Benson Boone’s Childhood Obsession: Justin Bieber and One Direction

Benson Boone just revealed that he was a secret Justin Bieber and One Direction fan as a kid, proving even future stars grew up singing along to pop hits.

On the first night of South by Southwest (SXSW), Benson Boone delivered an electrifying performance, complete with impressive flips that thrilled the crowd. This year has been monumental for the singer—he performed at the Grammys and, on March 11, earned a feature in Rolling Stone’s “Future of Music” issue. Thanks to his growing popularity in the music industry, the musician was invited for an exclusive interview.

During the interview, the pop-rock artist revealed that he grew up as a fan of One Direction and Justin Bieber. The 22-year-old stated, “I always loved Justin Bieber and One Direction. I mean, I was too embarrassed to admit it to my friends. Honestly, I was probably a bigger fan of them than any of my sisters. Especially One Direction. We thought being in a boy band was like the coolest thing ever. And this is before I even knew I could sing.” Boone’s appreciation for these artists highlights the significant influence they had on his musical journey.

Though he has carved out his own musical identity, his admiration for One Direction and Bieber remains evident. He credited them with showing him the impact an artist can have on fans. While his sound has evolved beyond the bubblegum pop of his childhood idols, traces of their influence can be heard in his strong melodies and emotional lyrics.

This revelation adds another layer to his artistic persona. Fans now see a different side of him shaped by his youth. It also evokes nostalgia for listeners who grew up in the same era, listening to the same artists. His openness strengthens the bond with his audience, encouraging them to reflect on their formative years.

His comment proves that musical inspiration comes from unexpected places, shaping artists in ways that transcend genre and time.