TikTok star turned rising pop artist Addison Rae delivers with Addison—a slick, self-assured debut that defies expectations and stakes its claim in 2025’s pop canon. Gone are the days of viral dance clips; instead, Rae serves immersive synth-pop, alt-pop, and trip‑hop with warmth and swagger .
Teaming up with Swedish hitmakers Elvira Anderfjärd and Luka Kloser (veterans of Max Martin’s factory), Rae crafts a lush sonic palette full of shimmering synths, polished beats, and intimate vocal layering. Opener “New York” crackles with hyperpop energy and nightclub-ready drive, while “Fame Is a Gun” peels back layers of ambition and satire—a standout with charting success in multiple countries .
Her breathy, Billie Eilish–style delivery weaves through “Diet Pepsi” and “Aquamarine,” merging nostalgic diva power with contemporary flair . On “Headphones On,” a smooth trip-hop-inflected love song, Rae’s emotional range deepens—her voice floats, capturing the pain of escape and self‑search.
Rather than reinventing pop, Rae arms it with narrative depth. Themes of fame, identity, and emotional transparency come alive in tracks like “Times Like These,” “High Fashion,” and the introspective closer “Headphones On” . While some critics find a lack of vocal urgency, the moodiness is intentional—bright, dreamy melodies paired with slightly detached vocals create a fresh contrast.
One of 2025’s most hyped releases, Addison marks Rae’s seamless shift from influencer to respected pop talent . The album’s ability to balance memeable charm and emotional nuance makes it a cultural moment in the evolving pop landscape.
At just over 30 minutes, Addison feels cohesive and purposeful—no filler, just intentional pop architecture. Rae may not be the next Madonna (yet), but she’s off to an impressive start. Whether you come for the hooks or stay for the lyrics, Addison offers a confident, stylish fresh face in pop, ready for the big leagues. Check it out below and let us know your thoughts.