Kieran Benson, Luther College

The Australian singer-songwriter exemplifies the evolution of the pop genre while taking note from pop stars of the past.

Tess McGrinder, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The musical superstar has opened up about his own struggles with his body, and sparked a dialogue about a topic that’s often overlooked.

Audrey Martin, Boston University

There are now more LGBTQ+ focused biopics, movies, TV shows and other forms of media, but it’s not LGBTQ+ actors who are telling these stories.

Cynthia Vasquez, Rutgers University, New Brunswick

Whether it’s Beyoncé’s ‘HOMECOMING’ or Queen’s ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ musicians are getting a boost from their movie appearances.

Caleb Clark, Hillsdale College

We all love when we get to see our favorite artists on the screen, but what happens when the reality doesn’t live up to the hype?

Aliza Pelto, Pratt Institute

The Elton John biopic succeeds, in part, because of its warts-and-all approach to the legendary musician.

Katelyn Melder, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Two years after Styles teased new music, the follow-up to his successful 2017 debut album has been shrouded in mystery.

Zailin Peña, Southern Adventist University

There’s more to Elton John than his trademark sunglasses.

Madalyn Watson, Baylor University

The musical ‘Rocketman’ is like no other biopic, mixing in a little magic to tell the story of Elton John’s rise to stardom.

Haley Newlin, Southern New Hampshire University

And what a year it has been.