Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 9, 2025 · Entertainment

Unmasking the Star: How a 16-Year-Old Charli XCX Became a Megastar!

Huge popstar looks unrecognisable in unseen video performing at music festival 16 years ago - but who is it?

CHARLI XCX: FROM RAGGY PINK WIG TO STARDOM - A JOURNEY OF SELF-DISCOVERY AND SPECTACULAR SUCCESS

Get ready for a dose of nostalgia as we delve into the fascinating story of Charli XCX, the pop icon who has captured the hearts of millions with her unique style and chart-topping hits. From her early days performing in a raggy pink wig to her current status as a multi-award-winning artist, Charli's journey is a true rags-to-riches tale that will leave you in awe.

As we take a trip down memory lane, we find ourselves transported back to 2009 when Charli was just 16 years old and performing at the Stortford Music Festival in Bishop's Stortford. The newlywed pop sensation, who tied the knot with The 1975 drummer just days ago, was seen prancing around the stage in a bizarre getup that would make even the most seasoned fashionista raise an eyebrow. Clad in striped stockings and a black leotard, Charli's outfit was the perfect blend of quirky and edgy - a style that would become her signature look.

It's Charli XCX! The star proved to have humble beginnings prior to her award winning later fame (pictured earlier thsi week in Budapest)

But what's truly remarkable about this footage is not just Charli's outfits, but also her infectious energy and charisma on stage. At just 16, she already had an air of confidence and swagger that belied her young age. As James Burton, the man who recorded the footage, puts it: "She bounded on in this bizarre, eye-catching outfit... She had a neon green scarf and dyed pink hair with a giant plastic cake in it." It's no wonder that Charli has become one of the most sought-after performers of our time.

As we fast-forward to the present day, it's clear that Charli's hard work and dedication have paid off in spades. With a string of hit singles and albums under her belt, including last year's critically-acclaimed Brat, which earned her eight Grammy Award nominations (including Album of the Year), she has solidified her position as one of the most talented and innovative artists of our generation.

But what makes Charli's story even more remarkable is her willingness to take risks and push boundaries. From her early days performing at small festivals like Stortford Music Festival to her current status as a global superstar, Charli has always stayed true to herself and her art. As James Burton observes: "She wasn't big-headed at all... I hope she's had fun chasing that dream and really wish her all the best."

Charli is pictured in 2013 - four years after her kooky perfromance

So what inspired Charli to become the artist we know and love today? According to her team, it all started on Myspace in 2008 when she began posting songs and building a following. From there, she went on to enter the London rave scene and sign with Asylum Records in 2010. Her big break came in 2012 with the release of I Love It, a collaboration with Swedish duo Icona Pop that reached number one in the UK and became a global hit.

Of course, no story about Charli XCX would be complete without mentioning her fashion sense - or lack thereof! As anyone who's seen her performances will attest, Charli is not afraid to take risks when it comes to her style. From her iconic pink wig to her penchant for bold, eye-catching outfits, she has become a true icon of modern pop culture.

And speaking of icons, let's talk about Charli's recent nuptials! The newlywed pop sensation tied the knot with The 1975 drummer in a stunning ceremony at Hackney Town Hall on July 19. But that's not all - sources close to the couple reveal that they are planning a second wedding in Sicily this summer.

Shortly before James shared the footage, Charli tied the knot

As we look back on Charli XCX's remarkable journey, it's clear that she has come a long way since her humble beginnings as a young performer at Stortford Music Festival. From raggy pink wigs to stratospheric success, Charli has proven herself to be a true trailblazer in the music industry. And with her infectious energy and unparalleled style, we can't wait to see what she does next!

TheScholarlyNote.com

Charli is pictured at the BRITs in 2020

The stunner has been on the rise for some time (pictured in 2019)