Role Model and Jack Kays @ Irving Plaza
Happy-sounding dark music sounds like a paradox, but when pop artist Role Model (aka Tucker Pillsbury) sings, that’s just what he pulls off. And after hearing him live, I can say that he’s definitely found his groove.
Both of the singer’s 2017 EP Arizona in the Summer and his 2020 EP Our Little Angel deal with relationships, yet the three year difference between the albums shows. While keeping the same Role Model feel, the newer EP boasts of a more sophisticated writing style and catchier songs, suggesting that the singer has found his vibe.
Role Model also put out singles in between EPs such as his popular hits “Hello!” and “Notice Me” featuring Benee. While sounding upbeat and energetic, the 24 year old’s lyrics can sometimes take on a darker tone, such as his latest single “Death Wish.” The deep bassy chords contrast with the lighter opening vocals while the pre chorus rap catches up to the bass with its speed. The chorus then returns to lighter vocals. The song is mostly focused on the vocals and beat behind them. The pre chorus is what really draws the listener in. The fast-paced rap-like vibe to the parts provide a change of pace from the rest of the song, surprising the listener with its contrast. The video for the song drives home the almost sinister lyrics with its dark and moody themes.
ROLE MODEL - death wish (Official Music Video)
Role Model is currently on his headlining tour with his opener Jack Kays, a 22- year- old Ohio native. After completing culinary school, Kays continues to cook up beats. His music feels like a big mix of alternative, and pop with a splash of hip hop. Kays went viral when he shared original song snippets on TikTok.
His “Morbid Mind” garnered him millions of views. Released as a single in 2020, it was included in his 2021 EP Mixed Emotions. Kays’ lyrics throughout the album show transparency and vulnerability. The feelings come across in his voice. Passionate and pleading, Kays sings about personal topics like addiction, loneliness, and dealing with mental health.
Seeing him perform live was a treat. Hearing him sing songs off his ep live, his passion is contagious. At the start of his set, I could hear whispers in the crowd asking who he was. Not everyone was familiar with the viral TikTok singer. However, after his first song, I could see the crowd’s interest grow. Kays proved himself worth the listen, even giving us an unreleased song.
After Kays, the energy intensified when Role Model took the stage. Despite the song only being out for a day, the September 23rd crowd sang along with Role Model as he opened his show with “Death Wish.” The energy was palpable as people jumped up and down with the lively singer. Sticking to mostly newer songs, Role Model ran through tracks “hello,” “for the people in the back” “blind,” and many many more. Lastly, as it was New York, Role Model closed with “Girl in New York,” a 2017 song of his.
Check out Role Model’s music here. Jack Kays' music here. See photos from the concert here.