New Listen Music Review: Harry Styles – Watermelon Sugar
I almost don’t know where to begin with this one. I’m probably the only person alive, at least in this industry, that doesn’t know everything about Harry Styles. I know he was in One Direction. I know he has the look, the star quality and millions of fans that worship him. I’ve heard that he’s this generation’s George Michael/Simon LeBon/Ricky Martin/Justin Timberlake/Etc.
Now I know why.
Full Disclosure: This is my first deep dive into a review of the music of Harry Styles, with this song from the Fine Line album. But when I came back to the surface I was mesmerized by his aura. He does have that star quality about him. It sort of reminds me (I’m dating myself here) of how Duran Duran’s Simon LeBon or George Michael used to capture everyone’s attention in the room, simply by walking in. It’s almost as if a bright light turns on when he is around.
With his latest single Watermelon Sugar, Harry Styles makes the anticipation for his second solo album, Fine Line, expand even further. He has the swag and vocal control like J.T. but also the serious sounding vocal tone and musical swing like Ricky Martin. Think Saint Tropez but with all four of those artists I mentioned contributing their best characteristics. He really does seem to have it all.
From a production and musical standpoint, Styles and his team have put together a well produced track with Watermelon Sugar. The build up from the slightly panned, quickly strummed guitar and soft tremolo’d electric piano, sit perfectly behind Styles’ vocal that invites you into the rest of the song. Another interesting thing they did was not explode the song at the first chorus. They bring in the subtle percussion only to see the song take full flight at the second verse. Which is immediate after the first chorus. Great choices all around.
By the time the horn section comes in, to outro Watermelon Sugar, you’ve already been had and surely want to hear it again. Well, that’s how it went for me anyway. If you haven’t heard Watermelon Sugar by now (which I’m sure you have: read my intro), go and give this one a serious listen. The song has everything a Global Pop Hit should have. Strong production, great musicianship & songwriting and a global superstar on vocals.
This song certainly checks all of those boxes.
-Tommy Marz
You can follow Tommy on Twitter and let him know what you think.
For More On Harry Styles, Visit:
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER |