Released on November 2, 2017, the BBC Music video of “Sign of the Times” marked Harry Styles’ transition from boyband sensation to serious solo artist. This debut single topped the UK charts and was named Rolling Stone’s Best Song of 2017. The performance was part of the exclusive Harry Styles at the BBC special in Manchester. Directed by Richard Valentine and hosted by Nick Grimshaw, the broadcast featured a humorous segment where Styles worked as a bingo caller, offering his album to unimpressed retirement home seniors.
Trading his teen-pop past for a mature 1970s-rock aesthetic, Styles appeared on a dark, moody soundstage in a sharp, made-for-him suit. Dramatic flaring lights illuminated his intense, physical vocal delivery as he gripped the microphone stand. The performance was bolstered by a phenomenal live backing band and harmonizing vocalists. Cinematic camera work captured the magic, alternating between awe-struck sweeping shots of the studio audience and tight, emotional close-ups. This incredible visual and musical rebirth is captured beautifully in the mesmerizing performance below.
Unlike highly polished studio tracks, this live performance boldly showcased his raw power, pitch control, and endearing vocal texture. Fans appreciate his ability to sing without heavy processing, finding beauty in the natural cracks in his voice during the soaring climax. The Music Man community of music lovers might remember how this talent won over many skeptics. One viewer admitted, “Never been a fan but I have to admit this is really good. Excuse me while I pick my jaw up from the floor.” Another fan celebrated this authenticity, noting, “He can sing without Autotune. He can sing live. And this Song is an hymn.”
Despite overwhelming critical acclaim, the song was famously shut out of the 2018 Grammy Awards, sparking long-standing frustration. Yet, the video’s massive engagement, boasting over 166 million views, proves its cultural footprint outweighs industry trophies. As one commenter pointed out, “I still can’t believe how this masterpiece didn’t get even a Grammy nomination. Much much much better than “despacito” and “shape of you.”” Fortunately, this track continues to reach new listeners today.
Recently, the iconic ballad has experienced a major cultural renaissance thanks to its powerful placement in the film adaptation of Project Hail Mary. The song provides immense cinematic weight, improving the stunning IMAX experience and perfectly complementing Sandra Hüller’s moving performance. Hearing the soaring chorus echo through a massive cinema has given the track an entirely new life, transforming it from a beloved pop-rock hit into a sweeping sci-fi anthem that lands deeply with long-time devotees and brand-new listeners alike.
This cinematic revival has thrilled the community. One fan perfectly encapsulated the excitement, stating, “I’m so glad this song is being re-discovered because of PHM. It’s a modern anthem masterpiece.” Ultimately, the legacy of “Sign of the Times” is undeniable. Whether experienced through its initial 2017 television debut on that moody BBC soundstage or during its breathtaking rebirth in cinemas worldwide, the track remains a definitive, generational triumph that will captivate audiences for decades to come.