What is sign of the times?

"Sign of the Times" is a song by English singer Harry Styles from his self-titled debut studio album, released in 2017. The song was released as the lead single from the album on April 7, 2017. It was written by Styles, along with Jeff Bhasker, Mitch Rowland, Ryan Nasci, Alex Salibian, and Tyler Johnson. The production was handled by Bhasker, Salibian, and Johnson.

Musically, "Sign of the Times" is a pop rock and soft rock ballad with influences from glam rock. It features piano, guitar, and a strong vocal performance by Styles. The song has been compared to the works of artists like David Bowie and Queen due to its classic rock influences.

Lyrically, "Sign of the Times" addresses themes of sadness and hope, capturing the emotional landscape of a world in turmoil and the need for perseverance. Critics praised the song for its ambitious sound and mature themes, marking a departure from the pop music often associated with Styles' earlier work with One Direction.

The song was a commercial success, topping the charts in several countries, including the UK Singles Chart, and reaching number four on the US Billboard Hot 100. It has been certified multi-platinum in several regions, reflecting significant sales and streaming figures.