Is Benson Boone Copying Harry Styles? A Comparison Of Their Music

Hugo van Dijk

5 min read

Post on May 09, 2025

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Vocal Style and Delivery

Comparing Vocal Timbres and Techniques

Both Benson Boone and Harry Styles possess distinctive vocal timbres, characterized by a certain warmth and vulnerability. While Boone's voice might be described as slightly raspier and less polished than Styles', they both employ similar vocal techniques, including breathy phrasing and a nuanced use of dynamics. This creates a similar emotional impact in their songs.

• Boone: His performance in "In the Stars" showcases his ability to build intensity gradually, mirroring Styles' approach in songs like "Adore You."
• Styles: The soaring high notes in "Watermelon Sugar" demonstrate a vocal control that echoes in Boone's emotional delivery in "Ghost Town."
• Similarities: Both artists utilize a similar range and employ falsetto effectively, adding a delicate texture to their music.

Emotional Resonance and Performance Style

Beyond vocal technique, both artists excel at conveying deep emotion through their performances. Their music often delves into themes of heartbreak, longing, and self-discovery, resonating deeply with listeners. They both command the stage with a captivating presence, connecting intimately with their audiences.

• Boone: His live performances often display raw vulnerability, mirroring the intimate connection Styles creates with his fans.
• Styles: Styles’ ability to engage his audience is legendary, a characteristic frequently mirrored in Boone's more established performances.
• Similarities: Both artists utilize subtle body language and facial expressions to enhance the emotional impact of their songs, creating an immersive experience for the listener. Whether it is the slight tremor in their voices or a poignant glance, they expertly translate emotion.

Songwriting and Musical Structure

Melody and Harmony Comparisons

A noticeable similarity between Boone and Styles lies in their melodic structures. Both artists frequently use major and minor keys, creating catchy melodies with memorable hooks. Harmonic progressions often incorporate similar chord changes, creating a similar sonic palette.

• Boone: The melodic progression in "Better Alone" bears a resemblance to the structure found in several of Styles' earlier works.
• Styles: The use of simple, yet effective chord changes in "Golden" is mirrored in some of Boone's more upbeat tracks.
• Similarities: Both artists demonstrate a knack for creating anthemic choruses with memorable melodies that stay with the listener long after the song ends.

Lyrical Themes and Storytelling

The lyrical content of Boone and Styles’ songs often explores similar themes. Both artists frequently touch on experiences of love, loss, self-reflection, and the search for identity – universal themes that resonate with a broad audience. While their lyrical styles may differ slightly, the underlying emotional core is strikingly similar.

• Boone: The reflective lyrics in "Heartbreak Anniversary" echo Styles' exploration of heartbreak and personal growth in songs like "Sign of the Times."
• Styles: Styles' use of evocative imagery in his songwriting finds a parallel in Boone's ability to paint vivid pictures through his lyrics.
• Similarities: Both artists utilize personal experiences as the foundation for their storytelling, resulting in music that feels authentic and deeply felt.

Genre and Musical Influences

Defining Their Musical Genres

Both Benson Boone and Harry Styles primarily operate within the pop genre, drawing influences from a variety of sources. While Styles shows a broader range incorporating elements of rock and folk, Boone’s sound leans more towards contemporary pop with hints of folk and soft rock.

• Boone: Benson Boone's music fits neatly within the contemporary pop genre, with a noticeable folk-pop influence.
• Styles: Harry Styles draws from a wider range of influences, incorporating elements of rock, folk, and even a touch of funk into his music.
• Similarities: Both fall under the pop umbrella but show a flexibility to incorporate other genres, creating a sophisticated soundscape.

The Role of Production and Arrangement

The production style of both artists contributes significantly to their overall sound. Both frequently utilize layered instrumentation, creating a full and rich sonic texture. While their specific production techniques may vary slightly, the overall aesthetic remains remarkably similar.

• Boone: His use of layered vocals and atmospheric instrumentation adds depth and texture to his music.
• Styles: Styles’ work is characterized by a polished, yet organic sound, often incorporating vintage instrumentation and modern production techniques.
• Similarities: The choice of instruments and production techniques contribute significantly to the overall similarity in the feel and texture of their music.

Conclusion

While Benson Boone and Harry Styles share undeniable similarities in their vocal style, songwriting approach, and overall musical aesthetic, determining whether this constitutes copying requires careful consideration. The evidence suggests strong artistic influences, but definitive claims of plagiarism would necessitate more concrete proof. The similarities in their choice of instrumentation, lyrical themes, and emotional depth are striking, highlighting a shared musical sensibility. However, each artist maintains a distinct personality and vocal style.

What do you think? Is Benson Boone's sound influenced by Harry Styles? Is it a simple case of sharing similar musical influences, or something more? Let us know in the comments below! Share your thoughts on the Benson Boone vs Harry Styles debate, and discuss Benson Boone's musical influences further. We’d love to hear your perspective on comparing Benson Boone and Harry Styles!