Is Benson Boone Copying Harry Styles? A Critical Analysis

Aria Freeman

4 min read

Post on May 09, 2025

4.3

Share

Vocal Style and Delivery

Similarities:

Both Benson Boone and Harry Styles possess smooth, soulful vocals with a distinct range and emotional depth. Both artists utilize falsetto effectively, adding texture and nuance to their performances.

• Examples: Compare Boone's soaring high notes in "In the Stars" to the effortless falsetto in Styles' "Watermelon Sugar." Both artists employ similar phrasing techniques, creating a sense of longing and vulnerability in their delivery. Notice the use of melisma – the singing of a single syllable over multiple notes – in both artists' work. This technique adds a certain level of artistry and emotional complexity.

Differences:

While similarities exist, Boone's vocal delivery is often more raw and less polished than Styles'. While Styles often presents a meticulously crafted vocal performance, Boone incorporates more folk and country influences into his delivery, giving it a grittier, more authentic feel.

• Examples: Boone's vocals in "Ghost Town" showcase a rawness absent from Styles' smoother, more controlled style. The emotional weight each artist brings differs as well; Styles often emphasizes a more controlled emotional delivery, while Boone’s delivery feels more spontaneous and emotionally charged.

Musical Style and Genre

Overlapping Genres:

Both artists blend pop with elements of folk, rock, and even a touch of soul. This eclectic mix appeals to a similar demographic that appreciates both melodic songwriting and a soulful vocal quality. The Benson Boone Harry Styles comparison is strengthened by this shared genre fluidity.

• Examples: Songs like "In the Stars" (Boone) and "Golden" (Styles) both feature folk-pop elements, showcasing acoustic instrumentation and emotionally resonant melodies. The production styles, although distinctly different, both prioritize strong melodies and a sense of warmth.

Unique Elements:

While there’s an overlap, Boone leans more towards folk and country influences, evident in the instrumentation and lyrical themes in many of his songs. Styles, on the other hand, often incorporates more elements of funk and R&B, particularly in his stage performances and album production. Boone's songwriting often delves into more introspective and personal themes.

• Examples: Boone's collaborations often lean towards a more stripped-down, folk-oriented sound. In contrast, Styles’ collaborations showcase the diversity of the pop landscape through the inclusion of funk, R&B, and other styles. The lyrical content also varies; Boone often focuses on his personal experiences, whereas Styles might tackle more universal themes of love and relationships.

Stage Presence and Persona

Shared Charisma:

Both Benson Boone and Harry Styles possess undeniable stage charisma. They connect deeply with their audiences, creating an intimate atmosphere even in large venues. This shared ability to command a stage is a key component of the Benson Boone Harry Styles comparison.

• Observations: Both artists effectively engage with their fans during live performances, creating a sense of connection and energy. Their stage presence is captivating, drawing the audience into their musical world.

Differentiated Styles:

Despite shared charisma, Styles’ stage presence is often more flamboyant and theatrical. Boone, in contrast, projects a more introspective and grounded demeanor. These contrasting approaches create distinct performance experiences.

• Examples: Styles’ elaborate costumes and dynamic choreography stand in contrast to Boone’s more understated, yet equally captivating stage presence. Boone’s connection to the audience often feels more intimate and personal.

Songwriting and Lyrical Themes

Thematic Parallels:

Both artists explore themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth in their songwriting. The exploration of universal emotional experiences contributes to the Benson Boone Harry Styles comparison.

• Examples: Many songs from both artists’ catalogs grapple with the complexities of romantic relationships, examining both the joy and the pain associated with love. Both artists also demonstrate an understanding of the journey of personal growth.

Distinctive Perspectives:

Despite sharing thematic ground, Boone's songwriting often focuses on deeply personal experiences and vulnerabilities. This offers a more intimate and introspective viewpoint than Styles' sometimes more generalized romantic narratives.

• Examples: Boone's lyrics often reveal raw emotion and personal struggles, giving listeners a glimpse into his inner world. Styles' lyrics are often more polished and less explicitly personal, allowing for broader interpretation.

Conclusion:

While undeniable similarities exist between Benson Boone and Harry Styles' music, vocal styles, and stage presence, it's inaccurate to claim that Boone is simply copying Styles. Both artists operate within a shared musical sphere, drawing inspiration from similar sources. However, Boone's distinct vocal delivery, songwriting style, and overall persona create a unique artistic identity that sets him apart. Ultimately, while influences are evident, Boone carves his own path. Further analysis of their evolving discographies is needed to fully understand the trajectory of each artist. Continue the discussion—what are your thoughts on the Benson Boone Harry Styles comparison?