Home / Arts and Entertainment / Pop Stars Take to Substack to Control Their Narrative
Pop Stars Take to Substack to Control Their Narrative
15 Feb
Summary
- Artists use Substack to share longform essays and personal thoughts.
- Platforms like X and Instagram offer less control over narrative.
- Musicians aim to reframe public perception through written content.

A growing number of musicians are leveraging Substack to share personal essays and exert greater control over their public narratives. Artists like Charli XCX, Doechii, and Troye Sivan are utilizing the platform to publish longform content, moving beyond the constraints of traditional social media.
These artists find platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram insufficient for nuanced communication, especially given the prevalence of misinformation and online speculation. Substack offers a refuge where musicians can directly address fans, share detailed reflections, and re-contextualize their work and personal experiences.
Charli XCX's essays delve into the nature of pop stardom and audience engagement, while Doechii uses her platform to discuss issues of race and technology. Troye Sivan has shared personal reflections on body image and his experiences with public perception.
This trend signifies a shift in how artists engage with their audiences, aiming to dismantle the performative nonchalance often expected and foster more authentic, controlled dialogue. The success of these ventures highlights a desire for deeper connection and narrative control in the digital age.




