Role Model on His New Album, Working with Dakota Johnson — and a Possible Name Change

Key Takeaways:

• Tucker Pillsbury, a.k.a. Role Model, discusses his new album.
• The new record spotlights a heartland rock revival with Chuck Timely and the Hourglass.
• He consciously avoids mainstream pop stardom.
• He has worked with Dakota Johnson and acted with Natalie Portman.
• A potential stage name change is on the horizon.

A New Musical Direction

Tucker Pillsbury—better known to fans and critics as Role Model—has unveiled plans for a new album that branches out from the pop sphere. He’s joined forces with Chuck Timely and the Hourglass, aiming to bring back the classic energy of heartland rock. The performer, who first attracted attention under the Role Model moniker, is now hinting that change is in the air.

Embracing Heartland Rock

Reports from the Rolling Stone feature underscore how Pillsbury’s sound draws on the timeless character of heartland rock. This direction sets his latest work apart from many current pop releases. His collaboration with Chuck Timely and the Hourglass makes it clear that he wants to recall the anthemic spirit of a bygone era in music—a choice that showcases his desire to innovate within a nostalgic framework rather than follow modern pop conventions.

Avoiding Pop Stardom

Pillsbury states unequivocally that he is deliberately avoiding the path of typical pop superstardom. While he acknowledges the value of commercial success, he prefers forging his own lane that prioritizes authenticity over spectacle. In his interview, he highlights the importance of artistic integrity, emphasizing that the heartland style allows him to stay true to his sound without conforming to the mass-market pop formula.

From Music to Film

It’s not just about songs and guitars for Tucker Pillsbury. He has also stepped onto film sets, having acted alongside Natalie Portman. Though details remain sparse, this intersection of music and acting hints at his broader creative ambitions. With star collaborators in his orbit, including an appearance by Dakota Johnson in one of his projects, Pillsbury appears to be broadening his horizons well beyond the music studio.

A Possible Name Change

Even with a growing reputation, Pillsbury candidly mentions contemplating a name change. Role Model, after all, was the persona that first captured public attention, but the artist may be ready to evolve. While no official decision has been announced, his openness to rebranding signals that this heartland rock phase may be just one portion of a much larger creative journey.