Chappell Roan has become an unstoppable force.
In the past year, the 26-year-old has emerged as the most talked-about star in the pop music scene. She is a dynamic, fiery-haired sensation, whose songs are both vivid and emotionally raw.
Her success is even sweeter because her former record label initially rejected many of the songs that later exploded onto the charts.
"They were like, 'This is not gonna work. We don't get it'," Roan shared with Radio 1's Jack Saunders.
Breaking into the top echelon of pop is not just a validation but also a revolution. At 26, she stands out as the first openly queer female pop star to achieve mainstream success without using her sexuality as part of a post-fame narrative.
On a personal level, she now enjoys financial stability to buy her own house and welcome a rescue cat named Cherub Lou.
Describing her feline friend, the singer affectionately shares, "She's super tiny, her breath smells so bad, and she doesn't have a meow."
Reflecting on the pressures of fame, Roan candidly recalls a moment of questioning societal norms, realizing that what seemed normal was actually quite overwhelming for her.
Despite facing backlash and criticism for her outburst, Roan remains steadfast in her actions.
"I've been responding that way to disrespect my whole life — but now there are cameras on me, and I also happen to be a pop star, and those things don't match. It's like oil and water."
Roan explains the challenges of being a musician, where assertiveness is often misunderstood as complaining.
"I think, actually, I'd be more successful if I was OK wearing a muzzle," she remarks.
Roan emphasizes the importance of standing firm, even at the cost of conforming to industry norms.
"If I were to override more of my basic instincts... I would be bigger. And I would still be on tour right now."
Choosing her well-being over extending a tour in 2024, Roan remains unyielding, drawing strength from her late grandfather's wisdom.
"When someone says, 'Do this concert because you'll never get offered that much money ever again,' it's like, who cares?... If I don't feel like doing this right now, there are always options."
Born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz in Willard, Missouri, Roan defied early expectations of pursuing a career in sports and acting. Her journey into music began at 13, winning a singing contest and eventually getting signed by Atlantic Records at 17.
After facing setbacks and self-discovery, Roan found her distinctive sound, inspired by a transformative experience at a drag bar.
Releasing her debut album in September 2023, Roan's onstage persona and powerhouse vocals elevated her songs, resonating deeply with audiences.
Embracing her role in the pop scene, Roan acknowledges the addictive allure of fame and reflects on the expectations placed on women in the industry.
Ultimately, she is determined to stay true to herself amidst the pressures of success, emphasizing the importance of making genuine choices rather than succumbing to external forces.