_(cropped).jpg/250px-Tucker_Pillsbury_(edited)_(cropped).jpg){kind=small}
_(cropped).jpg/1655px-Tucker_Pillsbury_(edited)_(cropped).jpg)
Community hub
0 subscribers8 pages, 0 posts
Recent from talks
All channels
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Contribute something
Welcome to the community hub built to collect knowledge and have discussions related to Role Model (singer).
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Role Model (singer)
View on Wikipediafrom Wikipedia
Key Information
_(cropped).jpg)
Tucker Harrington Pillsbury (born 1997), known professionally as Role Model (stylized in all caps), is an American singer-songwriter and former rapper. After self-releasing his debut extended play Arizona in the Summer in 2017, he earned a following online and was signed to Interscope Records in 2018. He later released two EPs–Oh, How Perfect (2019) and Our Little Angel (2020)–through Interscope and Polydor Records. His debut studio album, Rx, was released in 2022. His second album, Kansas Anymore, was released in 2024.
Early life
[edit]Tucker Pillsbury was born in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.[3] His father, Rusty, is a real estate appraiser, and his mother, Susan Pillsbury, is a special education teacher in Cape Elizabeth.[4] As a child, he was heavily inspired by Elvis Presley, and would perform to his family while dressed as him.[5] Throughout high school, he took an interest in film, and in 2014, he moved to Pittsburgh to major in film at Point Park University. During his freshman year, he broke his wrist due to a skiing accident at Sugarloaf Mountain, and later broke his wrist again due to a skateboarding accident.[6] While he was stuck in his dorm, two of his friends left music equipment in his dorm, prompting him to record several rap mixtapes while learning how to use Logic Pro.[7][3] He soon dropped out of college after his grades started to fall.[6]
Career
[edit]Role Model began rapping in 2016 under the mononym Tucker, and released his debut mixtape, Since When. He soon changed his stage name to Dillis, and self-released his debut album, Moth, in June 2016. That same month, he performed at a show at the Maine State Pier, and he later performed as an opener for Jordan Capozzi during her 2016 U.S. tour.[8][4]
In early 2017, he changed his stage name to Role Model and switched from rapping to singing. He self-released his debut extended play, Arizona in the Summer, in December 2017 after recording it in his closet, which earned him a following online.[9][4] After hearing the EP, rapper Mac Miller invited him to Los Angeles for the two to work together. He was signed to Interscope in 2018.[6] A music video for his song "Play the Part" was released in November 2018.[10] His single "Minimal" was released in May 2019 along with a music video.[11] He was featured on the song "Fucked Up, Kinda" from Julia Michaels's EP, Inner Monologue Part 2, released in June 2019.[12] He released the music video for his single, "Hello!", in October 2019. In November 2019, he released his second EP, Oh, How Perfect, in November 2019 through Interscope Records and Polydor Records.[13][7] His first headlining tour, the Far from Perfect Tour, took place throughout late 2019.[14]
In February 2020, he released an acoustic version of his song "Notice Me".[7] He released his third EP, Our Little Angel, in October 2020 through Polydor Records.[15] A music video for his song "Blind" was released in October 2020.[6] In July 2021, he released the single "Forever&more", and in September 2021, he released the single "Death Wish".[16][17] On February 18, 2022, he released the single "If Jesus Saves, She's My Type" alongside its music video.[18] The same day, Role Model also announced the title, the tracklist, and the official release date of his debut album. In March 2022, he released the album's third single "Neverletyougo" with a music video.[19] His debut album, Rx, was released on April 8, 2022.[20] The music video for "Rx", the title track, was released on April 8, 2022.[21]
On February 17, 2023, he released the single "A Little More Time" alongside an official music video co-directed by himself and Emma Chamberlain.[22]
He released his second album, Kansas Anymore, in July 2024.[23] He then released a deluxe edition of the album, Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye), in February 2025,[24] alongside the upbeat country-inspired single, "Sally, When the Wine Runs Out", which gained some popularity on TikTok after he teased the song pre-release.[25] The album, overall, received positive reviews from audience and critics alike, with ACRN Media praising Pillsbury for his growth and transition into a pop-folk sound.[26]
Beginning in September 2024, he performed as an opening act on Gracie Abrams' world tour for her second album, The Secret of Us.
