Chappell Roan: The Rise Of A Midwest Princess In Dance-Pop

On a blazing August afternoon, Chappell Roan found herself at her favorite bar in Los Angeles, Bigfoot Lodge in Atwater Village. With its rustic wood paneling and quirky Sasquatch memorabilia, the venue reminded her of the Bass Pro Shop back in her Missouri hometown. “Whenever I see Bass Pro hats here in L.A., I’m like, ‘You do not know about that,’” Roan reflects, revealing her deep connection to her roots. This sense of belonging is even more poignant as she gears up to launch one of the year's most anticipated dance-pop albums, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, set to release on September 22.

Roan, 25, is on the brink of a significant breakthrough in her music career after years of struggle in the competitive L.A. music scene. Having faced the challenges of being dropped by her record label, she experienced a humbling return to her hometown. However, the support of Olivia Rodrigo's producer, Dan Nigro, along with a surge of Gen Z love for her catchy tracks like “Hot to Go!” has finally put her in a position to thrive. “I was so close to giving up,” she admits. “If I wasn’t going to do music, then I would probably just go back home and be an aesthetician and a drag queen.”

Chappell Roan embodies the spirit of a small-town girl with big dreams, showcasing the unique blend of vulnerability and exuberance that defines her artistry. With cascading auburn hair and a voice that can transition from soft and tender to powerfully fierce, she reflects the energy of many aspiring artists trying to carve their path in Los Angeles. As she gears up to take center stage, Roan’s journey is not just about music; it's also about reclaiming her identity and embracing her place within queer culture.

Life and Background of Chappell Roan

Journey Through Music and Identity

Signed to Atlantic Records as a teenager, Roan initially ventured into the world of sober singer-songwriter music. However, her first attempt did not resonate, leading to her eventual departure from the label. During the pandemic, Roan returned to Missouri, grappling with her identity and her desire to pursue music. It was during this time that she re-evaluated her dreams and found inspiration in the stories of her peers, leading to a creative rebirth.

In fall 2020, she made the bold decision to return to Los Angeles, working at a doughnut shop while also serving as a production assistant on a TV series. This experience infused her music with a unique perspective, allowing her to explore themes of identity and belonging. One standout track from her upcoming album, “Pink Pony Club,” captures the essence of her journey, reflecting her experiences and aspirations.

“I can’t ignore the crazy visions of me in L.A.,” Chappell sings, expressing her deep connection to her dreamlike ambitions. The song encapsulates her journey of self-discovery and acceptance, as she navigates the complexities of her identity while embracing her role in the queer community.

Embracing Queer Culture and Artistic Expression

As she delves deeper into her music, Roan finds herself grappling with her place within queer culture. Her singles “Red Wine Supernova” and “Naked in Manhattan” serve as poignant reflections of her desires and experiences. “I’ve never done it,” she candidly sings, hinting at her exploration of identity and attraction. This vulnerability resonates with listeners, particularly those navigating their own journeys of self-acceptance.

Despite her newfound confidence, Roan admits to feeling apprehensive about public displays of affection with her girlfriend. “Even though I’m in L.A., homophobia is in the back of my head,” she shares. This juxtaposition of liberation and anxiety highlights the ongoing struggles faced by many in the LGBTQ+ community.

Nonetheless, Chappell Roan is determined to carve out her space in the music industry. With her upcoming performances, including sold-out shows in New York, she’s poised to make a significant impact. “It’s almost like the gays right now have the undertones of punk,” she states, embodying the spirit of unapologetic artistry and self-expression.

Anticipation for The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess

With the release of her debut album just around the corner, excitement is building for Chappell Roan’s music. Songs like “Hot to Go” have already garnered attention for their catchy hooks and relatable themes. Roan’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with her unique storytelling sets her apart as a rising star in the music scene.

As she prepares to embark on her journey as a headliner, Roan is committed to uplifting her community. By incorporating local drag queens into her tour, she emphasizes the importance of representation and support within the LGBTQ+ community. “For me, that would be an ideal outcome,” she says, highlighting her dedication to creating a space where everyone can thrive.

Chappell Roan’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of self-acceptance. As she takes the stage with her vibrant personality and undeniable talent, there’s no doubt she’s destined for greatness in the world of dance-pop.