Remember when everyone was calling Benson Boone an “industry plant” and mocking his “moonbeam ice cream” song? Well, prepare to have your mind blown! His recent Adele cover has completely flipped the script, revealing a vocal talent no one saw coming. Did the internet get it wrong all along?
A recent viral performance by singer Benson Boone, featuring a stunning rendition of Adele’s “When We Were Young,” has dramatically shifted public perception, transforming him from a figure of online skepticism to a celebrated vocal talent.
Boone initially garnered significant attention following his 2024 hit “Beautiful Things” and a Grammy nomination, yet a wave of criticism soon followed. Many online commentators labeled him an “industry plant,” a sentiment that intensified particularly after his track “Mystical Magical” gained notoriety, leading to widespread mockery of its perceived novelty lyrics.
The “moonbeam ice cream” lyric from “Mystical Magical” became a focal point for internet derision, fueling accusations that his success was manufactured rather than earned. Viral TikToks, openly questioning his appeal and talent, amassed hundreds of thousands of likes, solidifying a narrative of widespread disgruntlement towards the artist.
The intense backlash eventually prompted Boone to address the criticism, candidly discussing in an interview how what he intended as a lighthearted discussion about his song quickly spiraled into pervasive online hate. He recounted the ironic progression from curiosity about “moonbeam ice cream” to outright condemnation, highlighting the internet’s swift and often brutal nature.
Despite the vocal contingent of detractors, Boone has always maintained a dedicated fanbase. However, a pivotal moment on his ongoing World Tour began to dismantle the negative narrative. As part of his concert setlist, Boone incorporates cover songs, and during a recent performance, his choice of Adele’s iconic ballad “When We Were Young” proved to be a game-changer.
What truly astounded audiences was not only Boone’s flawless vocal delivery but also his audacious decision to perform the demanding song in its original key. His ability to effortlessly hit the notoriously high notes, coupled with the fact that this formidable vocal feat occurred after he had already completed his entire high-energy setlist, including acrobatic flips, left many utterly captivated and forced a reevaluation of his capabilities.
The internet, known for its swift judgments, was equally quick to retract its earlier scorn. Videos of the Adele cover flooded social media, accompanied by a deluge of comments expressing genuine shock and newfound admiration. The consensus rapidly shifted from questioning his authenticity to proclaiming him a formidable vocalist, capable of delivering performances that rival, or even surpass, original versions.
This viral moment served as a powerful testament to Boone’s undeniable talent, silencing previous accusations and solidifying his position as a legitimate and gifted pop artist. The collective online apology, however belated, underscores a significant turning point in his career, affirming his vocal prowess and ultimately earning him the widespread recognition he deserves.