Charli XCX, the British pop sensation, has teamed up with Billie Eilish for a remix of her song “Guess,” further embodying what she has dubbed “Brat summer.” The term “Brat summer” emerged after the release of Charli XCX’s sixth studio album, aptly named “Brat.”
This concept captures an effortless “it” girl vibe, visually represented by the album’s neon green cover. In the accompanying music video for the “Guess” remix, directed by Aidan Zamiri, Charli XCX and Eilish engage in a visually striking narrative, with scenes featuring the duo climbing a mountain of lingerie while Eilish operates a bulldozer.
Billie Eilish expressed her gratitude for being part of the project by sharing the music video on Instagram, a move that significantly amplified the release’s buzz. Charli XCX had previously hinted at the collaboration by posting a cryptic photo featuring herself with a mystery guest, whose identity was quickly deduced by fans as Eilish.
This deduction was aided by Eilish’s distinctive rings, which she had worn in recent interviews. The collaboration between these two influential artists has further solidified the thematic essence of “Brat summer.”In a broader cultural context, Charli XCX’s concept of “brat” extends beyond her music and visuals.
She recently sparked conversation by posting “Kamala IS brat” after Kamala Harris became the Democratic nominee for the upcoming U.S. election, replacing Joe Biden. The Biden-Harris campaign even adopted the visual style of Charli XCX’s album cover, changing their banner to Kamala HQ with the same neon green background and font.
This move highlights the pervasive influence of Charli XCX’s aesthetic and the broader cultural resonance of the “brat” persona she has crafted.
Charli XCX has described “brat” as an attitude embodying a carefree, slightly rebellious spirit. She characterizes a “brat” as someone who might carry a pack of cigarettes, a Bic lighter, and wear a strappy white top without a bra.
This persona is unapologetically authentic, often messy, and prone to partying, with a tendency to say or do dumb things. Despite potential emotional turmoil, a “brat” remains genuine and unabashedly themselves, navigating life with a mix of bluntness and volatility.
The release of Charli XCX’s latest album and her subsequent nomination for the Mercury Prize album of the year underscores her continued relevance and innovation in the music industry.
By embracing and promoting the “brat” ethos, Charli XCX has not only defined a new cultural aesthetic but also solidified her position as a pivotal figure in contemporary pop music.
Her collaboration with Billie Eilish on the “Guess” remix marks another milestone in her career, showcasing her ability to blend her unique style with that of another influential artist.
