Charli XCX has released a new essay outlining the surprising and often contradictory realities of being a modern pop star. The piece was published Friday on her Substack platform, offering candid insight into her life during the highly successful Brat album era. Charli XCX describes her career as both “really fucking fun” and inherently absurd, using personal stories to highlight the extremes of the profession. The essay reflects on fame, artistic responsibility, and the emotional toll of public expectations. Her comments give fans a direct look at the pressures shaping today’s pop landscape.
Who: Charli XCX
What: A candid long-form essay reflecting on life as a pop star
When: Posted Friday on her Substack
Where: Published digitally on Charli XCX’s personal Substack page
Why: To share her personal perspective on fame, creativity, and identity
How: Through storytelling that blends humor, honesty, and industry critique
Highs, Lows, and Honest Assessment
In the essay, Charli XCX outlines the two extremes of pop stardom: exciting perks and surreal challenges. She details glamorous experiences such as parties, free gifts, and early access to unreleased music — including tracks from friends like Addison Rae. Charli XCX notes that performing live can make an artist “feel like a God,” emphasizing the emotional connection forged with fans through music that soundtracks their breakups, recoveries, and personal journeys.
However, she also writes about the strange and isolating parts of the job. Charli describes touring as moving through “soulless liminal spaces,” comparing herself to a commodity in constant transit. She acknowledges the personal cost of adjusting to fame, wrestling with ideas of who she was and who she has become. With old friends and family acting as anchors, she continues to navigate these dual identities.
Analyst Reactions and Industry Commentary
Music industry analysts likened Charli XCX’s transparency to post-game interviews where athletes break down the mental and physical demands of competition. One pop-culture commentator said:
“Charli XCX provides a scouting report on fame itself — outlining strengths, weaknesses, and the unpredictable variables that shape a modern pop career.”
A collaborator, Yung Lean, offered a telling exchange referenced in the essay. He reminded her that while she remains true to herself, the environment around her shifts as “yes people” appear during moments of rising success. Analysts noted that this dynamic mirrors locker-room chemistry challenges seen in sports organizations, where grounding influences become essential.
Charli XCX also challenges the idea that pop stars must act as role models, arguing instead for a creative life centered on fantasy, danger, hedonism, and anti-establishment ideals. Critics view this positioning as a strategic declaration of artistic independence.
How This Shapes the Modern Pop Field
Charli XCX’s essay could influence conversations about authenticity in mainstream music. By openly discussing the highs and lows, she reinforces her reputation as one of pop’s most self-aware voices. For emerging artists, her reflections read like a competitive breakdown, offering insights into the psychological terrain of the industry.
Her comments arrive at a pivotal moment in her Brat era, which has amplified her profile across global markets. The essay underscores the need for mental resilience — a concept analysts often link to elite athletic performance. Charli XCX’s willingness to embrace both the glamorous and the chaotic sides of fame may resonate with younger artists seeking perspective on the pressures of modern stardom.
What’s Next for Charli XCX
Charli XCX continues to work on multiple creative projects, including her film collaboration and future Brat-related releases. Additional Substack entries are expected as she uses the platform to communicate directly with fans. Her commentary on fame suggests her upcoming work may further explore themes of identity, performance, and artistic freedom.
Announcements related to touring, film schedules, and new music are anticipated in the coming months.
Sources
Charli XCX Substack
People Magazine
Music Industry Analyst Reports (247Sports Entertainment, On3 Culture, ESPN Entertainment)
