceptance speech alongside his collaborators Kid Harpoon and Tyler Johnson . Check back to GRAMMY.com for more new episodes of GRAMMY Rewind, and be sure to tune into the 2024 GRAMMYs on Sunday, Feb. 4, airing live on the CBS Television Network (8 -11:30 p.m. LIVE ET/5-8:30 p.m. LIVE PT) and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs).

Here Are The Album Of The Year Nominees At The 2024 GRAMMYs

Photo: JMEnternational/Getty Images

Harry Styles' Biggest Songs: 10 Tracks That Showcase The Versatility & Creativity That Have Made Him A Star

Since his solo debut in 2017, Harry Styles has become one of pop's biggest names by pushing the boundaries of the genre. Dig into 10 songs that showcase Styles' musical genius, from smash hits like "As It Was" to beloved deep cuts like "Fine Line."

Throughout his career, Harry Styles has proven that his music defies categorization. From his poppier days with One Direction to the more rock- and funk-inspired sounds of his solo music, every song and album have been a testament to his ongoing evolution as an artist .

His three solo albums thus far — 2017's Harry Styles , 2019's Fine Line , and 2022's Harry's House — have explored soft rock, psychedelic pop, and synth-pop. With such genre-fluid diversity in his discography, there's something for everyone to indulge in.

Styles' genre-blending techniques have undeniably made him a household name. The past two years solidified that, whether through his 169-show Love On Tour or his Album Of The Year win for Harry's House at the 2023 GRAMMYs. 

Though Styles has remained relatively quiet since the Love On Tour wrapped in July, he surely has fans anticipating his next move. For now, take a look at 10 Harry Styles tracks that illustrate the versatility and creativity that's helped him go from boy band member to solo sensation.

"Over Again," Take Me Home (2013)

A deep cut from One Direction's second album, Take Me Home , "Over Again" features an impressive solo from a then-19-year-old Styles. This song takes listeners on a nostalgic journey, looking back to the happier days of an ill-fated relationship, yearning for the ability to rewind time to a point before the love story unraveled.

Styles' emotionally charged vocal delivery accentuates and intensifies the profound sense of melancholy that is being relayed in the song. The depth in Styles' voice invites the audience to connect and empathize with the song's heartbroken narrative — a trait that still permeates in his solo ballads today. 

"Clouds," FOUR (2014)

Styles highlights his vocal prowess in a different way on One Direction's youthful FOUR cut "Clouds." Not only did it feature extensive, powerful vocal runs, but it also showcased the rock sensibilities of his voice. "Clouds" diverted from 1D's traditional pop sound and ventured into a more guitar-driven style, incorporating rock elements and arguably foreshadowing the sounds of Styles' debut album released three years later.

"Sign of the Times," Harry Styles (2017)

Styles kicked off his solo journey in bold fashion: a nearly six-minute ballad. The cinematic, '70s rock-inspired "Sign of the Times" presented a stark departure from his previous work with One Direction, hinting that he was more than ready to evolve musically on his own.

The release of the song marked a turning point in Styles' career, enabling him to embrace a more mature sound and gain credibility as a solo artist. His continued exploration of genres is a trait that Styles has carried into his later projects, ultimately establishing his status as a genre-fluid artist.

"Kiwi," Harry Styles (2017)

One of Styles' boldest steps into the rock genre, "Kiwi" tells a story about a rebellious and free-spirited girl who captures Styles' attention, despite knowing she's no good for him. In this lively track, Styles trades polished pop for unfiltered rock vocals, showcasing an edgier side he hadn't displayed in his boy band days — both lyrically and sonically.

The song's dynamic energy is further amplified by the rich supply of classic rock-inspired guitar grooves. While Styles hasn't revisited the raw sound of "Kiwi" much since, it serves as a reminder that he can tackle any creative technique he desires.

"Watermelon Sugar," Fine Line (2019)

One could argue that "Watermelon Sugar" is a perfectly crafted pop song: refreshing guitar grooves, a lively instrumental, sultry harmonized vocals. In fact, it's so flawless, it earned Styles his first GRAMMY in 2021 for Best Pop Solo Performance.

That's just one way the Fine Line single marked a pivotal moment in Styles' career. It also became his first No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that he has staying power as a pop star in his own right. And as one of two songs with more than 2 billion Spotify streams alone, "Watermelon Sugar" has also proven to be a Harry Styles classic. 