On October 11, 2025, Role Model was the musical guest on an episode of Saturday Night Live.[27]
Artistry
[edit]Pillsbury allegedly took his name from Paul Rudd's character in the 2008 film Role Models.[3] However, during a June 2022 interview with Zach Sang, he confirmed this was a joke. He often plays acoustic guitar on his songs, and his music has been described as pop[28][7][14] and bedroom pop.[29][30] He has called Mac Miller an inspiration of his due to his influence on the city of Pittsburgh, and called meeting him "the most pivotal moment in [his] life".[5] Critics have described his lyrics, which discuss topics such as sex, mental health, and relationships,[28][6] as "relatable"[5] and "confessional".[14]
Personal life
[edit]Pillsbury has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.[31]
Throughout his career, he has been very open about mental health issues and his own depression.[29] As of 2019, he is based in Hollywood.[3]
He was in a relationship with social media personality and model Emma Chamberlain.[32] Their breakup was announced in October 2023.[33]
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]| Title | Details | Peak chart positions | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US [34] |
AUS [35] |
IRE [36] | ||||
| Rx |
|
— | — | — | ||
| Kansas Anymore |
|
82 | 27 | 69 | ||
| "—" denotes a release that did not register on that chart. | ||||||
Reissues
[edit]| Title | Details | Peak chart positions |
|---|---|---|
| NZ [37] | ||
| Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye) |
|
29 |
Extended plays
[edit]| Title | Details |
|---|---|
| Arizona in the Summer |
|
| Oh, How Perfect |
|
| Our Little Angel |
|
Singles
[edit]| Title | Year | Peak chart positions | Certifications | Album | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Bub. [38] |
US AAA |
US Alt. |
US Pop [39] |
US Rock [40] |
AUS [41] |
CAN [42] |
IRE [43] |
NZ Hot [44] |
UK [45] | |||||||
| "Cocaine Babe" | 2017 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Non-album singles | ||||
| "Puerto Rican" (featuring Patches) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "Girl in New York" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "I Don't Rly Like U" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Arizona in the Summer | |||||
| "Not a Fan" | 2018 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Non-album singles | ||||
| "Stolen Car" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "Play the Part" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "Six Speed" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "The Climb" | 2019 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||
| "Minimal" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "Hello!" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Oh, How Perfect | |||||
| "Notice Me" (acoustic) | 2020 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Non-album single | ||||
| "For the People in the Back" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Our Little Angel | |||||
| "Blind" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "Forever&More" | 2021 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Rx | ||||
| "Death Wish" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Non-album single | |||||
| "If Jesus Saves, She's My Type" | 2022 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Rx | ||||
| "Neverletyougo" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "Rx" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "Cross Your Mind"[46] | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Non-album singles | |||||
| "A Little More Time" | 2023 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||
| "Oh, Gemini" | 2024 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Kansas Anymore | ||||
| "Deeply Still in Love" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 31 | — | ||||||
| "Look At That Woman" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "Scumbag" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| "Sally, When the Wine Runs Out" | 2025 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 25 | 14 | 90 | 59 | 50 | 10 | 57 | Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye) | ||||
| "The Longest Goodbye" (solo or featuring Laufey) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 30 | — | ||||||
| "Saddle Again" | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Nobody Wants This | |||||
| "—" denotes a release that did not register on that chart. | ||||||||||||||||
Other charted songs
[edit]| Title | Year | Peak chart positions | Album | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IRE [48] |
NZ Hot [44] | |||
| "Writing's on the Wall" | 2025 | 58 | — | Kansas Anymore |
| "Old Recliners" | — | 37 | Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye) | |
| "Some Protector" | — | 35 | ||
Tours
[edit]- TOURx (2022)
- No Place Like Tour (2024–2025)
Supporting
- Malibu Nights World Tour (2019)
- The Secret of Us Tour (2024–2025)
References
[edit]- ^ Khan, Aamina Inayat (April 24, 2025). "When Role Model Met Sally: How Tucker Pillsbury Created a Phenomenon That's Attracted Renée Rapp, Jake Shane, and More". Teen Vogue. Retrieved September 28, 2025.
- ^ Tijerina, Daniela (July 19, 2024). "Role Model Is Ready to Move On". Vanity Fair. Retrieved September 28, 2025.
- ^ a b c d Lanham, Tom (December 11, 2019). "Role Model's music comes from loneliness". San Francisco Examiner. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ a b c Routhier, Ray (January 19, 2020). "Creative kid from Cape Elizabeth now on the rise as pop singer Role Model". Portland Press Herald. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ a b c "Get To Know... Role Model". DIY. November 13, 2019. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ a b c d e Oleinik, Marie (October 9, 2020). "On The Rise: Role Model". The Line of Best Fit. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ a b c d Wang, Steffanee (February 5, 2020). "Premiere: Role Model Goes Acoustic With "Notice Me"". Nylon. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ Oldman, Iain (June 29, 2016). "Point Park rapper 'Dillis' finds success from recent album". The Globe. Retrieved January 16, 2022.
