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Represents a new, softer masculinity: Harry Styles (at Coachella, 2022)
Photo:
Kevin Mazur/Coachella/Getty Images
How Harry Styles is celebrating his 30th birthday today? We can only guess. Since he ended his international concert tour “Love On Tour” in July 2023, things have become quiet around the British singer. Every now and then a snapshot of Styles and actress Taylor Russel, accompanied by dating rumors, most recently an outcry on social networks when he got a new short haircut, that's all we hear or see from him.
After two years of touring, Styles is taking a break - which was probably much needed. Nevertheless, I think: Harry, it's time for a comeback!
The world needs “kindness”
»Treat People With Kindness«. This isn't just a song on Styles' second album "Fine Line", the phrase has long since become a mainstay of the singer's image: At his concerts, the focus is on niceness and togetherness.
I remember my first "Love On Tour" concert: penultimate row in Hamburg's Volksparkstadion, Harry Styles at the front of the stage just a jumping yellow spot, barely bigger than my thumbnail. But that didn't matter to me, because what happens beforehand at Stlyes' concerts is more important than what happens on stage. Where people happily dance hand in hand, form metre-long polonaises and lie on their backs and close their eyes while listening to ballads. It's exactly this sense of community that we could use right now.
Some say that much of Styles' nice image is pure PR, a sophisticated image strategy to particularly appeal to young women. I met the singer by chance in 2018 - when he came to the cafe where I worked at the time. No trace of aloofness, not even towards the waitress (i.e. me). Styles is nice in real life too.
A queer safe space
We need Styles again for another reason: there is a debate in the state parliament of Baden-Württemberg about a “gender ban,” and fans in the football stadium hold up a banner that claims there are “only 2 genders.” Maybe you don't notice it everywhere yet, but a conservative backlash is rolling in - which especially threatens queer people. That's why we need safe spaces. The likes of Style's concerts. Because there he empowers his fans to come out (if they like!), accompanied by cheers and waving LGBTQ flags.
Although he does not take a clear stance on his sexuality, he also softens gender boundaries in his self-portrayal: Styles wears pearl necklaces and dresses, pastel colors and clips in his hair. He has also created a brand for care products called “Pleasing”. Styles represents a new, softer-looking masculinity. One in which all feelings are allowed, toughness is not glorified and “kindness” is practiced. We could use more of that, especially now.
Sure, Harry is actually supposed to send a wish into the universe today when he blows out his birthday candles. But I also want to send one to him: Happy Birthday, Harry – we miss you, please come back!