In an era where the future of rock music seemed uncertain, a new figure has emerged, capturing the imagination of Gen Z and seasoned rock enthusiasts alike. Sombr, born Shane Michael Boose, has rapidly ascended to stardom, challenging traditional notions of what it means to be a rock star in 2025. His debut album, “I Barely Know Her,” featuring two chart-topping tracks, garnered him a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. This success has propelled him into a whirlwind of award ceremonies, a forthcoming global tour, and a memorable appearance as the musical guest on “Saturday Night Live.”
The Reimagined Rock Star: Sombr's Impact on Music and Style
The sudden widespread recognition of Sombr prompts a fascinating discussion: what constitutes a popular rock star in the contemporary landscape? While certain enduring characteristics of the rock archetype, such as a rebellious spirit and confident demeanor, remain evident in Sombr’s persona, his approach introduces fresh nuances. Stylist Brandon Tan, formerly of GQ and currently the fashion director for Seventeen and Cosmopolitan magazines, describes Sombr’s aesthetic as having a “provocative attitude” mixed with a “rebellious nature,” exuding both “sexy and subtle” confidence.
Hailing from New York, Sombr also embodies a distinct innocence often associated with his generation. His stage presence is characterized by sincere dance moves, contrasting with the overtly sexualized performances of past rock icons. Lyrically, he explores themes of melancholy and introspection, a sensibility that inspired his stage name. A poignant example is found in his song “undressed,” where he expresses vulnerability about exposing himself to a new romantic partner after a breakup. This emotional depth diverges from the pure hedonism often linked with classic rock, instead aligning with a more nuanced, perhaps even awkward, expression of modern rage. Yet, despite these lyrical distinctions, Sombr’s sartorial choices consistently embrace the iconic rock aesthetic.
Working in close collaboration with Brandon Tan, who initially styled Sombr for his “12 to 12” music video, the duo explores vast sartorial possibilities, drawing inspiration from various rock legends across decades. Notably, Sombr recently attended his first CFDA Awards, where he donned a Thom Browne ensemble. His impressive height and extensive wingspan accentuated the designer’s signature tailored silhouettes, creating an image reminiscent of a sophisticated emo guitarist with a reverence for Buddy Holly.
Tan emphasizes the importance of avoiding costume-like interpretations of past eras, such as 1970s disco or glam rock. Instead, their aim is to complement Sombr’s intense stage presence with more flamboyant elements. This vision was vividly brought to life during Sombr’s runway debut for Vogue World, where he graced the stage in Valentino. This Italian luxury brand has swiftly become a cornerstone of the burgeoning artist’s wardrobe, featuring prominently in his appearances, including the VMAs. Tan highlights Valentino’s unwavering support, stating that Sombr truly embodies the brand’s glamour. Although not yet an official ambassador, Sombr’s fashion choices often mirror the avant-garde designs of creative director Alessandro Michele.
His recent “Saturday Night Live” performances further showcased this collaboration. For his rendition of “12 to 12,” Sombr wore a custom poppy-colored Valentino suit, its flared trousers accentuating his energetic dance movements. Beneath the double-breasted blazer, a sheer black button-up shirt with a dazzling fringed collar added a touch of indie sleaze. This eclectic ensemble evoked the image of a character from the early 2000s British teen drama “Skins”—a patchwork of borrowed clothes, worn after days of revelry. Tan revealed that the inspiration leaned more towards glam rock, citing icons like Mick Jagger, David Bowie, and Marc Bolan as key influences, a choice that perfectly complements Sombr’s lithe, hip-swaying charisma.
For his second “SNL” performance, Sombr donned a sleek black suit adorned with intricate, tasteful embroidery—a testament to Michele’s design prowess. He dramatically scaled the stage scenery in pointed boots, clutching the microphone cord wrapped around his neck like a delicate scarf. At the after-party, Tan opted for a more understated yet equally stylish look: a vintage tee paired with a slim-fit leather blazer and an Alexander McQueen skull scarf, an iconic piece recently seen on Timothée Chalamet. However, for his final bow, Sombr showcased his personal style, appearing in a crinkly brown leather jacket and flared blue jeans, a choice that Tan enthusiastically endorsed, remarking on the artist's impeccable self-styling.
Sombr’s journey exemplifies a significant shift in the music industry, particularly for the rock genre. His rise signifies that authenticity, emotional vulnerability, and a distinct fashion sensibility are crucial for connecting with contemporary audiences. Unlike the archetypal rock stars of previous generations, Sombr embraces a more introspective and relatable persona while still maintaining a captivating stage presence. His collaboration with Brandon Tan and his alignment with brands like Valentino highlight the evolving interplay between music, fashion, and personal branding in the digital age. This new wave of rock artistry, championed by figures like Sombr, suggests a vibrant future for the genre, one that is diverse, emotionally resonant, and visually compelling, proving that rock music is not only alive but continually transforming.