- ^ Flynn, John (December 21, 2017). "Role Model releases melancholic 'Arizona In The Summer' EP". Dancing Astronaut. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ Gore, Sydney (November 8, 2018). "Role Model Proves He's the Ideal Leading Man in "Play the Part"". Highsnobiety. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ Aniftos, Rania (May 6, 2019). "Role Model Tries to Keep Life Simple On Reflective New Track 'Minimal': Listen". Billboard. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ Damoui, Yasmin (June 28, 2019). "Julia Michaels, Role Model, Scarypoolparty, Benee & More". Ones To Watch. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ Riddell, Rose (January 14, 2020). "Interview: 2020 Must-Know – Role Model". Coup De Main. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ a b c "Indie Spotlight: Role Model". BMI. November 18, 2019. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ "Role Model has released his fab new EP, 'our little angel'". Dork. October 22, 2020. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ Schmitt, Tyler (July 22, 2021). "Role Model returns with blissful new single 'forever&more'". Variance. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ Heidt, Dustin (September 23, 2021). "Role Model shares prickly new single 'death wish'". Variance. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ Robles, Jonathan (February 18, 2022). "Role Model is back with playful new single 'if jesus saves, she's my type'". Variance Magazine. Retrieved April 15, 2022.
- ^ Schube, Will (March 25, 2022). "Role Model Releases New Song And Video, 'neverletyougo'". uDiscover Music. Retrieved April 15, 2022.
- ^ Ackroyd, Stephen (April 8, 2022). "Role Model has released his debut album, 'Rx' – listen | Dork". readdork.com. Retrieved April 15, 2022.
- ^ Role Model – rx (Official Music Video), April 8, 2022, retrieved May 22, 2023
- ^ Schube, Will (February 17, 2023). "Role Model Returns With New Single 'A Little More Time'". uDiscover Music. Retrieved May 22, 2023.
- ^ "Kansas Anymore by ROLE MODEL". Genius. Retrieved February 27, 2025.
- ^ "Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye) by ROLE MODEL". Genius. Retrieved February 27, 2025.
- ^ ROLE MODEL – Sally, When The Wine Runs Out, retrieved February 27, 2025
- ^ "Album Review: Role Model – Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye)". ACRN.COM. February 21, 2025. Retrieved February 27, 2025.
- ^ Rice, Nicholas; Gayle, Latoya (October 12, 2025). "'SNL' Recap: Amy Poehler Hosts, Tina Fey Makes Surprise Appearance and Charli xcx Joins Musical Guest Role Model". People. Retrieved October 12, 2025.
- ^ a b Spratley, Bella. "Role Model". Metal. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ a b Chappelhow, Elli (October 14, 2019). "Role Model seeks refuge from isolation on new single 'hello!' – listen". Gigwise. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ De Paul, Skylar (June 6, 2020). "Role Model displays confidence yet sounds whiny on new single". The Daily Californian. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
- ^ Pillsbury, Tucker (December 15, 2022). "For The People In The Back: Role Model Interviewed | Features". Clash Magazine Music News, Reviews & Interviews. Alex Rigotti. Retrieved February 16, 2025.
- ^ Cartter, Eileen (February 14, 2023). "This Is Emma Chamberlain and Role Model's Hard Launch". GQ. Retrieved March 30, 2023.
- ^ Thompson, Mychal (October 8, 2023). "Emma Chamberlain And Role Model Reportedly Call It Quits After Three-Year Relationship". BuzzFeed. Retrieved October 9, 2023.
- ^ "Billboard 200: Week of August 2, 2025". Billboard. Retrieved February 26, 2025.
- ^ "ARIA Top 50 Albums Chart". Australian Recording Industry Association. November 17, 2025. Retrieved November 14, 2025.
- ^ "IRMA – Irish Charts (Week 46, 2025)". Irish Recorded Music Association. Retrieved November 15, 2025.
- ^ "NZ Top 40 Albums Chart". Recorded Music NZ. November 7, 2025. Retrieved November 7, 2025.
- ^ "Bubbling Under Hot 100: Week of October 25, 2025". Billboard. Retrieved October 22, 2025.
- ^ "Pop Airplay: Week of July 12, 2025". Billboard. Retrieved July 8, 2025.
- ^ "Hot Rock & Alternative Songs: Week of October 25, 2025". Billboard. Retrieved October 22, 2025.
- ^ "The ARIA Report: Week Commencing 17 November 2025". The ARIA Report. No. 1863. Australian Recording Industry Association. November 17, 2025. p. 4.
- ^ "Canadian Hot 100: October 25, 2025". Billboard. Retrieved October 21, 2025.
