Michael Jackson has been replaced by Harry Style as the ‘new King of Pop’.
The ‘Billie Jean’ singer – who tragically died aged 50 in 2009 – is widely regarded as one of the most iconic musicians of the 20th century.
Throughout his career, Jackson was awarded 13 Grammy Awards, six Brit Awards, five Billboard Music Awards, and 24 American Music Awards.
Plus, he holds 20 Guinness Records.
While Styles, 29, shot to fame on The X Factor in the boyband group One Direction.
He’s since gone on to become a solo artist and has dropped three studio albums.
Although Styles has a huge fanbase and has won three Grammy Awards throughout his career, people aren’t happy that he’s now being dubbed the ‘new King of Pop’.
Harry Styles has been dubbed the ‘new King of Pop’, but people aren’t happy about it. Credit: Alamy
It all started when Rolling Stone published a piece on the ‘As It Was’ singer that made a bold statement.
“Harry Styles: How the new King of Pop set the music world aflame,” it was titled.
While a younger audience may believe Styles has rightfully earned the crown, not everyone agrees.
Jackson’s own family has even spoken out, condemning the title.
Michael Jackson, long celebrated as the “King of Pop,” continues to hold an unmatched legacy in the music world. However, in recent years, the title of the “New King of Pop” has been given to British singer Harry Styles, sparking discussions about the reasons behind this shift. This unexpected change has raised many eyebrows, especially given Jackson’s monumental impact on music and culture.
Michael Jackson’s reign as the King of Pop was undeniable. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Jackson dominated the music scene with groundbreaking albums like Thriller, Bad, and Dangerous, alongside unforgettable performances, music videos, and unparalleled dancing skills.
His influence transcended the music world, shaping pop culture for generations. Jackson broke down racial barriers, innovated in the music video industry, and set new standards for live performances.
Yet, as time has passed, new artists have emerged, carving their own paths in pop music while also reflecting the changing landscape of the industry. One such artist is Harry Styles. The former member of One Direction transitioned into a solo career that rapidly gained global acclaim.
His ability to blend pop with rock, fashion, and progressive ideals has captivated a new generation of fans. Styles’ music, particularly albums like Fine Line and Harry’s House, explores themes of love, identity, and vulnerability, resonating with younger audiences in ways that reflect modern sensibilities.
So why has Harry Styles earned the title of the “New King of Pop,” a title once synonymous with Michael Jackson? The answer lies in the evolving nature of pop music and culture. Styles has successfully navigated the changing dynamics of the music industry, blending timeless appeal with contemporary relevance.
His music reflects both his personal journey and the broader social issues of today, including gender fluidity, mental health, and social justice. He’s also known for his gender-nonconforming fashion choices, which have garnered attention for challenging traditional norms.
Styles’ connection with his fans has played a crucial role in this shift. Unlike Michael Jackson’s era, where the relationship between artist and audience was often mediated through traditional media, Harry Styles thrives in the age of social media, where direct engagement with fans has become more integral. His transparency, openness, and active participation in conversations around social issues have earned him a devoted following.
Furthermore, Harry Styles has managed to maintain an aura of mystery and charisma, much like Jackson did at the height of his fame. His performances are marked by an infectious energy, and his ability to captivate audiences with his voice, presence, and fashion choices has made him an icon in his own right.
While Michael Jackson’s place in history is firmly secured, the rise of Harry Styles as the “New King of Pop” reflects how the title of pop royalty evolves with the times. Michael Jackson’s legacy paved the way for artists like Styles to redefine what it means to be a pop star in the 21st century. The new King of Pop is not simply a reflection of music; it is also about cultural influence, fan connection, and the ability to remain relevant in an ever-changing world.