Did Pop Music Just Find Its New “It Girl?”

by Nathan Corrál

2024 was a huge year for women in pop music. Artists like Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan, to name a few, had massive years–from grammy nominated albums to headlining major music festivals around the world. 2025 has brought these superstars continued success. As they continue to dominate the scene, the question rises: who will be pop music’s next sensation? Over the last few months, we might have found our next “It girl.” 

ELMONT, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 11: Addison Rae at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards at UBS Arena on September 11, 2024 in Elmont, New York. (Photo by Gotham/WireImage)

Who Is She?

Addison Rae is well known for her presence on TikTok, but lately she has been turning heads with her music. The singer is fresh off the release of the fourth single “Headphones On” from her upcoming debut album. However, this isn’t her first rollout of a body of work. 

Back in 2023, Rae released her debut single, “Obsessed,” which was later featured on her five track EP “AR.” The project featured Charli XCX on their collaboration “2 die 4.” The two later went on to become great friends and continue to work on music together. Addison was featured on the A. G. Cook remix of Charli XCX’s “Von Dutch.” Just a few days ago, Rae joined Charli XCX on the mainstage at Coachella weekend two to perform the remix to a massive audience. It wasn’t her first time joining Charli on the stage.

During Charli XCX and Troye Sivan’s co-headline SWEAT Tour, Addison Rae joined the two on stage at Madison Square Garden to perform her song “Diet Pepsi.” In recent press, the TikToker discussed all the input and advice Charli had on the song. She even admits that XCX helped her change the song’s name from “Backseat” to “Diet Pepsi.” Since “Diet Pepsi,” fans were given three more singles. 

Star On The Rise

It is safe to say that Addison Rae has had one of the most consistent single rollouts in pop music in quite some time. She followed “Diet Pepsi” with “Aquamarine.” Sonically, the track was fresh and very different from her first single, but the two live in the same world.  We can say the same about “High Fashion” and “Headphones On.” It is clearly pop music with alternative and hyperpop influences interwoven. 

Today, we live in a culture where music videos are not as valued or appreciated the way they once were. However, Rae has delivered unforgettable music videos in accompaniment to each single. The influence of Britney Spears is evident, but the singer pays homage to her and gives us something fresh. The music videos stand out just like the songs. Visually and sonically they work together perfectly crafting the world of Addison Rae.

Eyes On June 8th

During weekend one of Coachella, Rae joined Arca on stage to perform the remix of “Aquamarine,” “Arcamarine.” At the end of the song, Rae flashed the crowd her hot pink underwear that had “June 8th” printed on the back. Many have speculated that is the date she will release her debut album. While it is not confirmed, we have something to expect from the star on that date. Her solid rollout of singles and her back to back appearances at both weekends of Coachella have made Addison Rae the popstar to watch.

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