- ^ "IRMA – Irish Charts (Week 15, 2025)". Irish Recorded Music Association. Retrieved April 12, 2025.
- ^ a b Peaks on the NZ Hot Singles Chart:
- "Deeply Still in Love": "NZ Hot Singles Chart". Recorded Music NZ. May 20, 2024. Retrieved May 17, 2024.
- "Sally, When the Wine Runs Out", "Old Recliners", "Some Protector" and "The Longest Goodbye": "NZ Hot Singles Chart". Recorded Music NZ. February 21, 2025. Retrieved February 22, 2025.
- ^ "Official Singles Chart Top 100 (14 November 2025 – 20 November 2025". Official Charts Company. Retrieved November 15, 2025.
- ^ Prakopcyk, Daniel (August 26, 2022). "Role Model Drops New Single 'Cross Your Mind'". DIY. Retrieved September 27, 2022.
- ^ "American single certifications – Role Model". Recording Industry Association of America. Retrieved October 14, 2025.
- ^ "IRMA – Irish Charts (Week 46, 2025)". Irish Recorded Music Association. Retrieved November 15, 2025.
| International | |
|---|---|
| National | |
| Artists | |
Role Model (singer)
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Early life
Upbringing and family
Tucker Harrington Pillsbury, known professionally as Role Model, was born on May 15, 1997, and raised in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, a coastal suburb near Portland.[13] He grew up in this small beach town, which provided a quiet, suburban environment characterized by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and limited exposure to urban cultural scenes.[5] Pillsbury, the youngest of three children, was raised by his parents, Rusty Pillsbury, a real estate appraiser, and Susan Pillsbury, a special education teacher, in a stable household that emphasized creativity and family bonding.[1][14] His upbringing in middle-class suburban Maine fostered a sense of nostalgia for small-town life, which later permeated his songwriting themes of home and simplicity.[15] As a child, Pillsbury engaged in artistic hobbies such as writing poetry, crafting imaginative stories, drawing, and painting, reflecting the supportive creative atmosphere at home.[14] The coastal lifestyle of Cape Elizabeth, with its beaches and seasonal rhythms, instilled an appreciation for nature and introspection that influenced his worldview.[5] His early exposure to music came through his parents' record collection, featuring classic artists like Jackson Browne, Neil Young, Van Morrison, Peter Frampton, and Lou Reed, which shaped his initial appreciation for singer-songwriter styles.[16][14] Pillsbury was particularly obsessed with Elvis Presley as a child, often performing for his family while dressed as the icon.[16] This familial musical environment laid the groundwork for his later transition into songwriting.[13]Education and early influences
Tucker Pillsbury graduated from Cape Elizabeth High School in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, in 2014. During his high school years, he showed little interest in music, instead channeling his creativity into filmmaking and video production, activities encouraged by his family. He did not participate in school chorus, theater, or play any instruments, though he was exposed at home to classic rock and folk artists such as the Beatles, Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones, and Elvis Presley, which subtly shaped his appreciation for songwriting.[14] Pillsbury's initial forays into music were self-taught and experimental. In 2016, he released a mixtape titled Since When under his own name and a debut album, Moth, as the alias DILLIS. These efforts reflected his early draw to hip-hop's raw energy but soon felt inauthentic, prompting introspection during a period of isolation and mild depression.[4][17][18] In the fall of 2016, Pillsbury enrolled at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, majoring in film production. His time there was brief and tumultuous; after suffering injuries from skiing and skateboarding accidents during his freshman year, including breaking his wrist twice, he grew disillusioned with academics and dropped out in 2017 to pursue music full-time. While at university, he immersed himself in Pittsburgh's vibrant rap scene, influenced by local icons like Wiz Khalifa and Mac Miller.[4][17] A pivotal shift occurred in early 2017 when Pillsbury abandoned rapping entirely, deleting his SoundCloud rap catalog and transitioning to melodic singing and indie pop sensibilities. This evolution was catalyzed by a desire for more personal expression, leading him to adopt the stage name Role Model, chosen ironically during a dark period of drinking and drugs as the opposite of what he felt he embodied—and release his debut EP, Arizona in the Summer, which blended confessional lyrics with alt-pop production. Later that year, his independent track "stolen car" caught the attention of Mac Miller's manager, leading to an invitation from Mac Miller to collaborate and his relocation to Los Angeles in 2018 to develop his sound further.[17][4][19][20]Career
2017–2020: Debut releases and breakthrough