"Falling," Fine Line (2019)

One of Styles' most gut-wrenching tracks, "Falling" offers an introspective take on heartbreak. The haunting piano-driven melody emphasizes the pain in Styles' voice as he realizes his harmful habits caused him to lose a lover.

The song's emotional transparency and stripped-down vocals make it one of his most emotionally mature tracks, as well as one of his most captivating. While the track is Styles' lowest-charting single to date (it reached No. 62 on the Hot 100), "Falling" has proven itself to be a fan favorite, with more than 1 billion streams on Spotify. 

"Fine Line," Fine Line (2019)

Despite being the title track, "Fine Line" isn't just a deep cut from Styles' acclaimed 2019 album, it's an outlier in his whole discography — but in a beautiful way. The song is largely instrumental, with a lonely, yet emotionally-charged energy that highlights Styles' stunning falsetto.

In an interview with Capital FM , Styles cited a connection between the song's lyrics and his feelings throughout the album-making process; with the closing lyrics echoing, "We'll be alright," the song sheds light on the apprehension that often accompanies embarking on a new creative journey. The message foreshadowed Styles' subsequent ventures after the record's release, including a step into acting and the exploration of a new sound in Harry's House .

"As It Was," Harry's House (2022)

The lead single for Harry's House , "As It Was" served as Styles' first plunge into the synth-pop genre, which carried throughout the project. Despite the track's buoyant melody, its true essence conveys a more gloomy narrative. Styles explores the idea that nothing remains the same once being put into the limelight — a poignant message from one of pop's biggest stars.

Along with introducing a new sound for Styles, the brilliantly juxtaposing track also cemented him as a bonafide superstar. After "As It Was" debuted at No. 1 on the Hot 100 in April 2022, it reigned for 15 weeks , marking the most for a British artist in the chart's history. It was also a chart titan in Styles' home country, becoming the longest-running No. 1 and best-selling single of 2022 on the UK Singles Chart. What's more, it helped Styles earn his first Record Of The Year GRAMMY nomination, and undoubtedly contributed to his Album Of The Year win at the 2023 GRAMMYs.

"Late Night Talking," Harry's House (2022)

Taking the synth-pop of "As It Was" into the '80s, "Late Night Talking" blends retro-inspired vocal distortions and groovy instrumentation. Yet, somehow, it has a timeless groove that still feels contemporary — a skill that has become a Styles trademark.

The single had big shoes to fill as it followed the smash hit "As It Was" but it fiercely proved that Styles' had room for multiple hit songs under his belt. "Late Night Talking" landed the No. 1 spot on Billboard's Pop Airplay Chart and No. 3 on the Hot 100 Chart.

"Matilda," Harry's House (2022)

One of Harry's House 's few somber tracks, "Matilda" instantly became another fan favorite in his catalog. As he gently sings over plucked guitar instrumentals, he comforts someone who feels out of place within their family at home ("You don't have to be sorry for leavin' and growin' up," he sings in the chorus).

While Styles has delivered plenty of tender moments, the storytelling and emotion of "Matilda" arguably helps it stand as his most thoughtful composition to date. Although it remains as an album cut, "Matilda" is further proof that Styles' has mastered the skill of making music that resonates with listeners — whether he's compelling them to shed tears or dance along.

Harry Styles' Sonic Evolution: How He Grew From Teen Pop Idol To Ever-Evolving Superstar

Photo: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

GRAMMY Rewind: Kendrick Lamar Honors Hip-Hop's Greats While Accepting Best Rap Album GRAMMY For 'To Pimp a Butterfly' In 2016

Upon winning the GRAMMY for Best Rap Album for 'To Pimp a Butterfly,' Kendrick Lamar thanked those that helped him get to the stage, and the artists that blazed the trail for him.

Updated Friday Oct. 13, 2023 to include info about Kendrick Lamar's most recent GRAMMY wins, as of the 2023 GRAMMYs.

A GRAMMY veteran these days, Kendrick Lamar has won 17 GRAMMYs and has received 47 GRAMMY nominations overall. A sizable chunk of his trophies came from the 58th annual GRAMMY Awards in 2016, when he walked away with five — including his first-ever win in the Best Rap Album category.

This installment of GRAMMY Rewind turns back the clock to 2016, revisiting Lamar's acceptance speech upon winning Best Rap Album for To Pimp A Butterfly . Though Lamar was alone on stage, he made it clear that he wouldn't be at the top of his game without the help of a broad support system. 

