In recent years, Phoebe Bridgers has been an extremely influential artist.
Collaborating with artists like Taylor Swift, SZA, Lord Huron and Fiona Apple, she has paved the way for indie alternative music to become more mainstream. Recently holding the accolade for most Grammy wins at the 2024 annual Grammy awards, Bridgers has been celebrated heavily for her haunting vocals, unique style, and impact on the music industry.
Recently, many have noticed the resemblance between Bridger’s style and several other artists, many of said artists very new and up and coming. With some songs, the resemblance is so prominent that it is almost impossible to distinguish the two separate artists. Fans are calling it the “Phoebe Bridgers Effect” or the “Phoebe Bridgers” epidemic.
Sophomore Madison Felter notes that, “Phoebe Bridgers is a super talented singer,” and has songs for “everyone to listen and cry to” and while “using her as inspiration is okay, everyone should have their own brand and individualism.”
Artists like Searows, Alix Page, Delainey Bailey, Margot Liotta, Susannah Joffe and many more artists have been described as “Phoebe- Bridgers-ified,” and while they have some differences in style, it is evident that all of those artists have used Bridgers as a massive role model and inspiration.
Junior Tavian Boone agrees, saying that while he does not “listen to her music very much”, from what he has heard, “she makes very enjoyable music.” He describes her impact on indie alternative music as “undeniable,” agreeing that “a lot of recent artists try to emulate her style and take influence from her discography.”
Overall, Phoebe Bridger’s music resonates with people all over the world, connecting millions through her skillful manner of verbalizing feelings that everyone experiences into beautiful songs. While it’s not inherently a bad thing that many artists are trying to imitate her style, it’s important to remember that the best music is authentic and genuine, and remembering to distinguish the line between being influenced, and fully imitating.