What is it About Addison Rae?

Ava Peters  

Music Journalist 

Addison Rae first rose to fame as a social media influencer. Her personality and dance videos quickly garnered millions of followers. Her social media presence provided her with a platform that launched her into a broader entertainment career. Many social media stars release music with typically little to no success. What about her is different? 

In 2021, she made her entry into the music industry with the release of her debut single Obsessed. She released her debut EP in 2023. Her first major singles, “Diet Pepsi” and “Aquamarine” were released in 2024 and received mixed reviews.  

Her music career gained major momentum following the release of her debut album, Addison, in 2025. Rolling Stone praised the flashes of vulnerability in songs like “Times Like These” and “In the Rain.” The Independent said, “Addison Rae may have started out as an internet personality, but Addison earns her a seat at the pop table. It marks the arrival of an artist who knows exactly what she’s doing.” 

However, not all the reviews are positive. The Needle drop said, “What Addison is doing here just feels borrowed from a bad ‘90s perfume commercial where models with a pouty face make these meaningless illusions to desire, elegance.” I’ve also seen reviewers note that the record felt artificial and heavily curated.  

I thought it was a record of very exciting music. Her debut album is not groundbreaking, but it is fun. It feels carefree, dreamy, and it doesn’t take itself too seriously. The production was great, and her vocals were good.  

She went on her first tour in 24 cities across North America, Europe, and Australia. I attended her Austin show in September. I truly loved it; she has an alluring on-stage presence that is intoxicating. She fully proved herself as a pop star in my eyes. It was enchanting and intimate.  

She performed in select shows on Lana Del Rey’s UK and Ireland tour. Opening for Lana represented a change in her career. It was a chance to be seen by larger crowds and to perform with an artist she publicly admires. In an interview with Zane Lowe, Addison called Lana “one of the greatest artists of our generation.” While not everyone’s reception was positive. Her tour shaped her into a more respected artist. 

Fans have linked her, for better or worse, to Britney Spears. The energy and performances are reminiscent of a 2000’s pop star. She solidified this comparison at Lollapalooza Argentina. Addison mixed her own tracks with Britney hits during her set. 

Her song Money is Everything offers an interesting mix of humor and self-awareness that makes it feel playful and satirical. Many people do not see it this way. It celebrates indulgence and the pursuit of money, which could easily be read as selfish. However, the delivery of the song leans into irony. Her over-the-top references make it clear that the track isn’t made to be taken seriously.  

I have noticed reviewers quickly disregard her music for the sole reason of her social media career. Dismissing her talent based on her past platform ignores her obvious dedication to learning what it means to be a pop star. Her live shows incorporate choreography and a clear aesthetic vision that proves she is committed to her music career. She has an intentionally crafted aesthetic that appears to contemporary audiences.