Pop stardom has evolved from creating music for the widest audience to artists finding success with niche sounds. Artists like Billie Eilish and SZA are making music that may not be recognizable to the general public, treating pop as a genre to build upon rather than a trending sound. Live performances have been crucial in creating communities around these artists, such as Roan and Carpenter, who have seen their popularity rise after opening for big names and performing at major festivals. The success of these artists is also tied to the cultural and political climate, with their authenticity and unapologetic nature resonating with fans. Charli XCX’s latest album “Brat” has encouraged fans to embrace a messy and unapologetic approach to life. Roan, in particular, is seen as the right artist for the current youth culture, representing queer people in mainstream pop. While hit singles are not the main focus for these artists, connecting with a cult fan base and creating idiosyncratic music is key to their success. The traditional rules of pop stardom no longer apply, as these artists have found ways to rise to the top without conforming to the standard expectations of the industry.
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Chappell Roan’s rise to success signals the emergence of the ‘middle class’ pop star
