Pop stardom has evolved from creating music for the widest possible audience to allowing artists to find success with niche sounds. Top artists like Billie Eilish and SZA are making music that may not be recognizable to the general public, treating “pop” as a genre rather than a trending sound. Live performances have served as an integral part of creating communities around these artists, helping them ascend the charts and secure headline festival slots.
Artists like Roan and Carpenter have seen their popularity rise after opening for big acts and performing at major festivals. Their authenticity, especially in terms of representation for women and LGBTQ individuals, has garnered a loyal fanbase. British pop star Charli XCX also made waves with her album “Brat,” inspiring fans to embrace a messy and unapologetic “brat summer.”
Despite their recent successes, these artists are not bound by traditional rules of pop stardom. Hit singles are no longer essential, as the focus has shifted towards creating idiosyncratic music that resonates with a devoted fan base. Roan, in particular, has captured the zeitgeist of youth culture and LGBTQ representation, positioning her as a breakthrough artist in the current musical landscape. By connecting with fans on a personal level and staying true to their authentic selves, these artists have found success in a changing industry.
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