“Sign of the Times” marked the beginning of a bold new chapter for Harry Styles, introducing the English singer-songwriter as a solo artist with a powerful and emotionally rich sound.
Released on April 7, 2017, the song served as the lead single from his self-titled debut album and immediately established him as more than just a former member of One Direction.
Co-written by Harry Styles, Jeff Bhasker, Mitch Rowland, Ryan Nasci, and Alex Salibian, the six-minute epic draws inspiration from classic 1970s rock and soaring pop ballads.
Its gradual build, cinematic instrumentation, and heartfelt vocal performance create an unforgettable listening experience that showcases Styles’ artistic maturity.
The song received widespread critical acclaim, with Rolling Stone naming it the Best Song of 2017, while its visually stunning music video—filmed on Scotland’s Isle of Skye—earned the Brit Award for British Artist Video of the Year.
Combining breathtaking production, poignant songwriting, and one of Harry Styles’ finest vocal performances, “Sign of the Times” remains a defining modern classic and a standout moment in his solo career.
