By Jacob Goldstein
Chappell Roan, born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, is one of this generation’s popstars. Specializing in cross-genre style pop, rock, and electronic music, she adds an intimate, new touch to everything she does. Especially shown in her recent debut album; Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess (a true work of art in every sense of the word– if I may), Roan is leaving an unforgettable imprint, not only in music but also as a cultural figure, making waves and challenging social norms.
A New Voice in Pop Music
She first drew attention with her single “Pink Pony Club”- a song with lyrics that offered insights into the acceptance of diverse identities. The title “Pink Pony Club” is a metaphor for a community and a place we can all go to feel safe. With a special, ballad-like melody starting in the song — think All Too Well by Taylor Swift and Can’t Catch Me Now by Olivia Rodrigo, to an upbeat pop shift akin to Clearest Blue by CHVRCHES. The skill of writing songs that hit just the right chords for the listeners — with such lyricism and musical diversity is the skill that skyrocketed her to fame. From just 3 million monthly listeners to a whopping 41,479,925 on Spotify worldwide. She also amassed over 7 million followers across her various social media platforms in just 4 months (go follow @chappellroan), making her a true overnight success.
Roan’s music has effectively advocated for social causes ranging from mental health, self-discovery, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. She invites her listeners to peek into the stories of her hardships and relatable life experiences — whether that be an ex/situationship you still aren’t quite over, the insecure bullies in your life, how she felt, and also how she overcame them. Her songs inspire us all to never be controlled by society when it comes to being and owning our true, authentic selves. The honesty and vulnerability she can channel in her music have reverberated with many, building her up to be one of the most inspiring and relatable figures in music.
Being an LGBTQ+ Advocate
One of the most notable parts that sets her apart from other growing artists is her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. Being an openly queer artist, she has used her platform to be a voice in advocating for and empowering the LGBTQ+ community. Her music, performances, and public statements are based on the fact we’re all people and we’re all equal, becoming one of the trailblazers for many young people fighting to come to terms with their identity and not be ashamed in the face of adversity.
Roan’s commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy extends beyond her music. She is actively involved in events and campaigns for equality. She has come forward in support of various organizations working on issues pertinent to the LGBTQ+ community, such as The Trevor Project, GLO Center, Trans America, etc. Just the mere fact that she voices her support and talks about LGBTQ+ equality issues truly makes her unlike any other artist in the industry. Her initiative and self-expression is a bold statement on its own.
A Fashion Icon: Bold, Fearless, and Unapologetically Herself
Beyond music, however, Chappell Roan’s influence extends over blazing a new path for fashion within popular culture. From showing up at New York City’s most iconic and historic music festival, the Governor’s Ball festival inside a giant apple dressed as the Statue of Liberty, one can see how much effort she truly puts into her styling and how even her fashion pushes the boundaries of traditional gender or individuality, further solidifying her role as a cultural icon.
From simply showing up on stage in a matching- heart-patterned pyjama set when she opened up for fellow trailblazer Olivia Rodrigo, or coming out to her record-breaking crowd at the American music festival Lollapalooza in her MMA wrestler uniform; Chappell is sure to give some memorable and iconic looks.
A Voice for Mental Health Awareness
Just as important to the fans, however, is the fact that Roan has been so open in sharing her mental health struggles. Through her music and at her shows, she describes the day-to-day struggle of anxiety, depression, and so on, which helps destigmatize various mental conditions. In songs like “California”, Roan goes deep into the highs and lows of her past challenges being judged. Roan simply being who she is, didn’t necessarily feel welcome and respected by her fans and listeners alike. With this personal story-sharing element, she fosters a special type of bond with her fans, serving as a reminder that they are not alone in their times of despair.
Undoubtedly, Roan’s legacy will be described as nothing short of both eccentric and authentic. She stands as a roaring bonfire in a landscape of little representation. With her music, fashion ideas, and advocacy, Chappell Roan presents herself in a way that has the potential to leave a lasting mark on our society, with social impacts that will resonate for many years to come.
XOXO Your favourite school newspaper’s favorite school newspaper