Harry Styles Dominates Grammys 2021: Iconic Performance, Bold Fashion, and a Major Win for “Watermelon Sugar”

The 2021 Grammy Awards kicked off with an undeniable burst of energy and iconic style, largely thanks to global superstar Harry Styles. Setting the tone for an unforgettable night, Styles delivered a mesmerizing performance of his smash hit “Watermelon Sugar,” immediately becoming one of the most talked-about moments of the ceremony. His bold fashion choices, including a daring bare-chested look revealing his distinctive tattoos and an array of flamboyant boas, solidified his status not just as a music sensation, but as a true fashion trailblazer. The night culminated in a significant victory for Styles, as he took home the coveted award for Best Pop Solo Performance for “Watermelon Sugar,” marking a triumphant highlight in his flourishing solo career.

UPDATE: Harry Styles’ exceptional talent and captivating stage presence were rightfully recognized at the 2021 Grammy Awards, where he triumphed in the Best Pop Solo Performance category for “Watermelon Sugar.” This win underscored the massive commercial and critical success of the track and further cemented his position as a dominant force in contemporary pop music. ORIGINAL: Harry Styles officially opened the 2021 Grammy Awards with a sizzling performance of his chart-topping anthem “Watermelon Sugar,” instantly captivating audiences worldwide. Among those mesmerized was fellow Grammy nominee and pop sensation Billie Eilish, who was visibly enjoying and bopping along to the infectious beat from her spot in the socially distanced crowd. Her enthusiastic reaction, caught on camera, perfectly encapsulated the collective excitement for Styles’ dynamic opening act.

billie eilish and harry styles supporting each other at the grammys pic.twitter.com/u0PeJci2h6

— zombie eilish (@yearnforagonyy) March 15, 2021

The Electrifying Performance and Iconic Style

For his highly anticipated opening performance, Harry Styles commanded the stage in a stunning full leather ensemble, which featured a sultry collared jacket worn daringly open, perfectly complemented by matching slacks. The 27-year-old singer and actor confidently went shirtless underneath this designer look, offering a clear view of his distinctive body art, including his iconic butterfly chest tattoo and other intricate stomach ink. His stage presence was electrifying as he danced around with unparalleled charisma, a vibrant green boa dramatically wrapped around his neck, adding a theatrical flair that has become synonymous with his unique aesthetic. This bold choice in attire, combined with his energetic delivery of “Watermelon Sugar,” set an incredibly high bar for the evening. Following his unforgettable kick-off, the Grammys broadcast continued with performances from 22 other phenomenal artists, including star-studded collaborations like Cardi B with Megan Thee Stallion, as well as captivating sets from Post Malone, BTS, Doja Cat, Taylor Swift, and many more, all striving to match the initial impact made by Styles.

A Night of Glamour: Red Carpet Fashion and Cultural Impact

Harry Styles’ fashion journey at the 2021 Grammys began even before he hit the stage, with a memorable appearance on the socially-distanced red carpet. There, he sported a chic plaid blazer paired with an incredibly long and striking purple boa – a different color from his performance accessory, showcasing his commitment to vibrant, expressive style. This bold choice immediately drew attention, highlighting his influential role in redefining masculine fashion norms and promoting gender fluidity in celebrity wardrobes. His willingness to experiment with feathers, pearls, and traditionally feminine silhouettes has not only cemented his status as a style icon but has also sparked important conversations about self-expression and identity within the fashion world. Styles’ ability to seamlessly transition from a classic suit to a leather ensemble and then adorn it all with whimsical boas exemplifies his unique artistic vision and fearless approach to personal style, making every appearance a fashion moment.

