Imagine witnessing a fresh face take over Saturday Night Live with a star-studded twist that leaves the audience buzzing—Role Model did exactly that, and it's got everyone talking! But here's where it gets controversial: Is this indie pop sensation truly maturing, or just riding the wave of viral fame? Let's dive into the details of his debut and unpack what makes it so intriguing.
Singer-songwriter Role Model, known off-stage as Tucker Pillsbury, made his mark as the musical guest on the iconic late-night sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live—often abbreviated as SNL for those new to TV culture, where hosts and performers deliver a mix of humor, sketches, and live music to millions each weekend. On this episode, hosted by the hilarious Amy Poehler, the 28-year-old artist from Maine showcased tracks from the deluxe version of his sophomore album, Kansas Anymore, released back in February.
He kicked things off with the catchy indie pop anthem 'Sally, When the Wine Runs Out,' a song that's exploded in popularity thanks to its relatable themes of heartbreak and escapism—think emotional lyrics paired with upbeat melodies that make you want to sing along. In his usual live approach, Role Model brought in a special guest to embody the character of Sally, and this time, it was none other than the electrifying British pop star Charli XCX. For beginners getting into the music scene, Charli is a powerhouse known for her bold, genre-bending hits like 'Brat,' and she was SNL's guest just last November, so her appearance here was a delightful callback.
The crowd went wild with screams as Charli joined in, adding flair by dancing energetically during the song's bridge, twirling her hair dramatically, and even playfully slipping her sunglasses onto Role Model's face before blowing him a kiss and sauntering off the stage. It was a moment of pure pop magic that blurred the lines between performance and improvisation, showing how live TV can turn a simple song into an unforgettable spectacle.
For his second number, Role Model shifted gears to the softer, more introspective 'Some Protector,' a mellow track that highlights his evolving style. This contrast is intriguing—here's where it gets especially controversial: Does blending high-energy collaborations with quieter, personal songs signal genuine artistic growth, or is it just a clever strategy to appeal to broader audiences? Role Model himself has spoken openly about this album being a significant leap forward from his 2022 debut, Rx, describing it as a reflection of his personal and creative maturation.
In an honest chat with Rolling Stone earlier this year, he explained, 'I wanted to demonstrate my evolution—the way I craft songs and my musical preferences have grown more refined, and I've developed as an individual too.' He added that this change involved him mastering the guitar enough to compose solo, marking a departure from relying on others. For newcomers, this means he's not just a vocalist anymore; he's a full-fledged songwriter exploring deeper emotions, which can make his music more relatable and layered.
Looking ahead, Role Model's on a roll: He toured as an opener for Gracie Abrams last year before leading his own No Place Like Tour this spring, proving his ability to draw crowds. And this is the part most people miss—upcoming exciting ventures! He'll be one of the featured artists at Rolling Stone's Musicians on Musicians live event on October 23 at New York City's historic Beacon Theatre. There, he'll share the stage with María Zardoya from the Marias for insightful conversations and joint performances, alongside Jack Antonoff teaming up with Hayley Williams of Paramore, all hosted by SNL's James Austin Johnson. It's a chance to see behind-the-scenes chemistry in action, which could spark debates on how collaborations influence modern music.
Not stopping there, Role Model is gearing up for a series of European shows next month, bringing his blend of indie pop charm across the pond. His journey from viral TikTok hits to SNL stardom raises thought-provoking questions: Do these high-profile gigs prove he's evolving as an artist, or are they just amplifying his already catchy style? And here's a controversial take—some might argue that inviting celebrities like Charli XCX dilutes the song's original intimacy, turning personal stories into flashy spectacles. What do you think? Does this collaboration elevate Role Model's career, or does it overshadow the raw emotion in his music? Share your opinions in the comments below—let's discuss!
