Benson Boone Vs. Harry Styles: A Look At The Sound Alike Claims

Pedro Alvarez

5 min read

Post on May 10, 2025

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Vocal Similarities: A Comparative Analysis

The comparisons between Benson Boone and Harry Styles often center on their vocal qualities. While not identical, certain similarities are undeniable.

Timbre and Tone

Both possess a warm, inviting timbre, often described as slightly breathy and emotive. However, their ranges and textures differ. Styles' voice boasts a wider range and a richer, more resonant quality, particularly in his lower register. Boone, on the other hand, showcases a slightly lighter, more youthful tone, with a captivating vulnerability in his higher notes.

• Similar Vocal Techniques: Both utilize breathiness effectively to create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability in their ballads. Observe the similar use of vibrato in Boone's "In the Stars" and Styles' "Falling."
• [Link to YouTube comparison video showcasing breathiness and vibrato]
• Differing Ranges: Styles frequently showcases his powerful lower register, while Boone's strength lies in his expressive higher notes.

Vocal Style and Delivery

While both artists deliver emotionally charged vocals, their styles subtly diverge. Styles often employs a more theatrical, dynamic approach, with dramatic shifts in volume and intensity. Boone's delivery tends to be more understated, conveying emotion through subtle nuances and phrasing.

• Stylistic Choices: Compare the controlled intensity in Styles' "Watermelon Sugar" with the more introspective phrasing in Boone's "Ghost Town."
• [Link to YouTube comparison of "Watermelon Sugar" and "Ghost Town"]
• Potential Influences: The influence of vocal coaches, or perhaps shared musical inspirations, could partially explain some stylistic similarities. Both artists likely benefited from professional vocal training, honing their control and expression.

Musical Style and Genre Overlaps

Both Benson Boone and Harry Styles primarily operate within the pop genre, though with subtle stylistic distinctions.

Genre Comparisons

Both artists incorporate elements of indie-pop and soft rock, creating a sound appealing to a broad audience. However, Styles often incorporates funkier elements and bolder production choices, while Boone leans towards a more understated, folk-influenced sound.

• Shared Genre Elements: Both "As It Was" (Styles) and "July 9th" (Boone) showcase the blend of pop sensibilities with softer, more introspective moments.
• Production Differences: Styles often utilizes layered synths and driving rhythms, while Boone's productions tend to be more acoustic-driven and restrained.

Songwriting and Lyrical Themes

Both artists explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery in their songwriting. However, Styles' lyrical approach often features more evocative imagery and a playful wit. Boone's lyrics tend towards a more direct, emotionally vulnerable approach.

• Similar Lyrical Themes: Both artists frequently touch upon themes of heartbreak and longing in their songs.
• Different Storytelling Approaches: Styles' storytelling is often more metaphorical and layered, while Boone's is generally more straightforward and personal.

The Role of Media and Public Perception

The "Benson Boone sounds like Harry Styles" narrative has largely been fueled by online discussions and media coverage.

• Media Coverage: Several articles have directly compared their vocal styles and musical approaches.
• Social Media Trends: TikTok and other platforms are filled with videos comparing their songs, further solidifying the comparison in the public consciousness.
• Fan Reactions: While some fans strongly support the comparison, others vehemently disagree, highlighting the unique aspects of each artist's music.

Distinguishing Factors: Where They Differ

Despite some undeniable similarities, significant distinctions separate Benson Boone and Harry Styles.

Unique Vocal Characteristics

While sharing a breathy timbre, their vocal qualities differ significantly. Styles possesses a stronger, more commanding tone and wider range, while Boone's voice is characterized by its youthful fragility and emotional vulnerability.

• Vocal Range and Power: Styles consistently showcases impressive vocal power and range, a quality less emphasized in Boone's current work.
• Emotional Delivery: Boone's vocal delivery emphasizes emotional vulnerability and intimacy, while Styles often incorporates a more theatrical dynamic range.

Musical Identity and Artistic Vision

While both artists fall under the pop umbrella, their musical identities differ substantially. Styles' artistic vision embraces a broader spectrum of influences and a more flamboyant stage persona. Boone’s artistic vision appears more introspective and focused on emotionally resonant songwriting.

• Songwriting Styles: Styles incorporates more experimental elements and a wider range of production styles, while Boone seems more focused on refining a core sound based on acoustic-driven pop.
• Artistic Direction: Styles' artistic persona is bold and theatrical; Boone's presents a more understated and relatable image.

Conclusion: Benson Boone vs. Harry Styles – A Verdict on the Sound-Alike Debate

In conclusion, while superficial similarities exist between Benson Boone and Harry Styles – particularly in their breathy vocal timbres and exploration of similar pop subgenres – a closer examination reveals distinct vocal characteristics, songwriting styles, and overall artistic visions. While the "Benson Boone sounds like Harry Styles" comparison is understandable, it oversimplifies the unique musical identities of both artists. The similarities are more a reflection of common trends within the pop genre than direct imitation.

Listen to both artists, explore their discographies, and form your own opinion on this intriguing debate! Share your thoughts in the comments below, and check out this playlist comparing their key songs: [Link to Relevant Playlist]. The ultimate verdict in the Benson Boone vs. Harry Styles debate rests with you, the listener.