Throughout the years, pop music generated many iconic female artists. From Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter to Ariana Grande and Selena Gomez, a stereotype of “pop princesses” emerged. Though each artist was unique in her own way, these singers followed a formula in their music and presentation that helped guarantee their success: relatability.
Gabriela Arreguin, freshman exercise science major who consumed pop culture and music daily, said, “I believe big artists like Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo and many more are continuously relevant because of the consistent release of … music their fans relate to.”
Fourteen-time Grammy-winner Taylor Swift, for example, built much of her brand around her love life, writing hit breakup songs about her romantic experiences—both fictional and real. By centering her music around love—a universal and complex emotion—and pairing it with clever lyrics, Swift created an empire of fans who believed in her authenticity. Her lyrical honesty as she chronicled her relationships allowed audiences to relate to the good, the bad and the embarrassing.
“… I’ve listened to [pop artists’] music through some of my most challenging and happiest times,” Arreguin said. “And now, I associate some of my happiest memories with songs like ‘August’ by Taylor Swift …”
Beyond vulnerability in their lyrics, these pop princesses further enhanced their relatability through their public personas. Olivia Rodrigo, who debuted her first single at 17, built her early career on teenage angst—something nearly everyone experiences. Through her style, lyrics and public presence, Rodrigo tapped into her generation authentically, building a strong fan base. Her 2021 album “SOUR“ was a clear example, as she explored feelings of heartbreak, jealousy and confusion.
“I found Olivia Rodrigo very relatable, especially in her first album,” said Cadence Barnett, senior songwriting major. “I think that’s what launches a lot of these women… [When] their first album blows up, they haven’t experienced a lot of fame… So they’re a lot more like normal people.”
Barnett believed their willingness to let the public in contributed to their success, with relatability as the result. “In order to be relatable, you have to make yourself vulnerable to a certain extent,” she said.
Chappell Roan offered another example. Though her artistry and extravagant persona might seem less relatable, her openness about the music industry’s behind-the-scenes struggles helped her maintain authenticity.
“She’s letting the public in on that part of [the industry] that normally a lot of pop stars don’t really talk about,” Barnett said.
At the heart of pop music and its princesses are the dedicated fans, who support these icons and the message they spread. Ashley Cole, a fan of pop icons like Chappell Roan, explains why she loves the genre. “I will always have a place in my heart for pop music and artists,” Cole said. “Not only does it feel uplifting or relatable, it also helps chase the teenage dream.”
Ultimately, the intentionality and relatability these singers infused into their music and image helped establish them as influential icons and build empires of loyal fans.
“… thinking about other people’s perspectives and opinions in the writing process is only going to interrupt creativity,” Barnett said.
