Harry Styles Just Dropped His First Song In Four Years And Everyone Has Opinions

Four years is an eternity in pop music. Artists who disappear for that long risk being forgotten entirely, replaced by whoever’s dominating streaming playlists this week.

But when you’re Harry Styles, that kind of absence just builds anticipation. His return wasn’t announced through traditional channels; instead, cryptic posters started appearing in major cities worldwide featuring crowds of people and the phrase “WE BELONG TOGETHER,” accompanied by mysterious footage on his website.

Now the wait is over. Styles has released Aperture, his first single in four years and the lead track from his upcoming album Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally, which drops on March 6.

The song represents a significant departure from his previous work, trading polished pop for something grittier and more experimental. At five minutes long, it’s hardly radio-friendly, and that seems entirely intentional.

Aperture draws heavy inspiration from LCD Soundsystem, leaning into minimalist electronic production with dance and house influences that build toward a cathartic chorus where Styles repeats that teased “We Belong Together” lyric.

The title itself, referring to the opening in a camera lens that lets in light, feels symbolic of what Styles is attempting: capturing a fleeting moment, specifically the euphoric chaos of dancing in a nightclub surrounded by friends and strangers alike.

Critics and fans have wasted no time sharing their takes, and the consensus seems clear: this is different, and most people are here for it.

The wait is finally over

Instagram/harrystyles

Given the announced Together, Together. Tour later this year, this song will likely translate into an anthemic live experience that thrives in stadium settings.

Critical reception has been positive, with reviewers praising Styles’ willingness to experiment beyond his established pop sound. The Independent’s Roisin O’Connor gave the song four stars out of five, describing the tune as “a sprawling five minutes that shifts and evolves in a way that mirrors one of those heady nights out – no plans made, anything could happen.”

The Guardian’s Michael Cragg, who also gave ‘Aperture’ four stars, wrote, “Unsure whether it’s coming (up) or going (down), Aperture grapples for a happy medium and finds its own safe space."

NME’s Rhian Daly also gave the song a four-star rating. He said, “Aperture’ is an exercise in letting things grow – a gradual lift that, over five minutes, gently reels you in with layers that ebb and flow, swell and subside in just the right moments. It’s dancefloor-ready – not for a short, sharp burst of movement, but a measured marathon night out.”

“If this is an indicator of the tone of the rest of the album, I’d say Styles’ creative risk into this new genre will play out well for him,” said CLASH’s Amrit Virdi. She gave the song an eight out of 10 rating.

Anticipation in the Music Industry

According to music industry expert Dr. David Meyer, the anticipation surrounding Harry Styles' return is a strategic move in today's fast-paced music environment.

He notes that artists who maintain a degree of mystery can create buzz and engagement, drawing listeners back into their world.

"In a market saturated with content, less can often be more," Dr. Meyer explains, emphasizing that Styles' absence likely heightened fan excitement.

Effective marketing strategies, especially those that use social media to create intrigue, can keep an artist relevant even during lengthy breaks.

Fans are sharing their reactions to 'Aperture.'

Fan reactions on social media have been equally enthusiastic. Since ‘Aperture’ dropped earlier today (January 23), Harry Styles fans have been sharing their initial reaction and thoughts about the track via social media, and the consensus is that it’s a massive tune.

One person said, “This is what Aperture feels like for me,” referencing the Jon Hamm dancing meme. “How it feels listening to Aperture by Harry Styles,” a second person wrote, along with a GIF of a person floating.

"I've heard enough."

A third person added, “I’ve heard enough,” and edited Styles’ album, covering it with Grammy Awards.

"I haven’t even processed what he’s saying, BUT I’M VIBING."

“The genuine shock that went through my body hearing Harry’s voice on 'aperture' like I haven’t even processed what he’s saying BUT I’M VIBING,” a fourth person commented.

Imagine that feeling!

A fifth person shared, “Riding into the sunset with your head out the window while listening to Aperture.”

That SpongBob floating meme is the only way to properly describe how Aperture makes this fan feel

“How Aperture by Harry Styles got me feeling right now,” someone else reacted.

Beautiful feeling!

“Me and Aperture by Harry Styles,” another person commented.

The club is calling

“Harry Styles really wants me to be at the club #aperture,” a fan responded.

Styles’ pivot toward dance-influenced experimental pop represents a genuine creative risk, especially for someone who could have easily churned out another album of radio-ready hits.

Aperture suggests he’s more interested in artistic evolution than commercial safety, which critics seem to appreciate, and fans are embracing enthusiastically.

Whether this sound defines the entire upcoming album remains to be seen, but as a comeback statement, it’s bold and uncompromising.

What’s your take on the new direction?

Musicologist Dr. Susan Rogers highlights the importance of artistic evolution in Styles' work. She asserts that fans expect growth and new sounds from artists after a hiatus.

"Styles has always pushed boundaries, and his return is likely a fascinating blend of his past influences and contemporary trends, which is crucial for maintaining relevance," she explains.

Furthermore, she emphasizes the need for artists to engage with their audience by not only releasing new music but also sharing insights into their creative process.

This transparency fosters a deeper connection with fans, encouraging loyalty and support.

Building Healthier Patterns

As Harry Styles makes his long-awaited return, it’s clear that a strategic approach to marketing and audience engagement plays a pivotal role in his comeback.

Experts like Dr. David Meyer and Dr. Susan Rogers stress that maintaining anticipation and showcasing artistic evolution are critical for an artist's success.

By effectively blending mystery with a genuine connection to his audience, Styles exemplifies how modern artists can navigate the complexities of the music industry while keeping their fanbase engaged and excited.