Charli XCX Reveals the Realities of Being a Pop Star in Candid Substack Essay

Charli XCX has published a revealing new essay. She details the strange life of a modern pop star. The piece appeared on her Substack platform.

It offers a raw look at the job’s perks and absurdities. She describes it as both “really fucking fun” and ridiculous. This is her personal experience navigating the music industry.

The Glamour and the Grim Reality of Pop Stardom

Charli starts by listing the undeniable benefits. She mentions parties in black SUVs and meeting interesting people. Free gifts, from phones to shroom gummies, are also part of the deal.

She admits it makes you feel special. Yet, you also feel embarrassed by how stupid it can be. The artist acknowledges the deep connection with fans, too.

She writes that fans make you feel like a god. They use your music for breakups, recovery, and love. However, she soberly notes their dedication feels eternal, but in reality, it is not.

The Soulless Liminal Spaces of a Pop Life

A significant part of her essay focuses on the in-between moments. She describes constant travel through “strange and soulless liminal spaces.” This life can make an artist feel like a shipped commodity.

She illustrates this with a story from her mockumentary, *The Moment*. Actress Rachel Sennott arrived for a scene bundled in blankets. She was delivered “like a package.”

This lifestyle prompts self-reflection. Charli thinks about the person she was versus who she is now. An exchange with fellow artist Yung Lean provided a reality check about the “yes people” around her.

Charli XCX questions the demand for total truth from artists. Her favorite figures are not role models. She values hedonism, danger, and anti-establishment spirit in art.

Charli XCX’s essay ultimately frames pop stardom as a complex blend of fantasy and reality, where the most authentic moments are often the most performative.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is Charli XCX’s new album called?

Her latest album is titled *Brat*. It has been a major topic in pop music circles. The record continues her trend of innovative electronic pop.

What did Charli XCX say about being a pop star?

She called it “really fucking fun” but also ridiculous. She detailed the perks like free gifts and parties. She also described the loneliness of constant travel.

Is Charli XCX making a documentary?

She is working on a project called *The Moment*. She describes it as a mockumentary, not a standard tour film. It aims to be a real depiction of the music industry.

How does Charli XCX view her fans?

She feels they make her feel like a god. Their dedication soundtracks life’s biggest moments. She also acknowledges this fandom is not forever.

Why did Charli XCX reference Lou Reed?

She shared a photo of the Velvet Underground icon. It aligns with her admiration for artists who blur truth and performance. She finds this approach funny and cool.