Across campus, students are excited about Harry Styles’ return to the spotlight. After four years without new music, Styles is back with a new single, a highly anticipated album, and an upcoming tour that includes 30 shows at Madison Square Garden, which are his only dates in the United States.
Styles last released a studio album in 2022 with Harry’s House, an era that influenced pop culture and acted as a major moment in his solo career. Now, students say this return feels different. It is more emotional and reflective, tied closely to growing up alongside his music.
Source: Instagram, @harrystyles
Freshman Nikki Kane said Styles’ songwriting has always connected with listeners entering adulthood.
“I think that Harry’s music is relatable for a more mature audience, starting in later high school and college,” said Kane. “His choice in words, his metaphors, and his emotional maturity connect with people our age.”
Kane said the anticipation surrounding this album feels larger than his previous music.
“I think that because of artists who could be viewed as ‘placeholders’ in the pop culture zeitgeist,” said Kane, “His return could be more highly anticipated, because of how record-breaking Harry’s House was.”
Senior Isabel O’Connell said Styles’ career has unfolded alongside his audience. His audience has grown up with his evolving music.
“We subconsciously grew up with him and watched his music progress from the One Direction X Factor audition to where he is today,” said O’Connell. “It shows the transition from being kids to moving into our adult years.”
She said the four-year break has made this era feel especially meaningful.
“I think given the length of the break, he had the opportunity to never put out music again,” said O’Connell. “The fact that he still is makes me feel like this upcoming music is going to be really special.”
Students also said Styles’ sound and image appear to be maturing as he grows older.
“I think his sound and image has matured significantly,” said O’Connell. “The last time he put out an album he was in his mid-20s, and now he’s in his 30s, which feels like a big shift.”
Freshman Erica Dellaglio described the new era as calmer while still staying true to who Styles has always been.
“His sound feels more mature and emotional,” said Dellaglio. “It feels more timeless compared to Harry’s House, which was very loud and upbeat.”
One of the most talked about parts of Styles’ return is his upcoming tour. His decision to perform 30 shows at Madison Square Garden has become a major point of conversation among students and people in Gen Z.
“Madison Square Garden, the most famous arena in the world, is no easy feat,” said Kane. “His decision to host 30 shows displays that there is a testament to the level of fame and respect his music has gained.”
Dellaglio said the residency illustrates the loyalty and range of his fanbase.
“Harry Styles has an extremely loyal fanbase that spans years and generations,” said Dellaglio. “The fact that my mom, sister, and I all love his music really shows how diverse it is.”
Students described this new chapter of Styles’ career as both emotional and courageous.
“I would describe this new era as courageous,” said O’Connell. “Continuing to put out music after everything he’s experienced makes a huge difference to a lot of people.”
As Styles steps back into the spotlight, students say his music continues to offer comfort and nostalgia while reflecting their own growth. To others, making this return feels less like a release and more like a shared moment.
“I love getting to grow up and watch all the different eras of his style and music,” said Dellaglio. “I can’t wait to hear his new music as a college student.”