In 2017, Tucker Pillsbury, performing under the stage name Role Model, self-released his debut EP Arizona in the Summer after gaining initial attention by uploading demos to platforms like SoundCloud.[21] The four-track project, released in December 2017, captured themes of young love, heartbreak, and nostalgic summer romance through melancholic indie-pop soundscapes, with standout tracks like "I Think I Like When It Rains" evoking introspective vulnerability.[22][23] This independent release helped build an early online following, leading to his signing with Interscope Records in 2018.[14] Building on this momentum, Role Model released his follow-up EP oh, how perfect on November 13, 2019, via Interscope, expanding his sound with feverish indie angst and suburban daydreams across six tracks. The project featured the single "a perfect girl," which highlighted his witty, self-deprecating songwriting about idealized relationships and personal insecurities.[24] In late 2019, he embarked on his first U.S. headlining tour, the Far from Perfect Tour, while also opening for artists like LANY and Omar Apollo, further solidifying his live presence and fanbase.[25][26] The breakthrough came with the 2020 EP our little angel, released on October 23, which marked a more polished evolution in his alternative-pop style and included the track "gotta love the long nights," a reflective piece on late-night introspection and fleeting connections.[27] The EP's lead single "blind" achieved viral success, particularly through remixes and user-generated content on TikTok, propelling it to over 117 million Spotify streams by 2024 and establishing Role Model as an emerging voice in indie-pop.[28] This surge in popularity, driven by the song's relatable themes of emotional turmoil, helped our little angel gain traction on emerging artist charts and cemented his pre-mainstream buzz.[26]2021–2023: Rx and rising fame
In 2021, Role Model released two key singles leading up to his debut album: "forever&more" on July 22, accompanied by an official music video that portrays a narrative of obsessive love and ensuing heartbreak through cinematic visuals of intimacy and emotional turmoil, and "death wish" on September 22, which explored themes of self-destructive romance.[29][30] These tracks built on his earlier viral success on TikTok from previous years, helping to expand his audience with their blend of alt-pop production and confessional lyrics.[31] Role Model's debut studio album, Rx, arrived on April 8, 2022, via Interscope Records, featuring 11 tracks executive produced by longtime collaborator Spencer Stewart.[32] The project delved into love as an addictive force, with standout songs like "girl in a china shop," a raw reflection on fragile relationships, and "cocaine," which employs addiction metaphors to depict the highs and lows of infatuation and dependency.[33] Additional promotional singles included "die for my bitch" in February 2022 and "if jesus saves, she's my type" in March 2022, both of which highlighted his evolving sound mixing indie pop with introspective storytelling. To support the release, Role Model launched the TOURx 2022 world tour in May, spanning North America, Europe, and festival appearances like Coachella, where he performed selections from Rx to sold-out crowds.[34] The album's rollout marked a period of rising fame for Role Model, as he garnered increased media attention and a growing online presence, with his Instagram following surpassing 800,000 by late 2023 amid consistent engagement from fans drawn to his relatable persona.[35] Collaborations, such as live performances and shared bills with artists in the alt-pop scene, further amplified his visibility during the tour. However, by 2023, Role Model faced personal challenges, including a quarter-life crisis triggered by homesickness and the pressures of fame, which prompted a creative shift toward more introspective, folk-influenced songwriting in subsequent work.[3]2024–present: Kansas Anymore and recent developments
In July 2024, Role Model released his second studio album, Kansas Anymore, via Interscope Records. The 13-track project drew inspiration from his breakup with influencer Emma Chamberlain and themes of homesickness and self-redefinition, marking a shift toward more folk-tinged, introspective songwriting compared to the party-driven energy of his debut Rx. The lead single, "Sally, When The Wine Runs Out," emerged as a viral hit, surpassing 146 million streams on Spotify by late 2025 and topping the Adult Alternative Airplay chart. Additional singles "Look At That Woman" and "Writing's On The Wall," both released in 2024, further propelled the album's promotion, with the former accumulating over 82 million Spotify streams. The album debuted at No. 18 on the Billboard Top Alternative Albums chart and later peaked at No. 10 there, while entering the Billboard 200. In February 2025, Role Model issued a deluxe edition titled Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye), expanding the tracklist to 17 songs with four new additions that deepened explorations of attachment and closure; it included a collaboration with Laufey on the title track, released as a single with an accompanying music video in July 2025. The expanded release amplified the album's emotional resonance, aligning with Role Model's ongoing tour, the No Place Like Tour, which sold over 90,000 tickets globally. Throughout 2025, Role Model continued building momentum with high-profile media appearances and honors, including a performance as musical guest on Saturday Night Live on October 11. In a November 2025 People interview, he revealed he had been actively writing new material, expressing hope for a third album by fall 2026. That same month, he made history as People's first-ever Sexiest Man Alive centerfold, a nod to his rising profile following a runner-up finish to Harry Styles in the 2024 Sexiest Musician readers' poll. He also participated in Rolling Stone's Musicians on Musicians series alongside María Zardoya of The Marías, where they discussed navigating breakout success, hit singles, and processing heartbreak. Despite widespread anticipation, Role Model was notably overlooked in the 2026 Grammy nominations announced in November 2025, with critics highlighting the snub for Best New Artist given his year's breakthroughs. On the business front, he expanded his merchandise line through the official store, introducing album-specific vinyl variants, tour-exclusive apparel, and accessories tied to Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye) to engage fans during live performances.Artistry
