In the world of pop music, where image often speaks as loudly as sound, a pop star’s hairstyle can become as iconic as their music. Whether it’s Elvis Presley’s slick pompadour or Tina Turner’s bold, spiky locks, the right hairdo can turn a performer into a cultural icon.
A defining hairstyle often becomes a symbol of an artist’s brand. Consider Ariana Grande’s signature high ponytail, Billie Eilish’s striking two-tone dye jobs, or Dolly Parton’s towering bouffant wigs. Each of these looks has become as recognizable as the artists themselves, creating an unmistakable identity that fans can’t get enough of. Even today, Diana Ross, who continues to style her own voluminous curls after more than six decades in the industry, remains a beauty icon, her influence still felt on runways like Marc Jacobs’ Spring 2024 show. “You could pantomime bouncing invisible hair, and people would immediately recognize Diana Ross,” says Clayton Hawkins, a Los Angeles-based hairstylist known for his work with Olivia Rodrigo. “A flick of the hair and a lick of the lips—everyone knows that’s Cher.”
While a pop star’s talent, charisma, and personality are key to their success, their hairstyle can elevate them to legendary status. Rihanna, for example, has turned her unique style into a full-fledged brand with her Fenty empire, launching Fenty Hair this summer. Beyoncé followed suit with her own haircare line, Cécred, released earlier this year.
The impact of a pop star’s hairstyle often extends beyond the stage and screen. A bold hair choice, like Lil’ Kim’s pink wig or Miley Cyrus’s sky-high volume at the 2024 Grammys, can steal the spotlight, making as much of a statement as their wardrobe. “Hair is the ultimate expression of image,” says Bob Recine, a New York-based hairstylist who has worked with Lady Gaga and Miley Cyrus. “It’s the first thing people notice, and it has the power to define how they perceive you.”
Recine argues that the concept of “pop” is as much about visual art as it is about music, and those who master the interplay between hair and identity can maintain their relevance in the industry. “Pop stars project their imagery through different eras and albums,” Recine explains. “They understand that their visual identity is as important as the music itself. A dedicated pop star invests time in perfecting this aspect of their persona.”
However, the ability to change hairstyles on a whim—thanks to wigs, extensions, and top-tier stylists—doesn’t always guarantee success. Yusef, a New York-based hairstylist celebrated for his innovative looks on Rihanna, has faced both acclaim and intense criticism. He recalls being captivated by Janet Jackson’s shag hairstyle in the music video for “The Pleasure Principle,” which left a lasting impression on him. “I loved the way her hair moved. It was rare to see a Black woman’s hair with that kind of fluidity,” he says. Yusef’s collaboration with Rihanna is rooted in mutual trust and the confidence she exudes with every style. “I always tell artists that if they want to try something new, they have to fully embrace it—that’s what fans are drawn to,” he says. “Rihanna owns every look, inspiring her fans to be bold and confident with their own style.”
For some artists, like Madonna, the ability to reinvent their look has been essential to their longevity. “Madonna is the blueprint for transformation,” Hawkins notes. “She constantly reinvents herself, and her hair plays a crucial role in keeping her audience engaged.” However, not every transformation hits the mark. A poorly received hairstyle can derail an album’s success, as seen with Katy Perry’s short-lived pixie cut during the Witness era, which some fans believe contributed to the album’s underperformance. Similarly, Britney Spears’ transition to dark brown hair during the recording of Blackout was heavily scrutinized, culminating in the infamous head-shaving incident she later discussed in her memoir.
In contrast, artists like Taylor Swift have found success by maintaining a consistent look. Since her debut in 2006, Swift’s hairstyle has evolved, but she has largely stayed within the realm of her signature ash-blonde hues, rarely venturing beyond her comfort zone. “Transformation works differently for every artist,” says Yusef. “Amy Winehouse, for example, was so defined by her aesthetic that a drastic change would have been jarring. For many pop stars, evolution is more important than reinvention.”
Beyoncé, on the other hand, has embraced change throughout her 25-year career, yet her signature honey-blonde locks remain her most iconic look. From her early days with Destiny’s Child to her current platinum blonde phase, this hue has become synonymous with her image. “Not many women of color have claimed blonde hair as their own, especially not golden honey blonde,” Hawkins observes. “Beyoncé’s look is now so ingrained in our culture that we associate it with her as if it’s her natural color.”
Ultimately, a pop star’s hair is more than just a style choice—it’s a powerful tool in their arsenal. It’s the element that can define an era, enhance a performance, and create a lasting legacy. “When you’re on stage as a pop star, your hair becomes part of the choreography,” Hawkins concludes. “Makeup is important, but you can’t whip it around for dramatic effect the way you can with hair.”