Troye Sivan: She’s the Best – A Unique Pop Artist Worthy of Multiplatinum Status

A few years ago, the New York Times introduced the term “middle-class pop star,” describing it as an individual who isn’t hugely popular but embodies a distinct sound, aesthetic, and attitude rather than commercial success. This concept isn’t newly minted; it recalls late 2000s efforts to distinguish critically acclaimed yet underground artists from those emerging from TV talent shows, such as Alphabeat and Frankmusik, categorized as ‘wonky pop.’ Social media has significantly altered this landscape, allowing artists to cultivate loyal fanbases, sell out concerts, and gain celebrity status despite lower chart standings.

Troye Sivan exemplifies this trend, having cultivated a notable-yet-niche presence over the last 12 years. His albums, while not record-breaking in sales, have fostered an impressive profile with arena tours and features in prestigious publications. His stature has been recognized by prominent figures; for instance, Kylie Minogue has praised him in Time magazine, and Nicole Kidman appears in the video for the title track, She’s the Best. His collaboration with familiar pop names like Dua Lipa and Ariana Grande further reflects his significant influence within the pop landscape.

Musically, tracks from the album offer a blend of nostalgic sounds, including shoegaze and Balearic influences, with lyrics that explore themes of fleeting relationships and intimacy. While the album’s appeal should ostensibly propel Sivan to a multiplatinum status, his position as a proudly queer artist allows for greater artistic freedom in his work. The distinctiveness of his music keeps him in a space where he can experiment, even if it means not conforming to mainstream commercial expectations, challenging the narrative of success in the modern pop industry.