Why Are Millennial Pop Stars Threatening to Quit Music Careers?
The music industry is witnessing a significant shift as millennial pop stars express sentiments of disillusionment with their careers. Prominent figures like Charli XCX, Ariana Grande, and Selena Gomez are vocalizing their struggles in an industry that often feels demanding and constricted.
Charli XCX’s Journey into New Creative Avenues
Charli XCX recently joined Substack, diving into longer-form writing to share her thoughts. Her first post, titled “Running on the spot in a dream,” reveals her heartfelt reflections on her trajectory as a pop star. After releasing her album Brat, XCX struggled with the thought of stepping away from music. “I had this feeling that I wouldn’t be able to make music anymore,” she stated, articulating the intense pressure she feels as an artist. Her husband, George Daniel, pointed out that these feelings are common among artists.
Currently, XCX is focusing on acting. She is involved in nine film projects and finds herself inspired by the film industry rather than music. “Film is where my creative brain seems to be gravitating,” she remarked, indicating a desire to explore acting and writing beyond music.
Ariana Grande’s Shift in Focus
Ariana Grande is also reevaluating her role in the music scene. During the promotional tours for Wicked, she hinted that her upcoming 2026 tour could be her “last hurrah.” Grande expressed excitement but acknowledged the uncertainty of future tours. “It might not happen again for a long, long time,” she admitted.
Additionally, Grande’s experience with acting has reignited her creativity and led her to contemplate stepping away from music. She shared on a podcast, “I didn’t think I was gonna make an album ever again,” revealing her internal conflict regarding her music career.
Selena Gomez’s Mixed Priorities
Selena Gomez, similarly, has found her passion in acting while grappling with her music career. With acclaimed roles in Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building and the film Emilia Perez, Gomez reflects on her journey. “The older I get, the more I’m kind of like, I would like to find something to just settle on,” she mentioned, indicating her desire for focus.
Other Millennial Pop Stars Voicing Burnout
The trends among younger pop stars extend beyond XCX, Grande, and Gomez. Taylor Swift has voiced her exhaustion regarding extensive touring, especially after the expansive Eras Tour. “I am so tired when I think about doing it again,” Swift revealed, expressing a shift in her priorities.
Miley Cyrus has also taken a step back from touring, citing her mental health and sobriety as reasons for avoiding extensive commitments. “I wish I had the desire, but I don’t,” Cyrus shared candidly, emphasizing the need for balance in her life.
Industry Pressures Affecting Millennial Stars
The prevalent theme among these artists is burnout, stemming from increased demands within the industry. Many millennials in pop music are opting for more stable ventures, like acting or launching beauty brands. Rihanna famously stepped away from music to establish a beauty and fashion empire, paving the way for others to follow suit.
As the creative landscape in pop music shifts, many stars feel trapped by the expectations of their roles. Charli XCX highlighted the struggles of being evaluated publicly: “There is only room for women to be a certain type of way,” she noted. This perception has created limitations, affecting the freedom of self-expression.
Conclusion: A New Era for Millennial Pop Stars
In conclusion, the current music scene reveals a generation of millennial pop stars questioning their paths. This shift raises important dialogues about mental health, creativity, and the pressures of fame. As they seek new directions, these artists continue to impact the industry, blurring the lines between music and other forms of artistic expression.
