WHAT MAKES CHAPPELL SO POPULAR AND NECESSARY IN THIS DAY AND TIME?
Chappell Roan is a relatively new figure on the music scene. Despite only having released one album, she continues to rise up in "pop star" status. In the midst of her dazzling costumes and drag makeup, fans also praise Roan for being genuine with her fans. She is honest about the music industry pressures she faces, the mental health problems she has struggles with, and the journey she has gone on in regards to her sexuality and her discovering her identification with the LGBTQ+ community.
I chose Chappell Roan as the subject for this study because I feel that she is a public figure that is essential in this day and age. She is a figure that fans can relate to, specifically for women and the LGBTQ+ community. However, for someone who is so praised for being open online, how much do Roan's fans really know about her? Is Roan's praise a mere reflection of 'fandom' attitude? In his book Fandom Identities and Communities in a Mediated World, author Jonathan Gray defines 'fandom' as "the regular, emotionally involved consumption of a given popular narrative or text" (Gray 22). In other words, 'fandoms' are extremely enthusiastic groups of fans who become emotionally involved in their relationships with the subject of their fixation. Their relationships with the subject at hand can often be labelled as a parasocial relationship, which is defined as "one-sided relationships that media consumers may form with celebrities, television characters, or media personalities" (Horton & Wohl 1956).
The focus of this study is the extent to which Roan herself actually manages to create a sense of community with her fans. Does Roan's personality and songwriting actually develop this idea of identity, or is it simply a reflection of a parasocial relationship that Roan's fans have developed for her?
Who is Chappell Roan?
Chappell Roan, birthname Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, was born and raised in Willard, Missouri. She is currently 26 years old. Amstutz began writing and producing music when she was very young, and would upload cover songs to YouTube.
Amstutz was signed to Atlantic Records at age 17. Her first EP School Nights was released in 2017. Shortly after her EP was released, in 2020, Amstutz was dropped from her record label. She decided to continue producing music as an independent artist.
In 2023, Amstutz went on her first headliner tour. She obtained a new record deal with Island Records, and released her debut album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.
Who is Chappell on the Digital and Tangible Landscape?
The way that Roan presents herself online and onstage are drastically different, and show two different sides to the singer. Online, Roan is more vulnerable and open about who she truly is. Onstage, Roan presents herself in drag-inspired makeup, complete with extravagant costumes, that represent Roan's message of individuality and diversity.
Digital Persona
Roan is very open online with fans about her humor, mental health, and bipolar disorder. Fans find Roan relatable, and have been able to develop a parasocial relationship with her through Roan's TikToks, Instagrams, interviews, etc.
Chappell Roan has been open about how moving away from the South has allowed her to step into her true self more, which is apparent through her social media presence. In her online presence, Roan appears confident, candid, and is open about her values and her personal beliefs.
"I feel a little off today, because I think my career is going really fast, and it's hard to keep up. I'm just being honest that I'm having a hard time today. So sorry that...I'm not trying to give you, like, a lesser show." - Chappell Roan
Onstage Persona
Onstage, Roan presents herself in extravagant costumes and daring makeup, often complete with lavish set pieces. She pulls lots of inspiration from drag queens, old horror films, and iconic pop princesses from the decades before her. Her costumes often consist of vintage pieces, which are also recicprocated in her band's costumes as well. Roan is notorious for her sensational performance looks, all of which are in collaboration with her stylist Genesis Webb.
“I’d worked with a couple people prior who were way bigger than her and who didn’t really have a lot of opinions. But she had this really specific thing that she wanted to do.” - Genesis Webb, Roan's stylist
Relatability
Chappell's songs are extremely relatable for fans, particularly fans that identify as a woman and/or as a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Her lyrics are thought out and powerful. Roan is able to put fans' feelings into words.
To gain a better understanding of Roan's lyrics and songwriting patterns, I will break down each song off of her debut album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess. What makes Roan's songs so relatable for fans, and how do her songs make fans feel as if they have a parasocial relationship with Roan herself? I want to explore her album in depth to fully understand the intricacy of Roan's musical process and storytelling abilities, and whether or not her music has influenced theparasocial relationships that fans feel towards Roan.
Femininomenon
'Femininomenon' is Roan's opening song on 'The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.' The song calls for a "feminininomenon," or a feminine phenomenon. The song is a celebration of feminine energy.
"And I don't understand, why can't any man..."
The song talks about how men fail to meet female standards. Instead of settling for the bare minimum that men continue to achieve, Roan urges women to appreciate the spirit of the female gender. 'Femininomenon' advocated for women to focus less on finding validation through male approval, and more on finding validation within oneself.
"What we really need is a femininomenon!"