Musical style and evolution
Role Model's core musical style blends indie pop with alt-pop and pop rock elements, characterized by falsetto vocals and guitar-driven melodies that emphasize emotional delivery.[36][37][38] His songs often feature layered instrumentation that balances intimacy and catchiness, drawing from alternative singer-songwriter traditions to create accessible, heartfelt tracks.[39] Pillsbury's style evolved significantly from his early career, beginning with rap-infused tracks in 2017 before shifting to bedroom pop sounds during 2019–2020, as heard in his debut EP experimentation.[40] By the time of his 2022 debut album Rx, the music adopted a more polished alt-pop aesthetic with upbeat, guitar-led arrangements produced in collaboration with Spencer Stewart.[41] This progression continued on the 2024 album Kansas Anymore, where he incorporated acoustic elements and country-tinged indie-folk influences, marking a departure toward folksier sincerity.[42] The 2025 deluxe edition, Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye), further expanded this with additional introspective tracks reinforcing the folk-pop direction. Production techniques have also advanced over time, with early works relying on lo-fi, bedroom-style recording before embracing fuller arrangements. Post-2022, Role Model increasingly utilized live instrumentation, including acoustic guitars, bass, and percussion, in partnership with producers like Noah Conrad for Kansas Anymore.[43] Critics have praised this evolution for its accessibility and confidence, noting the well-produced pop-rock quality that makes his genre-blending approachable without sacrificing emotional depth.[42][44]Themes and songwriting
Role Model's lyrics frequently explore romantic vulnerability and the complexities of love, often drawing from personal experiences of infatuation, intimacy, and emotional exposure. In his debut album Rx (2022), tracks like "rx" and "die for my bitch" delve into self-deprecating confessions of obsession and sexual desire, portraying love as an addictive force that exposes one's flaws.[20] This vulnerability extends to critiques of toxic masculinity, as seen in earlier work where Pillsbury challenges norms like emotional suppression, emphasizing authenticity over societal expectations of perfection.[5] Heartbreak emerges as a central motif, particularly in his sophomore album Kansas Anymore (2024), which chronicles the aftermath of a high-profile breakup through nostalgic reflections on lost youth and home. Songs such as "Scumbag" capture fleeting connections and post-separation longing, blending raw grief with wistful reminiscences of simpler times.[45] Mental health struggles, including anxiety and depression, recur across his discography, framed as integral to personal growth rather than stigma, resonating with themes of imperfection as a form of beauty.[5] Pillsbury's songwriting process is deeply autobiographical, often likened to journaling, where he transforms real-life events into cohesive narratives without heavy reliance on external co-writers. For Kansas Anymore, he returned to a more introspective, roots-oriented approach, writing alone during a period of isolation to process emotions directly, contrasting the collaborative energy of Rx.[46] This method prioritizes emotional honesty, juxtaposing dark lyrical content with upbeat melodies to create accessible pop that invites listeners into his psyche.[5] Influences on his songwriting include the late rapper Mac Miller, whose mentorship shaped Pillsbury's blend of introspection and storytelling, evident in early rap-infused verses that evolved into folk-leaning confessions.[5] His initial forays, like the 2017 EP Arizona in the Summer, reflect brooding emotions tied to young love and desire, setting a foundation for later maturity.[47] Over time, Pillsbury's themes have shifted from the lighter, synth-driven explorations of crushes and self-doubt in early releases to deeper examinations of mental health and relational fallout in Rx and beyond, marking a progression toward folk-pop introspection.[48] This evolution mirrors his personal growth, moving from playful relational dynamics to mature reckonings with loss and identity.[49] Critics have praised his lyrics for their relatability, particularly in addressing Gen-Z anxieties around love and vulnerability; Pitchfork noted Kansas Anymore's confident handling of breakup narratives as a "compact, well-produced pop-rock record," while GQ highlighted the self-analytical depth in Rx as refreshingly honest.[42][20]Personal life
Relationships
