Charli XCX: Reigning Queen of the ‘Brat’ Era
The Phenomenon of “Brat”
In the summer of 2024, British pop sensation Charli XCX released her sixth studio album, Brat, igniting a cultural wave that would resonate through the following years. The album soared to the top of the Billboard Dance/Electronic Albums chart, but more significant than its commercial success was its transformative impact on club culture and music fans alike.
Built on the pulsating rhythms of early 2000s English rave, Brat quickly morphed into more than just a collection of tracks. It became a movement. As fans clutched their neon accessories and donned vibrant styles reminiscent of Y2K fashion, an entire summer was named in its honor—Brat Summer. The album’s infectious spirit spawned a global tour with fellow pop star Troye Sivan and a collaborative remix project featuring 20 diverse artists.
Charli’s Cultural Impact
The core message of Brat resonated deeply, particularly among women and the LGBTQ+ community. Its themes of chaotic confidence and emotional authenticity inspired listeners to embrace their imperfections without shame. Sarah Cruz, a mechanical engineering major, spoke eloquently on the subject, declaring that Brat marked “a new era for Charli where she finally found her niche in the pop sphere.”
A video posted from Coachella 2025 showcases enthusiastic fans exhibiting their best “brat” struts, only amplifying the album’s cultural footprint. It’s a testament to the joyous and carefree nature of the music, creating a sense of community among people from all walks of life.
The Birth of Brat Summer
Brat quickly became synonymous with a period of exuberance, dubbed Brat Summer. This phenomenon witnessed Charli’s mesmerizing performance on Saturday Night Live, the viral #Apple dance trend, and even a surprising link to Vice President Kamala Harris’ election campaign. The sheer variety of moments that radiated from this album highlighted a quote from Charli herself: “Brat was the album that kept on giving.” Despite earlier hits like “Boom Clap” and “I Love It,” Charli XCX finally attained superstardom, cementing her influence on pop culture.
The Transition to The Moment
As Charli continued to explore the echoes of Brat, she ventured into new realms with her original film titled The Moment. This A24-produced mockumentary, directed by Aidan Zamiri, serves as both a reflection on her Brat tour and a satirical commentary on the current music industry. Premiering at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, the film encapsulates her triumphs and challenges in an evolving landscape.
The film stars Alexander Skarsgård as a filmmaker who intrudes on Charli’s creative process, critiquing and examining her artistic vision as rehearsals unfold. This blend of comedy and self-exploration not only entertains but also adds a layer of depth to the narrative of Brat.
Continuation of Charli’s Excellence
Charli’s innovative spirit is unmistakable in The Moment, echoing the message of her album while addressing the inherent pressures of fame. When asked about the film, Brody Wells, a motion picture arts major, expressed that it “made me want to listen to her music and dive deeper into her story.” This sentiment reflects a broader appeal, inviting both old fans and newcomers to engage with her work.
The Question of Legacy
Does Brat Summer signify the end of an era for Charli XCX? As she continues to evolve as an artist, releasing original music for the upcoming Wuthering Heights film adaptation and focusing on her new projects, it seems the spirit of Brat will linger. With The Moment, Charli successfully captures the ephemeral yet impactful nature of her musical journey experiences.
In a world where pop stars are often pigeonholed by their hits, Charli XCX remains an anomaly—consistently pushing boundaries and challenging the norms of pop music. As discussions around Brat and its consequences continue, one thing is clear: Charli XCX is far from finished; she is just getting started.