'Femininomenon' was also used as a political symbol in this year's election. Kamala Harris frequently used the song in campaign videos published on platforms like TikTok. The usage of the song can be seen as a call for more females in today's political climate. Harris's campaign was particularly popular among younger generations. Her campaign frequently utilized modern social media platforms, and appealed to the younger demographics through TikTok trends, including using many of Roan's songs in TikTok videos on the official 'KamalaHQ' TikTok account.
After Midnight
'After Midnight' is deemed as one of Chappell’s most underrated songs. The song is about the atmosphere of the club scene, particularly for a bisexual female. Roan writes about how everything good happens after midnight, including kissing people's boyfriends and girlfriends
"Cause everything good happens after midnight!"
The song is particularly meaninful for fans of Roan that identify as bisexual. 'After Midnight' has been hailed as a modern "bi anthem."
"bi female here 🩷💜💙 this is one of my favorite songs (they’re all amazing) and thought it was underrated so i wanted to give it a shoutout!"
Coffee
'Coffee' is one of the few ballads on Roan's debut album. The song depicts Roan attempting to meet up with an old romantic partner. 'Coffee' highlights the struggles that arise when picking a place to meet with old flames, as every location comes with history and old emotions that might lead to something romantic starting once again.
"I'll meet you for coffee, only for coffee. Nowhere else is safe, every place leads back to your place."
Fans have interpreted this song as an urge to "do it for the plot,” or in other words, do something simply because you can. While it might not be the best idea, "doing it for the plot" means focusing less on the present moment, and more on your life in entirety.
Casual
'Casual' discusses the struggles of being in a casual relationship, particularly when one person in the relationship wants more than just a temporary fling. Lyrics describe how casual relationships can often lead to mixed signals and confusion.
Two weeks, and your mom invites me to her house on Long Beach. Is it casual now?
The song has resonated with fans who have experienced the same "half-baked romance" that Roan writes about. It has become a trend on TikTok to make videos with 'Casual' as the audio, while displaying messages or photos that highlight fans and their own "casual" relationships.
Furthermore, fans have also taken the chorus of the song, which is particularly explicit in nature, and made another TikTok trend, but with food. This trend is less serious, and flips the intense nature of the song on its head.
Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl
'Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl' is another song on the album that celebrates femininity and self-expression. The song also highlights bisexuality and the LGBTQ+ community. Similar to 'Femininomenon,' The song once again describes Roan's struggle to find a man that can meet her standards. Roan writes about how she is through with men, and needs a girl that can match her superior feminine energy.
"I'm through with all these hyper mega bummer boys like you. Oh yeah, I need a super graphic ultra modern girl like me!"
'Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl' is yet another one of Roan's songs that has become trending on TikTok. Fans use it as audio for outfit reveals, "get ready with me" videos, and other kinds of videos that highlight women.
Another more humorous TikTok trend involves users playing 'Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl' on one device, and then playing a scene from film or television on another device.
HOT TO GO!
One of Chappell Roan's first major hits comes in the form of 'HOT TO GO!' The song highlights desire and liberation in the form of going after what you want. In the song, Roan writes about a specific individual who she longs for at the bar or club. Her lyrics are open about how she wants to leave and go home with the person, whenever they are ready.
H-O-T-T-O-G-O, You can take me hot to go!
The infamous 'HOT TO GO!' dance that Roan performed in the song's music video has become a national sensation. Hailed as the "modern day YMCA," Chappell Roan has made herself a notable public figure just off of the 'HOT TO GO!' dance alone.
My Kink is Karma
'My Kink is Karma' is about the joy one feels after seeing the downfall of an ex-partner. Fans who are going through breakups have noted their appreciation for the song, and how they can relate to the excitement one gets when seeing their past partners fail.
People say I'm jealous, but my kink is watching you crashing your car, you breaking your heart, you thinking I care
‘Picture You’
'Picture You' is another one of the ballads on The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess. The song is depicts that fantasy scenarios that often arise when one has a crush or infatuation with someone.
Do you feel the same? I'm too scared to say half of the things I do when I picture you
While the song is not considered to be one of the hits off The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, fans have definitely shown their love for the song, and have noted that is is once again a song that puts their personal feelings into words.
‘Kaleidoscope’
'Kaleidoscope' describes a friends-to-lovers relationship, in which one person involved is unsure how they want to proceed.
I guess we could pretend we didn't cross a line. But ever since that day, everything has changed.
The song also discuss love as a concept, and how the unpredictabiliity that comes with it can be beautiful. Love is ever-changing, and takes shape in many different ways.
And even upside down, it's beautiful somehow. It's never just a shape alone. Love is a kaleidoscope.
