Troye Sivan's fourth album *She's The Best* and its creative process, collaborations, and influences

Consensus Summary

Troye Sivan’s fourth album, *She’s The Best*, marks a creative and personal milestone, blending collaborations with pop icons and a deeply introspective exploration of safety, identity, and influence. Both ABC and the Guardian agree the album features Madonna’s 2000 hit *Music* as a sample on the track *Party*, with the Queen of Pop personally approving its use. The album also includes contributions from Sir Ian McKellen, who narrated the *Party* music video, and Charli xcx, who provided backing vocals on the title track. Released in 2026, the project reflects Sivan’s evolution from YouTube roots to a more mature, reflective artistic phase, though the outlets differ in how they frame its significance.

The album’s creation stems from Sivan’s desire to honor the women in his life who provide emotional support, a theme ABC emphasizes as central to the project. The Guardian, however, contextualizes Sivan’s career within the broader landscape of 'middle-class pop stars'—artists who thrive on cult followings and critical acclaim rather than mainstream commercial success. Both sources note his collaborations with major figures like Madonna and McKellen, but the Guardian ties these to a larger discussion of queer representation in pop music, while ABC focuses on the personal and collaborative journey behind the album’s tracks.

Key figures in the album’s production and promotion include Madonna, whose 2000 hit *Music* became a pivotal sample, and Sir Ian McKellen, whose 2010 collaboration with Sivan on *Waiting For Godot* resurfaced in the video’s narration. ABC details how McKellen sent Sivan a video in Gandalf costume, confirming his participation, while the Guardian highlights the album’s lyrical and musical influences, including Charli xcx’s backing vocals and the Balearic house aesthetic. Sivan’s brother Tyde, a producer on *Party*, is also noted by ABC as having Madonna’s involvement on his first professional cut, adding a personal touch to the project.

The two articles diverge in their emphasis on the album’s themes and production. ABC frames *She’s The Best* as a heartfelt tribute to women and queer spaces, with Sivan reflecting on feelings of safety and discomfort in different environments. The Guardian, meanwhile, analyzes the album’s musical style, comparing it to late 00s 'wonky pop' and 1990s UK pop, while also discussing Sivan’s unapologetic queer identity. The ABC article also provides specific production details, such as the accidental inclusion of the Madonna sample during version 17 of *Party*, whereas the Guardian focuses on the album’s broader cultural and artistic context.

While both sources agree on the album’s release and key collaborations, they offer distinct perspectives on its impact. The Guardian suggests Sivan’s cult status may limit his mainstream success but allows for artistic freedom, while ABC highlights the emotional and personal connections behind the project. Neither article explicitly states what comes next for Sivan, but the Guardian implies his continued experimentation could redefine his place in pop culture. The ABC article, however, leaves the focus on the album’s immediate release and the stories behind its creation, particularly the full-circle moment of featuring Madonna’s music after growing up listening to her.