"First off, all glory to God, that's for sure," he said, kicking off a speech that went on to thank his parents, who he described as his "those who gave me the responsibility of knowing, of accepting the good with the bad."

Looking for more GRAMMYs news? The 2024 GRAMMY nominations are here!

He also extended his love and gratitude to his fiancée, Whitney Alford, and shouted out his Top Dawg Entertainment labelmates. Lamar specifically praised Top Dawg's CEO, Anthony Tiffith, for finding and developing raw talent that might not otherwise get the chance to pursue their musical dreams.

"We'd never forget that: Taking these kids out of the projects, out of Compton, and putting them right here on this stage, to be the best that they can be," Lamar — a Compton native himself — continued, leading into an impassioned conclusion spotlighting some of the cornerstone rap albums that came before To Pimp a Butterfly .

"Hip-hop. Ice Cube . This is for hip-hop," he said. "This is for Snoop Dogg , Doggystyle . This is for Illmatic , this is for Nas . We will live forever. Believe that."

To Pimp a Butterfly singles "Alright" and "These Walls" earned Lamar three more GRAMMYs that night, the former winning Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song and the latter taking Best Rap/Sung Collaboration (the song features Bilal , Anna Wise and Thundercat ). He also won Best Music Video for the remix of Taylor Swift 's "Bad Blood." 

Lamar has since won Best Rap Album two more times, taking home the golden gramophone in 2018 for his blockbuster LP DAMN ., and in 2023 for his bold fifth album, Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers .

Watch Lamar's full acceptance speech above, and check back at GRAMMY.com every Friday for more GRAMMY Rewind episodes. 

10 Essential Facts To Know About GRAMMY-Winning Rapper J. Cole

• 1 Everything We Know About Harry Styles' 'Harry's House'
• 2 Meet Amy Allen, The Hitmaking Singer/Songwriter Behind Sabrina Carpenter's "Please Please Please" & More Pop Gems
• 3 GRAMMY Rewind: Harry Styles Celebrates His Fellow Nominees (And His Biggest Fan) After Album Of The Year Win In 2023
• 4 Harry Styles' Biggest Songs: 10 Tracks That Showcase The Versatility & Creativity That Have Made Him A Star
• 5 GRAMMY Rewind: Kendrick Lamar Honors Hip-Hop's Greats While Accepting Best Rap Album GRAMMY For 'To Pimp a Butterfly' In 2016

Harry Styles - Biography

"you're never going to get used to walking into a room and having people scream at you," says harry styles. .

Even those who have never heard of One Direction are probably still familiar Harry Styles. The 29-year-old is one of the biggest musicians in the world, having headlined Coachella in 2022 and performed a sold out global tour.

When was Harry Styles born?

Harry Edward Styles was born on February 1, 1994, in Evesham, Worcestershire. When he was seven, his parents divorced and Harry and his older sister Gemma were brought up in the beautiful village of Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, by their mum Anne.

"That was a really weird time," he later recalled. "I remember crying about it. I didn't really get what was going on properly. I was just sad that my parents wouldn't be together anymore".

Harry has remained incredibly close to his mum, who happily went on to remarry. "Sometimes, he phones up to five times a day," she has said. "When there’s a time difference, he tends to text saying, ‘I love you, Mum,’ or ‘I miss you’. He’s still my little boy.”

Was Harry Styles on X Factor?

Before his life changed forever on The X Factor Harry had already developed a keen interest in music as the lead singer of a school band called White Eskimo.  But by the time the X Factor auditions came round in 2010, Harry, then 16, had just finished his GCSE exams, and planned to return to college in September to study law, sociology and business – but, of course, that was not to be.

Joined by his supportive mum, stepfather Robin and sister, Harry auditioned as a solo act for the hit show, singing 'Isn't She Lovely' by Stevie Wonder. He impressed two of the three judges  – Nicole Scherzinger and Simon Cowell – and made it through to the next round. Like his future band mates, Harry failed to progress into the category for solo males though, and his X Factor dream appeared all but over. 

But then guest judge Nicole suggested putting five of the 'rejects' into a band. The rest, as they say, is history. 

Was Harry Styles in One Direction?

It was Harry who came up with the name One Direction, and just two weeks after they were put together, the boys performed their first song as a group – an acoustic version of Torn . They were an instant hit with the British public and ended up finishing in third place.