Pillsbury has spoken about his limited romantic experiences prior to fame, noting that college-era relationships during his time at Point Park University subtly influenced the introspective themes in his early extended plays, such as Arizona in the Summer, though he has kept details private to respect those involved.[20][4] Pillsbury's most prominent relationship was with YouTuber and entrepreneur Emma Chamberlain, which began in late 2020 after they had been texting intermittently since 2019; he has described it as his first serious girlfriend.[50][51] The couple maintained privacy initially, with fans speculating based on subtle social media hints, before hard-launching their romance on Valentine's Day 2023 via a joint GQ Hype photoshoot and interview.[52][53] Their partnership inspired elements of Pillsbury's 2022 album Rx, including the track "Blind," and they made joint appearances at events like the 2022 Vanity Fair Oscar Party.[54][20] The relationship ended amicably in October 2023 after nearly three years, with Pillsbury later expressing gratitude for the personal growth it fostered while channeling the breakup into his 2024 album Kansas Anymore, which explores themes of heartbreak and self-reflection.[55][45] Chamberlain's influence extended to Pillsbury's evolving fashion sense and content creation style during their time together, as seen in coordinated social media posts and her occasional cameos in his videos.[3] As of November 2025, Pillsbury is single, having focused on his music career and solo endeavors following the split, with no confirmed new romantic partnerships.[56][54] Throughout his career, Pillsbury has emphasized maintaining boundaries around his personal life, stating in interviews that while he draws from real experiences in his songwriting, he avoids oversharing intimate details to protect his privacy amid public scrutiny.[3][5]Public image and advocacy
Tucker Pillsbury, known professionally as Role Model, has cultivated a public image as the modern "boy next door," characterized by his approachable, relatable demeanor and blend of indie pop vulnerability with everyday charm.[57] This persona is amplified through his active presence on social media, where he engages followers with candid glimpses into his life, amassing over 1 million on Instagram and more than 827,000 on TikTok as of late 2025.[58] His humorous and self-deprecating online campaigns, such as the aggressive 2024 push for People's Sexiest Musician Alive Readers' Choice Poll—complete with custom T-shirts and viral pleas that ultimately placed him as runner-up to Harry Styles—further endeared him to fans while highlighting his lighthearted authenticity.[59][60][61] In November 2025, Pillsbury's visibility peaked when he was named People's first-ever Sexiest Man Alive centerfold, a milestone that followed his prior poll efforts and featured a playful, nearly nude photoshoot emphasizing his unpretentious appeal.[62][63] That same year, he appeared in Rolling Stone's Musicians on Musicians series, where his conversation with María Zardoya of The Marías delved into personal growth, heartbreak, and artistic breakthroughs, underscoring his commitment to genuine storytelling over polished facades.[64] Pillsbury has been vocal about mental health, openly discussing his experiences with a quarter-life crisis in 2023 and 2024, including feelings of uncertainty during a transitional period that influenced his songwriting.[3] Earlier reflections in interviews trace his advocacy back to addressing anxiety, depression, and personal imperfections as sources of strength, themes woven into his music since at least 2020.[5][65] His lyrics often challenge toxic masculinity, as seen in tracks from his 2020 EP that embrace self-acceptance and reject rigid gender norms, positioning him as a proponent of emotional vulnerability in male artistry.[66] Despite identifying as straight, Pillsbury has emerged as a queer icon through his emotionally raw lyrics on love and identity, fostering support within LGBTQ+ communities without documented direct donations or formal endorsements.[67] Fan engagement forms a cornerstone of Pillsbury's image, with direct interactions at concerts—such as inviting audience members onstage for personalized "Sally" moments during his 2025 tour—creating intimate, celebratory experiences that build loyalty.[49] His merchandise, sold through an official store featuring tour-inspired apparel and accessories, emphasizes fan connection, including items tied to viral campaigns that promote positivity and shared fandom.[68][60] While largely controversy-free, Pillsbury faced minor backlash in 2024 over his enthusiastic response to losing the People's poll, with some online criticism labeling his promotional style as overly performative; he addressed such perceptions lightheartedly in subsequent podcasts and interviews, reaffirming his focus on authentic fan relationships.[61][69]Discography
Studio albums
