From NSYNC to Shawn Mendez, it seems as though the 2000s and 2010s were overflowing with pop boys. Wild fanbases like Directioners and Beliebers took the world by storm. However, in recent years, the music industry has witnessed a noticeable lack of male pop artists, often referred to as “pop boys.” This void has sparked many discussions among fans and industry professionals about the evolving landscape of pop music, and if there is still a space for pop boys to strive in this space. However, a new wave of talented male artists is emerging, ensuring to fill this void.
One artist making significant strides is Maddox Baston. At just 14 years old, Baston’s journey into music was brought on by his diagnosis of Osgood-Schlatter disease, which diminished his chances to strive in athletics. Turning his adversity into opportunity, he began performing live on TikTok alongside his father, quickly growing a substantial following. His debut single, “Tears in the River,” went viral, leading to over 3.5 million followers and a record deal with Warner Records.
Often compared to a young Justin Beiber, his stardom parallels the Canadian pop star. Justin Beiber was scouted on YouTube when Scooter Braun, then a marketing executive, stumbled upon his videos while searching for videos of another singer. Impressed, Braun contacted Bieber’s mother and eventually brought him to Atlanta to record demos. Maddox similarly was scouted on TikTok. Maddox’s viral cover of “Dancing in the Sky” by Sam Barber, posted in September 2023, garnered over 1 million views and caught the attention of record executives and managers. Maddox’s familiar rise to fame promises us a new wave of male pop artists and a long, successful career.
Another male pop artist that is currently taking the world by storm is Role Model. Role Model, whose real name is Tucker Pillsbury, gained fame by catching the attention of the late rapper Mac Miller. After Mac Miller discovered Pillsbury’s music, he was flown out to Los Angeles and later signed to Interscope Records, launching his music career. Though Tucker has been in the industry for years, his latest album “Kansas Anymore” has solidified his place in the pop boy community. His recent concert videos reaching virality all over the internet, Tucker’s recent success and great talent is a perfect addition to the pop space.
Benson Boone is another male pop artist that has recently garnered the attention of millions of viewers. Benson Boone’s rise to fame is a familiar story of pop boys found on TikTok.. He gained initial recognition on TikTok through his singing videos, which led to an audition on American Idol in 2021. Though he withdrew from the competition, his TikTok following continued to grow, eventually attracting the attention of Dan Reynolds of Imagine Dragons, who signed him to Night Street Records. His single “Beautiful Things” exploded, winning awards like Song of the Year at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, and the IFPI Global Single Award for 2024.
Ultimately, the future of male pop is bright, filled with talented artists who push the boundaries of the genre. With figures like Maddox Braston, Role Model, and Benson Boone at the forefront, pop is sure to evolve with talent and ultimate care. As male pop continues to evolve, it promises listeners a genre that celebrates vulnerability and innovation.
