Its human nature to challenge an established system, and in Billie Eilish’s scenario, it was the idea of the female pop star. Think of one by definition and the mind conjures images of Britney Spears scantily-clad with a python and an invigorating dance sequence. But what about an 18-year-old in XXXL tops with matching bottoms singing unmediated honest lyrics we imagine scribbled in our diaries? Not so much.
Photo credit: The Fader
The appeal of Billie Eilish in the mainstream consciousness is not entirely inconceivable. After all, through this decade, music genres collapsed, our definitions for fame were overhauled, and the unlikely became the expected.
What attracts most to Billie, at least in my case, was how relatable she is in spite of her fairly startling appearance and heavy lyrical references. Watch her interviews and she comes across as someone familiar — a young adult who feels and thinks no differently than we do.
Ever been rejected by a crush? Billie wished they were gay.
Feeling lonely at a ’cool-persons-party’ in secondhand smoke? Billie says you don’t need that xanny to feel better. BTW, we all feel that way sometimes too.
In the present day, our social climate reflects a worrying rise of depression and anxiety cases amongst young adults. Understandably, to have a world-renowned figure expressing her views on the matter is groundbreaking and impactful. And if her songs lead to a more comfortable environment for others to start open discussions, then the world is better with Billie Eilish, no?
Of course, her genre-bending brand of pop is also almost too intoxicatingly catchy (duh). As we wait for her upcoming Where Do We Go tour, why not snag these suitably oversized H&M x Billie Eilish Merch collection pieces referenced from her very own iconic style. While you’re at it, have some fun with the funky Snapchat filter. And if you’ll excuse us, we are gonna go replay Bad Guy to bob to…. again.
