Harry Styles' Comeback Single Sparks David Bowie Comparison Frenzy
Music enthusiasts have erupted with excitement and speculation after the release of Harry Styles' latest music video, with many drawing compelling parallels to the legendary David Bowie. The former One Direction star, aged 31, unveiled the visual accompaniment for his new single Aperture on Friday, marking his highly anticipated return to the music scene following a four-year hiatus. Within a remarkably short timeframe, the video has already captivated audiences, accumulating over six million views and igniting fervent discussions across social media platforms.
Uncanny Visual Parallels Between Two Iconic Videos
The narrative of Styles' video begins in a seemingly ordinary hotel setting before rapidly escalating into an action-packed sequence. The singer finds himself pursued through urban streets by an ardent fan, culminating in a physical confrontation that bears a striking resemblance to Bowie's 2022 release for I'm Afraid of Americans. Both productions feature a central figure being chased by a mysterious man possessing similar physical characteristics—notably long dark hair and a comparable stature—embodying the abstract, conceptual artistry for which Bowie was renowned.
However, Styles introduces a distinctive twist to this homage. In a poignant departure from Bowie's original, the pursuit ultimately transforms into a synchronised, choreographed dance routine before the two characters go their separate ways. This creative evolution has been widely praised by viewers, who appreciate the respectful nod to an icon while showcasing Styles' unique artistic vision.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Eruption
The online community has been swift to identify and celebrate these visual echoes. Enthusiastic fans have flooded platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with side-by-side edits, meticulously comparing scenes from both videos. The term 'David Bowie coded' has trended extensively, as supporters from both fanbases unite in analysing the thematic and stylistic connections.
Notable fan comments include:
- 'I KNEW IT!!! Something felt very David Bowie about it from the first watch.'
- 'I've been saying since it dropped—it's absolutely David Bowie coded.'
- 'My partner is a massive Bowie and Harry Styles fan! He immediately said the track sounded like a Bowie production.'
- 'There's no way Harry Styles' Aperture video isn't inspired by this Bowie classic.'
Similarly, on Bowie's I'm Afraid of Americans video, which has amassed seven million views, admirers have remarked, 'Harry Styles definitely took inspiration from this for his Aperture visual.'
Styles' Major Comeback and Upcoming Projects
This release serves as the lead single from Styles' forthcoming album, KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY, officially confirmed last week for release on Friday, March 6. The announcement has been accompanied by plans for an extensive global tour, featuring a 50-show residency across seven cities. Highlights include 30 performances at New York's iconic Madison Square Garden, six monumental dates at London's Wembley Stadium, and additional concerts across Europe, Latin America, and Australia.
The tour commences in Amsterdam on May 16 and concludes in Sydney, Australia, with special guests such as Robyn, Shania Twain, and Jamie xx set to join on various dates. Ticket sales for the London shows open to the general public on January 30 at 11 am, following Styles' Instagram tease earlier this week where he shared a studio snapshot announcing the single's release.
Interestingly, Styles faces a friendly chart rivalry with former One Direction bandmate Louis Tomlinson, who releases his album How Did I Get Here? on the same Friday, following his single Imposter. This coincidence adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already sensational musical comeback, proving that Styles' return is not only creatively resonant but also perfectly timed within the contemporary pop landscape.
