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Charli XCX opens up on leaving dance music behind

The 'Boom Clap' hitmaker Charli XCX hints at new rock era, calling dance music creatively limiting

By Ilsa Fatima April 17, 2026
Charli XCX opens up on leaving dance music behind
Charli XCX opens up on leaving dance music behind

Charli XCX has surprised fans with a bold shift, revealing her upcoming Paris made album leans into rock rather than dance music.

For the unversed, the songstress said the creative process was very fast and intense, and the place they worked in helped shape the album.

Moreover, speaking to British Vogue, she stated, “We knew it would be this very hectic, rich time and we like creating in that kind of atmosphere.”

The 33-year-old singer further explained her shift away from club-focused music, adding, “I think the dance floor is dead, so now we’re making rock music...”

Elsewhere in the interview, she highlighted how her lifestyle feeds into her songwriting process, saying, 

“Being out in the world at night, experiencing things as I’m writing, is really helpful to my process. If I’d made another album that felt more dance-leaning, it would have felt really hard, really sad,” she explained.

According to the Apple singer, after nearly two decades in the industry, she is seeking new creative challenges rather than repetition.

She pointed out, “I’ve been making music since I was 14. It’s nearly 20 years. I feel very spoiled saying this, but there is not much that can thrill me within music anymore.”

Moreover, Charli XCX admitted to mixed feelings about live performances, revealing struggles with stage anxiety and physical strain from touring, while suggesting she may step back from large arena shows in the future.

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