Role Model's debut studio album, Rx, was released on April 8, 2022, through Interscope Records.[33] Consisting of 11 tracks, the project delves into themes of romantic obsession, heartbreak, and emotional healing, often framing love as an addictive "prescription" akin to a drug.[70] Standout tracks include "forever&more," a nostalgic reflection on enduring affection, and "die for my bitch," which captures intense devotion with raw, confessional lyrics.[71] Role Model served as executive producer, handling bass, drum programming, piano, and synthesizer elements, while collaborating with producers like Spencer Stewart on several songs.[72] The album marked a sonic shift toward alternative pop with edgier production compared to his earlier work, blending indie influences and electronic touches.[73] It received positive attention for its introspective songwriting, though specific chart peaks on major lists like the Billboard 200 remain unverified in primary sources. Role Model's sophomore effort, Kansas Anymore, arrived on July 19, 2024, via Interscope Records.[74] The 13-track record draws inspiration from the singer's breakup with influencer Emma Chamberlain, exploring grief, self-discovery, and the longing for home amid personal loss.[75] Notable highlights include "Deeply Still In Love," which grapples with lingering emotions post-separation.[76] Production was led by Noah Conrad, with additional contributions from Mason Stoops and Harrison Whitford, incorporating acoustic guitars, organs, and subtle country elements for a more mature, rootsy sound.[76] Commercially, Kansas Anymore debuted at No. 18 on the Billboard Top Alternative Albums chart, later climbing to No. 10, and generated over 282,000 equivalent album units in the U.S. by late 2025.[77] Critics praised its emotional depth but noted its competent yet occasionally cutesy execution, with Pitchfork assigning a 5.8 out of 10.[42] In February 2025, an expanded deluxe edition, Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye), was issued, adding four bonus tracks including a cover of "Some Protector" and new originals like "Old Recliners," available initially on vinyl for Record Store Day's Black Friday event.[9] "Sally, When The Wine Runs Out," from this deluxe edition, is a folk-tinged anthem about fleeting romance that topped the Billboard Adult Alternative Airplay chart.[77]Extended plays and singles
Role Model began his recording career with self-released material before signing with Interscope Records, using extended plays (EPs) as platforms to develop his indie pop sound and build an online following. His debut EP, Arizona in the Summer, released on January 30, 2017, featured four tracks—"I Don't Rly Like U," "Stolen Car," "Super Model," and "Never Give Up"—and served as an introduction to his melancholic, emotionally driven style, drawing from personal experiences of love and heartbreak.[22] This project helped establish his presence in the indie scene, leading to his major-label deal in 2018.[23] In November 2019, Role Model released his second EP, oh, how perfect, through Interscope Records, containing five tracks: "gucci chair," "hello!," "that's just how it goes," "notice me (feat. BENEE)," and "say it first." The EP expanded on his confessional songwriting with a blend of indie pop and R&B influences, marking a step toward broader accessibility and featuring collaborations that highlighted his growing network in the music industry.[78] It played a key role in transitioning from underground buzz to mainstream exposure, with tracks like "notice me" gaining traction on streaming platforms. His third EP, our little angel, arrived on October 21, 2020, also via Interscope, with six tracks: "alive," "for the people in the back," "blind," "doyouseeit," "going out," and "better." This release boosted his visibility through social media, particularly TikTok, where songs like "going out" contributed to viral moments and increased fan engagement, solidifying his appeal to younger audiences.[27] The EP's introspective themes on relationships and self-reflection further propelled his career momentum leading into full-length albums. Beyond EPs, Role Model has released several standout non-album singles that have charted and amassed significant streams, underscoring his evolution toward commercial success. "blind," initially from our little angel but promoted as a standalone single in 2020, has exceeded 139 million Spotify streams as of November 2025, becoming a fan favorite for its raw portrayal of infatuation and vulnerability.[79] In 2025, Role Model achieved his first Billboard chart-topper with "Sally, When The Wine Runs Out," which reached No. 1 on the Adult Alternative Airplay chart on September 13, marking a breakthrough in radio play and live performance virality.[77] That same year, "Look At That Woman" garnered over 84 million Spotify streams as of November 2025, praised for its upbeat introspection, while "Writing's On The Wall" followed with over 50 million streams, contributing to the promotional cycle for his sophomore album.[79] These singles highlight his shift toward more polished production while retaining emotional depth, driving his rising fame in the alternative pop landscape.| Extended Plays | Release Date | Label | Tracks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona in the Summer | January 30, 2017 | Self-released | 4 |
| oh, how perfect | November 13, 2019 | Interscope | 5 |
| our little angel | October 21, 2020 | Interscope | 6 |
| Selected Singles | Release Year | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| blind | 2020 | 139+ million Spotify streams (as of November 2025) |
| Sally, When The Wine Runs Out | 2025 | No. 1 on Adult Alternative Airplay (September 13, 2025) |
| Look At That Woman | 2024 | 84+ million Spotify streams (as of November 2025) |
| Writing's On The Wall | 2024 | 50+ million Spotify streams (as of November 2025) |