Navigating a High-Profile Romance: Harry Styles and Olivia Wilde

Despite the immense professional success and excitement surrounding his Grammy night, Harry attended the annual show without his girlfriend, actress and director Olivia Wilde. Her absence was attributed to work commitments, as she was out of town filming a movie. The former One Direction singer, known for his generally private demeanor, has consistently expressed a desire to keep his personal life, particularly his budding romance with Olivia, out of the glaring spotlight. Sources close to Styles have revealed to HollywoodLife that maintaining privacy is paramount for him in this relatively new relationship. He has yet to publicly address the romance, preferring to navigate the complexities of a high-profile relationship away from intense media scrutiny, a common challenge for global celebrities like himself.

“Harry wants to spend his time with Olivia under the radar,” a source shared, emphasizing the challenges inherent in such a visible relationship. “Although he knows that’s nearly impossible, he just wants to have a natural and loving relationship the best way he can.” This sentiment highlights Styles’ genuine desire for normalcy amidst extraordinary circumstances. The source further elaborated on his cautious approach, explaining that Harry “is figuring out how to navigate it all and since it is so new, they’re taking things day by day — so far so good. He is really trying to make outside distractions a minimum.” This careful strategy underscores their commitment to building a solid foundation for their relationship, prioritizing personal connection over public display, and acknowledging the unique pressures that come with their respective careers.

The first public indications of Harry and Olivia’s romance emerged on January 3, when they were photographed holding hands at his agent’s wedding at the luxurious San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito, CA. This initial sighting sparked widespread speculation, which intensified the following day when the two were captured by paparazzi arriving at his Los Angeles home with luggage in tow, suggesting a deepening connection. Their relationship also has a professional dimension, as they were working closely on the upcoming psychological thriller film, Don’t Worry, Darling. Harry stars in the movie, while Olivia directs, meaning they had already been spending a significant amount of time together on set, which naturally fostered a strong bond and provided a fertile ground for their relationship to blossom, blurring the lines between their professional and personal lives in a high-stakes environment.

The couple went public with their relationship just two months after news broke of Olivia’s split from her fiancé of seven years, Jason Sudeikis, with whom she shares two children, son Otis, aged 6, and daughter Daisy, aged 4. While their separation was publicly announced in November 2020, reports suggest that the exes had actually parted ways sometime in early 2020, though the exact timeline of their breakup remains somewhat ambiguous. This transition period adds a layer of complexity to Olivia and Harry’s burgeoning romance, highlighting the intricate dynamics of their personal lives unfolding in the public eye. Both individuals, seasoned in the entertainment industry, continue to navigate these changes with discretion, focusing on their respective careers and personal well-being while managing the intense scrutiny that accompanies their celebrity status.

Harry Styles’ Evolving Career and Cultural Impact

Harry Styles’ Grammy win for “Watermelon Sugar” is another testament to his extraordinary journey from a global pop phenomenon in One Direction to an acclaimed solo artist and cultural icon. His post-boy band career has been marked by a daring embrace of various musical styles, a profound influence on fashion, and a successful foray into acting. Beyond his chart-topping hits, Styles has cultivated a unique brand that champions individuality, breaking down traditional gender barriers in music and style. His artistic evolution, showcased through albums like “Fine Line” and his roles in films such as Dunkirk and the upcoming Don’t Worry, Darling, demonstrates a versatility and depth that extends far beyond his initial fame. He has become a beacon of self-expression, inspiring millions to embrace their authentic selves, making his every move, from musical releases to red carpet appearances, a significant cultural event.

The Unforgettable Night

The 2021 Grammy Awards were a monumental night for Harry Styles, solidifying his place as a leading voice in contemporary music and culture. His captivating performance of “Watermelon Sugar,” characterized by his signature blend of musical talent, magnetic stage presence, and groundbreaking fashion, left an indelible mark on viewers and critics alike. The subsequent win for Best Pop Solo Performance not only validated his artistic vision but also celebrated the joy and escapism his music provides. From his eye-catching boas to his confident, bare-chested display of tattoos, Styles delivered a show-stopping experience that perfectly encapsulated the vibrancy and innovation he brings to the global entertainment stage. His performance was not just a kick-off to an awards show; it was a definitive statement of his enduring appeal and his undeniable impact on pop culture.