A pop star possibly pulsating with vitality (10)

I believe the answer is:

heartthrob

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'a pop star' is the definition.
'heartthrob' can be an answer for 'star' (heartthrob is a kind of star). I'm unsure of the 'a pop' bit.

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for heartthrob that I've seen before include "Object of fascination" , "idol" , "Romantic and good-looking male celebrity" , "Beat" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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