Get ready for a musical treat that’s as unexpected as it is electrifying! Role Model just made his Saturday Night Live debut, and it was nothing short of a showstopper. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: he brought out none other than Charli XCX to join him for his viral hit, ‘Sally, When the Wine Runs Out.’ If you’ve been following his live performances, you know he loves to shake things up by inviting special guests to play Sally—and this time, the British pop sensation stole the spotlight with her signature flair. The audience went wild as she danced, swirled her hair, and even slid her sunglasses onto Role Model’s face before strutting offstage. It was a moment that perfectly blended their unique styles and left everyone buzzing.
But that’s not all—Role Model also performed ‘Some Protector,’ a mellower track from his latest album, Kansas Anymore. This deluxe edition, released in February, marks a significant evolution for the 28-year-old Maine native (aka Tucker Pillsbury). In a candid interview with Rolling Stone, he shared how this album reflects his personal and artistic growth. ‘I wanted to prove that my songwriting and taste in music had matured,’ he explained. ‘It’s a big shift in how I talk about and write about things, and a lot of that came from finally getting to a place where I could write songs on guitar by myself.’
And this is the part most people miss: Role Model’s journey isn’t just about music—it’s about connection. Whether he’s opening for Gracie Abrams, headlining his No Place Like Tour, or teaming up with María Zardoya of The Marias for Rolling Stone’s Musicians on Musicians event, he’s all about collaboration. Speaking of which, mark your calendars for October 23rd at New York’s Beacon Theatre, where he’ll be part of an epic lineup alongside Jack Antonoff and Hayley Williams. SNL’s James Austin Johnson will host, ensuring the night is as funny as it is musical.
But here’s the controversial question: Is Role Model’s rise to fame a product of his talent, his collaborations, or the viral nature of ‘Sally, When the Wine Runs Out’? Some might argue it’s a mix of all three, while others could say it’s his authenticity that truly sets him apart. What do you think? Let’s debate it in the comments!
As for what’s next, Role Model is taking his show on the road with a stretch of European dates starting next month. If his SNL performance is any indication, fans are in for a treat. So, whether you’re a longtime follower or just discovering his music, one thing’s for sure: Role Model is an artist you won’t want to miss.
