Harry Styles was one of the biggest names in boybands since Justin Timberlake. Now that One Direction is on hiatus, Harry is ready to pursue his own music career.
Here’s how Harry Styles became a music superstar in the first place.
1. He fronted a local band.
When Harry was in school, he sang lead in a band called White Eskimo. They performed at school concerts and around their hometown of Chesire, England. They even won a local Battle of the Bands competition.
Starting locally will help you gain the performance experience you may not get if you were to head straight to Hollywood or Nashville. Working with a band will also enable you to learn from more experienced musicians.
Here’s a clip of White Eskimo performing at a school concert.
2. He auditioned for a national music competition.
In 2010, Harry took a step back from White Eskimo. He decided to audition for The X Factor UK as a solo act. This bold move was the first major step in Harry’s music career. Performing on television gave him a national audience.
There are reality music competition shows for every kind of act. Even just auditioning for the fun of it will give you valuable experience and exposure. You never know who may be watching.
Check out Harry’s X Factor audition below.
3. He embraced the opportunity to join a band created by producers.
As a solo artist, Harry didn’t make it very far in the X Factor competition. However, guest judge Nicole Scherzinger of the Pussycat Dolls suggested that he and four other contestants join together to form a group act. The five singers took her advice, and, with some help from judge Simon Cowell, One Direction was born.
When you audition for a music producer, he or she may have a different vision in mind for your career than you do. However, you must remember that these professionals know what they’re doing. It may be better to follow their plan until you have enough success to branch out on your own.
Watch One Direction’s first performance as a group.
4. He helped write songs for his band.
Many pop artists rely on professional songwriters to pen every word they sing. However, by helping with One Direction’s writing process, Harry made music that helped him form a stronger bond with his fans. He co-wrote hits such as “Perfect” and “Story Of My Life.”
Writing your own songs allows you to share your heart with your fans instead of just sharing your voice. It also increases your credibility as a musician.
Here’s one of the songs Harry helped write for One Direction.
5. He befriended and collaborated with other musicians.
Harry uses his fame to connect with other musicians in the same positions. He often turns his friendships into collaborations. Ed Sheeran penned several songs for One Direction. Harry himself has helped write for Ariana Grande, Meghan Trainor, and Alex & Sierra.
Befriending other musicians is key to making it in the music industry. Friends help friends. You’ll get back what you give to others.
Ariana Grande performed the song Harry wrote for her at the 2015 Grammys.
In the summer of 2016, it was reported that Harry Styles signed a solo record deal with One Direction’s former label. With a new movie about to be released and new music in the works, Harry is forging his own path back to the top of the charts.
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Kristen Harris enjoys listening to a wide range of music, from Taylor Swift to, on occasion, Celtic instrumental. She also spends her time writing, reading, and baking.
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