Harry Styles

Just as Take That's Robbie Williams did years earlier, Harry Styles shows that there is life after a boy band. After being discovered on the TV talent show The X Factor, he was part of the immensely popular One Direction from 2010 to 2016. The quintet scored worldwide hits with songs like What Makes You Beautiful, Live While You're Young, Best Song Ever, Story Of My Life and Drag Me Down. After six years, One Direction is (probably) calling it quits for good and the members are scattering.

Born on February 1, 1994, Harry Styles wastes no time. In 2017, his self-titled debut album hit record stores. The singer surprised everyone with this remarkably mature album. The powerful songs reveal influences from Britpop, new wave, disco, psychedelic rock, and classic pop music, among others. He scored a global hit with "Sign of the Times." That same year, 2017, Harry Styles made his acting debut as Alex in the war film "Dunkirk." After the much-lamented end of One Direction, Harry Styles thus made a soft landing as a singer and actor.

He can also be admired later in albums like Don't Worry Darling (2022) and My Policeman (2022). However, Harry Styles makes it clear in interviews that music is his priority. This is also evident on the albums that followed his debut: Fine Line (2019) and Harry's House (2022). For the latter, the singer even received a Grammy in the "Album of the Year" category. While his past as a boy band member can be a stigma, Harry Styles manages to convince even the most critical music lovers of his musical talent. For many, Harry's House is even one of the top albums of 2022. He receives numerous compliments for the candid lyrics and variety of styles from which he draws. His pop star status will gain additional shine when he makes a guest appearance at Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks' performance in London's Hyde Park in the summer of 2024. The death of One Direction member Liam Payne in October 2024 put a definitive end to any chance of a comeback for his old band.