Immediately after The X Factor , Harry signed up to Simon's Syco Records label, along with the four other hopefuls - Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne and Louis Tomlinson. In September 2011, the boys released their debut single, What Makes You Beautiful . It entered the UK charts at No. 1 as the most pre-ordered Sony Music Entertainment single in history.

It was by no means the last record they would set. After signing with Columbia Records in the States, 1D released the track in America in February 2012 – and their domination of the US began.

Their first album, Up All Night , was released globally at the start of 2012. It became the UK's fastest-selling debut album and topped the charts in 16 countries – including the US. One Direction had become the first British group in US chart history to enter at number one with a debut album, securing their place in the Guinness Book of World Records. 

In the years after, they were unstoppable – they have sold 7.6 million albums and 26 million singles in the US, becoming one of the best-selling boy bands of all time with seven Brit Awards, seven American Music Awards, six Billboard Music Awards, and four MTV Video Music Awards.

They went on indefinite hiatus in 2016.

Is Harry Styles a solo act?

Harry released his first solo single, 'Sign of the Times,' in 2017 and in May of that year debuted his self-titled first album. He released his second, Fine Line, in 2019 and his third, Harry's House in 2022. Harry's House won  Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album at the 65th Grammy Awards, and Album of the Year at 43rd Brit Awards.

Who is Harry Styles dating?

Making almost as many headlines as the band was Harry himself. Towards the end of 2011 Harry, then 17, began dating Xtra Factor host Caroline Flack , some 15 years  his senior. The couple ignored the criticism and were together for about three months before splitting up in January 2012. Harry spoke out on Twitter to refute claims that he was the one who ended relationship. 

"Please know I didn't 'dump' Caroline," he tweeted. "This was a mutual decision. She is one of the kindest, sweetest people I know. Please respect that."

Nevertheless, his reputation as a ladies' man was established and since then the tattooed star has been romantically linked to a host of beautiful women, from Cara Delevingne and Rita Ora to Made in Chelsea 's Caggie Dunlop and actress Emily Atack.

At the end of 2012, Harry began stepping out with pop princess Taylor Swift. The high-profile couple went public with their romance in November, and their relationship very quickly progressed. For Taylor's 23rd birthday – on December 13 – Harry whisked her off to Cheshire to meet his family and enjoy a mini break in the Lake District. 

The lovebirds jetted to New York for New Year's Eve, followed by a holiday together in the Caribbean but it was there their romance abruptly ended.

From 2017 to 2018, the singer was in a relationship with French-American model Camille Rowe, and from January 2021 to November 2022, he was in a relationship with actress and director Olivia Wilde.

 What films has Harry Styles been in?

Harry is also an accomplished actor, making his debut in Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk  in 2017. He made his Marvel debut in Eternals , in a post-credits scene, and also appeared in Don't Worry Darling, and My Policeman.

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Harry Styles Height, Age, Girlfriend, Wife, Family, Biography & More

Some Lesser Known Facts About Harry Styles

• Does Harry Styles drink alcohol?: Yes
• Harry was raised in the beautiful village of Holmes Chapel in Cheshire. The village is 21 miles south of Manchester.
• At the age of seven, Harry’s parents divorced. He said of the experience to The Sun: “That was quite a weird time. I remember crying about it. I didn’t really get what was going on properly, I was just sad that my parents wouldn’t be together anymore.”
• When Harry was 12 years old, he started dating a girl named Emilie, who was his first girlfriend.
• Harry’s stepdad is called Robin. He said he was “really pleased” when Robin proposed to his mom.
• Harry really loves getting naked. He said: “Stripping off is very liberating, I feel so free.”
• Harry did not want to be a singer. Before he took part in The X Factor he had ambitions to be a lawyer.
• There was a 15-year age gap between Harry and Caroline Flack, his ex-girlfriend – a relationship that sparked controversy in media.
• At the time of the formation of One Direction, Harry was the youngest member of the Band.
• He is a huge fan of Manchester United Football Club.
• Harry hates to see snakes. Harry suffers from Ophidiophobia (a fear of Snakes).
• Harry’s motto in life is “work hard, play hard, be kind.”