‘Pink Pony Club’
'Pink Pony Club' was originally released in 2020, but was re-released as a part of The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess in 2023. It soared on the charts in 2024, and continues to stand as one of Roan's most popular songs to date. The song is a sensation for the LGBTQ+ community. It is a song that emphasizes being one's true self, and finding a community where one can find love and acceptance.
I'm having wicked dreams of leaving Tennessee. Hear Santa Monica, I swear it's calling me
The song depicts Roan's desire to leave her hometown and the midwest, and move to Los Angeles. Roan describes the nightlife scene of LA, and the freedom and self-expression that one feels in this atmosphere.
You're a pink pony girl and you dance at the club. Oh mama, I'm just having fun on the stage in my heels, it's where I belong
‘Naked in Manhattan’
'Naked in Manhattan' is about one's first queer crush. It describes the thoughts that arise during adolescent attraction, and how a first crush can be both exciting and scary, especially with someone of the same gender.
Oh, I've never done it, let's make it cinematic like that one sex scene that's in Mulholland Drive, I wanna know, baby, what is it like?
The song is a story of young love and a newfound yearning that practically any listener can relate to, however, it particularly resonantes with the LGBTQ+ community. Roan writes about the risk that queer adolescents feel when it comes to first crushes, and the guilt that might arise if their feelings are acted upon.
Touch me, baby, put your lips on mine. Could go to hell, but we'll probably be fine...
‘California’
'California' is one of Roan's most vulnerable tracks, cover art... The song is about Roan's feelings of being homesick in California, particularly when her music career was failing.
Come get me out of California, no leaves are brown. I miss the seasons in Missouri, my dying town
Roan writes about the fear she had of disappointing her family, and the regret she felt when she moved away, and her career did not immediately arise.
Thought I'd be cool in California, I'd make you proud. To think I almost had it going, but I let you down
‘Guilty Pleasure’
'Guilty Pleasure' is about the struggle of loving someone that is toxic, or not healthy for oneself. In the song, Roan compares her lover to a cigarette, in that her significant other is terrible for her health, but addictive and hard to quit.
I want this like a cigarette. Can we drag it out and never quit?
Roan commented on the song's meaning herself, and said that the song is about a longing for best friend to become a romantic partner.
“Guilty Pleasure” is about me feeling, “Oh my God, I really like this person so much.” And then it’s like, “But they’re my best friend and this is weird and it’s my guilty pleasure." - Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan's debut album exemplifies the power that her lyrics and songwriting abilities have on listeners. Roan has only released one album, yet has amassed a huge following of fans and supporters. Her songwriting and digital persona contribute to the newfound 'fandom' that has arisen in support of Roan's career. Roans' songs are not only catchy, but relatable for fans, specifically in regards to female fans or fans that identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Online, her digital persona is that of a "normal" person, full of humor, stripped-down photos, and vulnerable moments and stories. Onstage, Roan celebrates diversity and individuality, with unique costumes representative of drag culture.
Roan has made herself easy to relate to. While parasocial relationships can sometimes be solely attributed to fandom behavior, in Roan's case, she has contributed to the way her fans feel about her and her music.
Chappell Roan is paving the way for a new kind of celebrity, one that is vulnerable with their audiences and makes every listener feel seen and heard. She is a necessary figure in the modern age who emphasizes the importance of being one's true and honest self. As society moves towards embracing indi viduality, the celebrities we follow should do the same. Roan is living proof that public figures can be simultaneously open, outrageous, and influential.
References
Caruso, Catherine. “Chappell Roan: Biography, Musician, ‘Good Luck, Babe!’ Singer.” Biography, www.biography.com/musicians/a62335057/chappell-roan. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
Chappell Roan, www.songtell.com/chappell-roan. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
Chappell Roan – California Lyrics | Genius Lyrics, genius.com/Chappell-roan-california-lyrics. Accessed 28 Dec. 2024.
“Chappell Roan - My Kink Is Karma. in 2024: Music Artists, Chappell, Kink.” Pinterest, 10 Aug. 2024, www.pinterest.com/pin/1059120037360967022/.
Gray, Jonathan, et al. Fandom: Identities and Communities in a Mediated World. New York University Press, 2017.
Grinspan, Izzy. “How Chappell Roan’s Stylist Genesis Webb Creates Her Tour Outfits.” Harpers Bazaar, www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/art-books-music/a61483803/genesis-webb-chappell-roan-style-interview-2024/. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
Horton, Donald, and Richard Wohl. “Mass communication and para-social interaction.” Psychiatry, vol. 19, no. 3, Aug. 1956, pp. 215–229, https://doi.org/10.1080/00332747.1956.11023049.
