Role Model Captivates Brooklyn Paramount with Intimate Show and Embracing Fan Culture
BROOKLYN, N.Y. – Role Model, the artist formerly known as Tucker Pillsbury, transformed Brooklyn Paramount into a haven for heartfelt melodies and shared experiences on Saturday night. The concert was a testament to Role Model’s evolution from a bedroom pop sensation to a folksy storyteller, resonating with a devoted fanbase who eagerly participated in his playful stage persona.
Role Model’s affinity for humor and self-awareness was evident throughout the show, even extending to signing setlists with the names of pop icons such as Sabrina Carpenter, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Taylor Swift. Some might perceive this as a calculated attempt at attention, but the Brooklyn crowd understood the satire, embracing it with enthusiasm. In New York, he playfully adopted the identities of Ed Sheeran, Tate McRae, and Maroon 5, further blurring the lines between parody and genuine performance.
The cowboy hat-wearing artist, who previously opened for Gracie Abrams on her "The Secret of Us" tour, has undergone a significant artistic shift. Departing from the synth-laden sounds of his debut album, "Rx," Role Model embraced the guitar for his second collection, "Kansas Anymore," venturing into the indie-folk genre popularized by artists like Noah Kahan and Lizzy McAlpine.
At 27, Role Model’s songwriting delves into more mature themes. While "Rx" explored the initial euphoria of falling in love (specifically, with YouTube personality Emma Chamberlain), "Kansas Anymore" documents the complexities of heartbreak and homesickness following their separation. This new material showcases a vulnerability and depth that resonated deeply with the audience.
“Kansas Anymore’ is very much about heartbreak, but I didn’t want to write about that in a nasty, immature, angry sort of way,” Role Model told MTV last August. This sentiment permeated the entire performance, transforming the venue into a space where shared pain became a source of collective strength.
The cathartic power of Role Model’s music was palpable as nearly 3,000 voices joined together in unison, singing the poignant lyrics of "I dont think you love me anymore / And I dont think I love you anymore / But I dont think Ill ever be so sure." The atmosphere encouraged emotional expression, with fans smiling through the pain, finding solace in the shared experience.
The energy leading up to Role Model’s set was electric. Dedicated fans, some as young as 14, had camped out since 5 a.m. to secure coveted spots along the barricade. When Role Model finally took the stage, the opening riffs of "Writings On the Wall" unleashed a wave of ecstatic screams, followed by the crowd passionately singing along to every word.
The setlist comprised 15 songs primarily from "Kansas Anymore," including deluxe tracks. He omitted any material from "Rx" and instead incorporated a unique cover of The 1975’s "Somebody Else," alongside two tracks from his early EPs: "thats just how it goes" and "blind."
Role Model’s playful personality shone through in his banter with the audience. Referencing his (fictional) defeat in the 2024 "People’s Sexiest Man Alive" competition, he humorously declared his new ambition: a Calvin Klein campaign. However, his voice faltered throughout the night, leading him to jokingly apologize. "Hey, Calvin Klein, Im usually singing and doing all these Ariana Grande runs. I promise Im better," he quipped, before renaming the evening "the Temu Role Model show."
Beyond the jokes, it was clear that Role Model genuinely appreciates his fans. He fostered a sense of camaraderie, engaging in playful teasing and uplifting interactions. He has cultivated a collection of inside jokes related to the current album cycle, further strengthening the bond with his followers.
In an era where some male artists have distanced themselves from the "fangirl" label, Role Model’s welcoming embrace of his fans’ affection felt particularly refreshing. His sincerity created a safe and inclusive environment where fans could express their passion without reservation.
Midway through "Compromise," the last slow song of the evening, Role Model paused to express his heartfelt gratitude. "I know I make a lot of jokes, so I’ll be serious for one second," he began. "I know what it takes to come to concerts. I know some of you wait all day long … some of you drive here or fly here (or) take the train … some of you skip work and you skip school. Whatever youre missing out on to be here does not go unnoticed and I genuinely love you for doing it."
For the penultimate song, "Sally, When the Wine Runs Out," Role Model continued his tradition of selecting a fan to be his "Sally" for the night. Similar to Justin Bieber’s "One Less Lonely Girl" routine, a lucky individual was invited onstage to dance with the artist. Previous "Sallys" have included singer-songwriter Ashe, influencer Jake Shane, and podcaster Grace O’Malley.
On Saturday, the chosen fan joined Role Model for a "diva-off," which involved dancing and passionately singing the lyrics to "Heard through the grapevine she can be a diva / Cold like Minnesota / Hotter than a fever." The crowd roared their approval as the duo showcased their energetic moves.
As Role Model began to leave the stage, he playfully remembered that he had "forgotten something." He launched into "Deeply Still in Love," the lead single from "Kansas Anymore" and the final song of the night. This upbeat track served as a fitting conclusion, bringing the performance full circle and allowing Role Model to end the night screaming, "Im sorry but Im deeply still in love with you." The concert was a powerful reminder of the connection between artist and audience, and the healing power of music.