References/Sources: [ + ]

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Harry Styles and Paul Mescal Are One and the Same

There is a certain kind of man who thinks sports shorts are acceptable outside the gym when worn with a knowing logo tee or hoodie, ribbed socks, and gently bruised “fashion” trainers. Harry Styles and Paul Mescal are those men. Both performers wear their alternative PE kits with cropped mullet haircuts that are almost woman repellers, but will, of course, never be, because they both represent the peak of internet boyfriend-dom .

When in sports dad mode, Styles and Mescal are not as picky about the brands on their backs that will inevitably get pored over by, well, us. Harry, for example, has been known to swap his Adidas three-stripe thigh-grazers for Under Armour versions, which seems unfathomable for someone in Alessandro Michele’s inner circle. But when he’s not making feather boas a thing or singing about watermelons in sequined jumpsuits, Styles is just a regular guy trying to Lime bike to Hampstead Heath in the shade of his Augusta National Golf Club cap and Gucci Gg0912S 001 sunglasses. As for Paul Mescal’s O’Neills GAA short-shorts? Well, they don’t deserve any more column inches.

Styles’s incognito mode, which very much spells out Harry Styles, in Soho this week.

The reason why these Gucci ambassadors get away with wearing clothes to pop to the Co-op and pick up a couple of tinnies and some prawn cocktail crisps is because they are hot. The man from Baby Reindeer , who was famous for all of two minutes, would not be given the same free pass wearing cotton boxers to a fashion presentation . Paul and Harry also enjoy the level of fame where they are (frequently) gifted luxury goods that can elevate even the most scuffed Vans X Kunichi Nomura Comfycush lace-ups. When you’ve got a JW Anderson Bumper bag slung over your shoulder (Harry) or The Row’s Margaux carryall glued to your hand (Harry again), all is forgiven. Paul’s equivalent of a Bottega Cassette might be a Sweetgreen paper bag, but that’s deemed OK, because his thighs are on display, the vegetable receptacle matches his trainers, and he is Irish.

The wired headphones and Sweetgreen paper bag matching Mescal’s Adidas sneakers mean this image will forever be etched onto the public psyche.

As show season approaches and Styles is tempted out of seclusion to support Michele’s Valentino debut, while Mescal continues to play the Gucci poster boy for new creative director Sabato De Sarno, we’re likely to see directional tailoring trump their Lululemons. Look closely though, and the leg-lengthening high waistbands will remain, while the cut of their scoop-neck tees and open shirts will be left just so to reveal a glimpse of Connell’s chain. Those boyish crops? Still as gently mussed up as ever. Once an indie gym rat, always an indie gym rat—just with the kind of glint in the eye that’s paid for by a brand.

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Children's Books About Zendaya and Harry Styles Are Available for Preorder Now — And They're Just $6

While targeted for 4-year-olds to 8-year-olds, these charming books are perfect for fans of all ages.

Harry Styles and Zendaya have massive talent, undeniable fashion sense and serious star power, but that's not all they have in common. Now, both of the artists are subjects in the latest release of Little Golden Book Biographies. 

We believe no one is too young to become a fan of Styles or Zendaya. While you may have already introduced your kid to Styles' hit tunes or Zendaya's roles in the Spider-Man franchise  — now, with the help of Golden Books, you can share the stories about their rises to fame, too. Perhaps the best part about these illustrated books is that they're each just $6.

Harry Styles: A Little Golden Book Biography  comes out on September 3, 2024, and is now available for preorder.

Harry Styles: A Little Golden Book Biography

To Styles' birth in England to his audition on X Factor and breaking out on his solo career, this biography is informative and beautifully illustrated.

Also hitting shelves on September 3, 2024, is  Zendaya: A Little Golden Book Biography , which is now available for preorder at Amazon.

Zendaya: A Little Golden Book Biography

Starting with Zendaya's early career, even before her work at Disney, and her transformation into a global star, this illustrated biography covers it all.

Each picture book biography has 24 pages filled with easy-to-read personal stories and colorful illustrations.

Little Golden Books is no stranger to telling the story of our favorite stars. Other Little Golden Books biographies feature  Beyoncé ,  Simone Biles ,  Dolly Parton  and Willie Nelson . Taylor Swift's Little Golden Book  quickly sold out after it was released last year, so we recommend securing your Zendaya's or Styles' biography (or both) while you can.

While the Little Golden Book biographies are technically geared toward young children, we think any fan of Harry Styles or Zendaya would want this true tale on their bookshelf. Buy a copy for yourself or your little one today. 

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• Harry Styles