Emerging music sensation Benson Boone has firmly rejected widespread online claims that he is deliberately copying global superstar Harry Styles. The 22-year-old artist, who has rapidly ascended to fame following his 2024 hit single 'Beautiful Things', has addressed the persistent comparisons in a new interview, emphasising his distinct artistic persona.
Addressing the Viral Discourse
Over recent months, social media platforms have been flooded with videos and images juxtaposing Boone's fashion choices and stage presence with those of Harry Styles. These comparisons have sparked significant debate among fans, often accusing Boone of imitation. In a candid conversation with Rolling Stone, Boone directly confronted this narrative, stating his desire to carve out his own unique path in the music industry.
Musical Influences and Personal Identity
Boone revealed that during his formative years, he was an ardent admirer of Justin Bieber and the phenomenally successful boy band One Direction, of which Styles was a member. "I always loved Justin Bieber and One Direction," Boone confessed. "I mean, I was too embarrassed to admit it to my friends. Honestly, I was probably a bigger fan of them than any of my sisters." He described spending hours watching their music videos, acknowledging their impact on his early musical development.
However, Boone was unequivocal in distinguishing admiration from imitation. "I don’t want to be the same as Harry Styles and the same as Freddie Mercury, and the same as Justin Bieber, and the same as One Direction, like, because it’s not me," he asserted. "I’m Benson Boone! I’m completely different." This statement serves as a clear rebuttal to the critics who suggest his style is derivative.
Clapping Back on Social Media
The interview follows a recent incident where Boone personally responded to a viral TikTok video. Following his performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards, where he was nominated for Best New Artist, a fan created content pleading for Harry Styles' return and accusing Boone of being "disingenuous". The fan controversially suggested Boone was attempting to take Styles' metaphorical "nachos" – a reference to his position in the industry.
Boone directly messaged the creator, writing: "What a sad video to post. I hope someday when Harry comes to the Grammys you feel fulfilled." He added a poignant message about online behaviour: "In the meantime I genuinely hope you get all the good feelings in the world from tearing other people down." This exchange highlights the personal impact such comparisons can have on artists navigating their careers in the digital age.
A Meteoric Rise to Fame
Boone's journey to stardom began with an audition for American Idol in 2021, leading to a record deal and subsequent breakthrough. His single 'Beautiful Things' has achieved staggering commercial success, amassing over two billion streams globally. The Grammy nomination further cements his status as one of the most prominent new artists of his generation, making the comparisons with established stars like Harry Styles particularly resonant within music discourse.
As Boone continues to develop his career and artistic voice, his comments underscore a broader conversation about influence, originality, and the pressures faced by new artists in the spotlight. His determination to be recognised for his own merits, while respecting his influences, reflects the complex navigation of identity in contemporary pop music.
