Addressing The Controversy: Benson Boone And The Harry Styles Comparisons

Pedro Alvarez

5 min read

Post on May 10, 2025

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Vocal Similarities and Differences

The most immediate point of comparison between Benson Boone and Harry Styles lies in their vocal capabilities. Both possess a captivating vocal tone that resonates deeply with listeners.

Tone and Timbre

Both artists share a certain light, airy quality in their voices, particularly noticeable in their falsetto registers. Boone's vocals, however, often exhibit a slightly raspier texture compared to Styles’ smoother tone. The resemblance is striking in songs like Boone's "In the Stars" and Styles' "Watermelon Sugar," where both artists employ a similar breathy delivery.

• Songs showcasing vocal similarities: "In the Stars" (Benson Boone), "Watermelon Sugar" (Harry Styles), "Ghost of You" (5 Seconds of Summer - featuring a similar vocal style to both)
• Points of divergence: Boone’s voice occasionally displays a more pronounced vibrato, while Styles' tends towards a more controlled, nuanced vibrato. Boone's range also seems slightly wider, showcasing powerful high notes more frequently.
• Expert opinions: While formal comparative analyses by vocal coaches are scarce, anecdotal evidence from online discussions suggests a general agreement on both the similarities and distinct characteristics of their voices.

Range and Style

While both possess impressive vocal ranges, their approaches to melody and phrasing differ subtly. Boone often showcases a broader range, incorporating powerful high notes into his performances, reminiscent of classic rock singers. Styles, on the other hand, tends towards a more controlled and nuanced delivery, often favoring intimate vocals.

• Analysis of vocal range: Both artists can reach high notes comfortably, but Boone's power ballads often display a greater vocal extension.
• Comparison of performance styles: Boone frequently demonstrates a more emotionally raw and dynamic style, whereas Styles' performances are often more polished and theatrical.
• Examples of stylistic differences: Compare Boone's energetic live performances to Styles' carefully orchestrated stage shows to appreciate the nuances in their vocal delivery.

Musical Style and Genre

While both Benson Boone and Harry Styles operate predominantly within the pop genre, their explorations extend into other areas. This genre overlap, however, masks significant stylistic differences.

Genre Overlap and Divergence

Both artists draw from pop's diverse influences, yet their individual sounds diverge considerably. While Styles often incorporates elements of rock and funk into his pop sound, Boone’s music demonstrates stronger roots in singer-songwriter traditions, infusing pop with acoustic sensibilities.

• Genre classifications: Both are primarily pop artists, but Styles leans towards more upbeat and danceable pop, while Boone often inhabits a more introspective and melancholic pop space.
• Examples of diverse genres: Styles' "As It Was" represents a classic pop anthem, while Boone’s "Better Alone" showcases a more intimate singer-songwriter style.
• Lyrical themes: Styles' lyrics often focus on romance and relationships, while Boone's frequently explore themes of self-discovery and emotional vulnerability.

Production and Instrumentation

The production styles employed in their music highlight another key difference. Styles’ music often features layered synths, polished production, and a modern pop sheen. Boone's sound, conversely, tends towards a more organic, acoustic-driven approach, often featuring stripped-back instrumentation.

• Production comparisons: Compare the meticulous production of Styles’ "Golden" to the raw, intimate feel of Boone's "Ghost Town."
• Role of instrumentation: Styles’ music uses instrumentation to build expansive soundscapes; Boone uses it to emphasize emotional nuance and intimacy.
• Recurring stylistic choices: Styles frequently utilizes specific synth sounds; Boone favors acoustic guitar and piano.

Image and Persona

Beyond their music, the public image cultivated by both artists contributes to the ongoing comparison, yet substantial differences exist.

Public Image and Branding

Both artists project a certain level of youthful charisma, but their styles are distinctly different. Styles' image is often characterized by flamboyant fashion and confident stage presence. Boone, in contrast, cultivates a more relatable and approachable image, often seen in simpler, more casual attire.

• Fashion and stage presence: Styles' extravagant style contrasts sharply with Boone's more understated look.
• Online personas: Styles' social media presence is often highly stylized, while Boone's is more candid and personal.
• Differentiation attempts: Boone actively differentiates himself from the "heartthrob" archetype often associated with Styles.

Fanbases and Reception

The comparisons inevitably influence the reception of both artists. While both boast dedicated and passionate fanbases, their demographics and engagement styles differ.

• Fan comments: Online discussions reveal a significant portion of Boone’s fanbase is aware of the comparisons but largely supports Boone's unique musical identity.
• Demographic analysis: Styles has a broader, more established fanbase, while Boone’s fanbase is still growing.
• Impact on careers: The comparisons might initially draw attention to Boone, but ultimately, his lasting success hinges on maintaining his individual artistic path.

Conclusion: A Fair Comparison? Benson Boone and Harry Styles

In conclusion, while undeniable vocal similarities exist between Benson Boone and Harry Styles, a deeper analysis reveals significant differences in their musical styles, production techniques, and public image. The "Benson Boone is the next Harry Styles" comparison, while understandable given certain vocal similarities, is ultimately reductive. It fails to acknowledge Boone's unique artistic voice and potentially overshadows his distinctive talents. The controversy surrounding Benson Boone’s comparisons to Harry Styles highlights the importance of appreciating individual artistry, even amidst undeniable similarities.

We encourage you to listen to both artists' music, form your own opinions, and engage in respectful discussions about the Benson Boone and Harry Styles debate. Let's celebrate the unique contributions of both these talented musicians.