Nic Kelly, host of The Hot Hits on the Hit Network and LiSTNR, dives into the renaissance of female pop artists like Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter. He highlights the importance of authenticity in today’s music, contrasting it with the polished pop of the past. The conversation explores why some artists succeed while others, like Jojo Siwa, navigate challenges in their evolution. They discuss the impact of globalization and platforms like TikTok in shaping contemporary sounds and the audience's desire for deeper, relatable narratives.
The rise of a new generation of female pop artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan emphasizes authentic and confessional songwriting, reshaping the genre's landscape.
Established artists like Katy Perry face challenges in the current music scene due to their failure to adapt to the demand for genuine and innovative narratives.
Deep dives
The Rise of a New Generation in Pop Music
The current landscape of female pop music features a new generation of artists who are reshaping the genre, with Sabrina Carpenter, Chapel Roe, and Charlie XCX leading the way. These artists bring years of experience and are resonating with audiences through their innovative sound and themes. Unlike previous generations dominated by artists like Katy Perry and Lady Gaga, the new crop is characterized by more authentic and confessional songwriting, drawing from their personal experiences. This marks a shift in pop culture, with a greater emphasis on diverse narratives and a connection to the zeitgeist that reflects contemporary issues.
Nuanced Storytelling in Modern Pop
Modern female pop music prioritizes nuanced storytelling, moving away from the formulaic and often male-dominated writing processes of the past. Current artists are crafting songs that reflect their lived experiences rather than adhering to pre-established norms, allowing listeners to engage with more complex and layered narratives. For instance, Chapel Roe's journey as a queer artist from a conservative background illustrates the depth and authenticity that is now prevalent in pop music. This evolution not only promotes personal connection but also aligns with the broader cultural shift towards valuing genuine expression and relatable themes.
Cultural Context and Shifting Expectations
The decline in success for established artists like Katy Perry and Jojo Siwa highlights the challenges faced by those who fail to adapt to the changing musical landscape. Perry's recent single flopped, revealing a disconnect between her traditional approach to empowerment and the current demand for authenticity and innovation. Jojo Siwa's attempts to reinvent herself have similarly fallen flat, as her celebrity status does not translate into musical credibility. The ongoing preference for authentic, story-driven music suggests that future pop must continue embracing complexity and cultural relevance to succeed.
You might be celebrating Brat Summer, or singing along to the light-sounding-but-heavy-meaning words of Chappell Roan – or maybe you’re just sipping that Espresso with Sabrina Carpenter.
Either way, the charts don’t lie - a new intense and complex female-made and focused pop sound is having a renaissance.
So what’s the key ingredient for being a female pop star in 2024 and why is it working for some but not for others?
As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting Sacha Barbour Gatt’s chat with Nic Kelly, host of The Hot Hits on the Hit Network and LiSTNR to unpack it all.