Instagram, www.instagram.com/chappellroan/?hl=en. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
Kinnaird, Madeline. “Chappell Roan, ‘Naked in Manhattan.’” NPR, NPR, 15 Mar. 2022, www.npr.org/sections/now-playing/2022/03/15/1086512630/chappell-roan-naked-in-manhattan.
Kenna, Abby. “Chappell Roan Presents a Stirring "Kaleidoscope" of Budding Romance in New Single.” Ones to Watch, 3 Apr. 2023, www.onestowatch.com/en/blog/chappell-roan-kaleidoscope.
Ladies, Photo. “Chappell Roan @ Revolution Live - Fort Lauderdale.” The Photo Ladies, The Photo Ladies, 7 Nov. 2023, www.thephotoladies.com/live/2023/10/26-chappell-roan.
Lindert, Hattie. “Chappell Roan Shares Video for New Song ‘Hot to Go!’” Pitchfork, Pitchfork, 11 Aug. 2023, pitchfork.com/news/chappell-roan-shares-video-for-new-song-hot-to-go-watch/.
Maskell, Emily. “The ‘secret’ LGBTQ+ Meaning behind Chappell Roan’s Pink Pony Club.” PinkNews, 23 Sept. 2024, www.thepinknews.com/2024/08/28/chappell-roan-pink-pony-club-lgbtq-meaning/.
Mier, Tomás. “Chappell Roan’s Campy, Glittery Music Is the Future of Pop.” Rolling Stone, Rolling Stone, 26 June 2024, www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/chappell-roan-pop-lgbtq-olivia-rodrigo-1234981099/.
“R/Chappellroan on Reddit: After Midnight Is My Bi Anthem.” Reddit, www.reddit.com/r/chappellroan/comments/1doomm1/after_midnight_is_my_bi_anthem/. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
TikTok, www.tiktok.com/@lexamayyy27/video/7400563676454882603?_r=1&_t=8paGckoGyS7. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
TikTok, www.tiktok.com/@flighthouseradio/video/7398737236746980650?_r=1&_t=8paHfhSlc7j. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
TikTok, www.tiktok.com/@lukemattt/video/7380131004004027691?_r=1&_t=8pYkTgxYwda. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
TikTok, www.tiktok.com/@sushifridays/video/7407631527808437547?_r=1&_t=8paHV2nx9eI. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
TikTok, www.tiktok.com/@mariiikattt/video/7408678744019307819?_r=1&_t=8paHUKzSuv1. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
TikTok, www.tiktok.com/@youarehomekenna/video/7376395214098992430?_r=1&_t=8paHayNLztG. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
TikTok, www.tiktok.com/@bobjoeweekly2/photo/7383421910341700894?_d=secCgYIASAHKAESPgo8brGVQU4Mv9ZiXe9%2F7BuEZM5kohlY07lD3HHuc0jEXg5otysND%2BAOGhUEnFO5ipRJrRD1X3e5FCqgdddaGgA%3D&_r=1&checksum=618b9765f2eac9ce9eed6484d065b9890584db64448064ee9e168b96a829b8a3&preview_pb=0&sec_user_id=MS4wLjABAAAAd8w_Mo7ZT0jGxFamyfQ3MVKT_KUFTaTuLDfI-qaalwSmTaKlq6-GmwYPJX5xADAy&share_app_id=1233&share_item_id=7383421910341700894&share_link_id=05655850-4CC1-4106-B204-2C0247C6EC44&sharer_language=en&social_share_type=14&source=h5_m×tamp=1720544479&tt_from=copy&u_code=d5lf9gcl09l15b&ug_btm=b5171%2Cb2878&ug_photo_idx=0&user_id=6682693737237726213&utm_campaign=client_share&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=copy. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
TikTok, www.tiktok.com/@jelks/video/7417289945729043754?_r=1&_t=8q0SFTA2Fg6. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
“‘This Is the A-Team’: Harris Campaign Brings on Big New Hires as It Sprints to Election Day.” NBCNews.Com, NBCUniversal News Group, 3 Aug. 2024, www.nbcnews.com/politics/2024-election/harris-campaign-big-new-hires-sprint-election-day-rcna164383.
“Wiki - Guilty Pleasure - Chappell Roan.” Last.Fm, www.last.fm/music/Chappell+Roan/_/Guilty+Pleasure/+wiki. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=xaPNR-_Cfn0. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSbZ4ERnPbk. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcXlN7meclE. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXZuv1T8bfg. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=GR3Liudev18. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=imHkz5nD6gs. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_HVg6zx4ro. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePsqyPMIg6I. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWLai0XoZmg. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfSjnsYiY_A. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=5x5tSAOQc1Q. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jx5013lAOg. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.
YouTube, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouyqexyf5eU. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.