If there’s an artist shining like a supernova in 2024, it’s undoubtedly Chappell Roan.

The 26-year-old pop sensation hails from Willard, Missouri, a small town with just 6,300 residents. She captured the attention of music lovers everywhere with her debut studio album “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.” Her entrance into the mainstream showcases a bold fusion of captivating tunes, a clear and powerful voice, and a fearless celebration of her queerness.

It’s no wonder Roan received six Grammy nominations, including the highly coveted album of the year, along with song and record of the year for “Good Luck, Babe,” as well as recognition for best new artist.

“Music allows me to express anything, even things that I have yet to experience. It gives me a platform to convey my queerness, even when it was just a dream. It helps me to reveal parts of myself that I haven’t come to terms with yet,” Roan shared in a recent interview with Grammy.com.

Her dynamic performances at Coachella in April 2024 are often credited with propelling her from a niche favorite to a recognized name featured on the cover of Rolling Stone. Earlier that year, she opened for Olivia Rodrigo’s sold-out Guts World Tour and spent her summer captivating massive festival audiences at Bonnaroo, Governors Ball, and Lollapalooza in Chicago, drawing over 80,000 fans to her set.

Catch Roan at the Grammys when they air on CBS/Paramount+ on February 2.

How Did Chappell Roan Choose Her Stage Name?

Originally named Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, Roan crafted her stage name as a tribute to her grandfather, Dennis Chappell, who passed away from brain cancer in 2016. Her grandfather’s favorite song was Marty Robbins’ classic “The Strawberry Roan,” and she explained to the Oxford student newspaper Cherwell in 2022 that her name change came from a promise she made.

“Before he left us, I promised I would be Chappell for him. The name Roan is inspired by an old Western song about a pinkish-red horse,” Roan explained. “It’s a name full of meaning. I do wish my real name wasn’t Kayleigh, though.”

How Long Has Chappell Roan Been Pursuing Music?

Roan has been quietly making her mark in the music industry since 2014 with the release of her original song “Die Young” on YouTube. This milestone followed years of playing piano, participating in school talent shows, and attempting to audition for “America’s Got Talent,” though she was not selected.

In 2017, after being discovered by Atlantic Records, she released her first EP titled “School Nights.” However, it was her 2020 track “Pink Pony Club,” inspired by her experiences at the West Hollywood gay bar The Abbey, that truly brought her into the spotlight, even though she parted ways with Atlantic soon after.

Over the next couple of years, Roan juggled various jobs including nannying and working as a production assistant while nurturing her career as an independent artist. In 2023, she signed with Amusement Records, a label under Island Records established by her producer and collaborator Dan Nigro.

That fall marked the release of her studio debut, “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.”

What Are Some Songs by Chappell Roan?

Known for her vibrant persona often enhanced by a pink cowboy hat, white makeup, and dramatic wigs, Roan creates music that resonates deeply.

Her Grammy-nominated anthem “Good Luck, Babe!” blends raw defiance with poignant resignation, while the orchestral arrangement of “Femininomenon” and the joyful vibes of “Hot To Go!” draw on ‘80s camp aesthetics.

Why Did Chappell Roan Take Time Away from the Limelight?

The rapid rise to fame proved challenging for Roan, who openly shared her struggles with her mental health.

After canceling a few festival appearances last year, citing her inability to perform, Roan expressed on social media that she felt overwhelmed and needed time to focus on her well-being, highlighting her diagnosis of bipolar II disorder.

She also shared with Rolling Stone that she is setting boundaries concerning her interactions with fans, refusing to respond to calls for “Kayleigh!” and denying most photo requests.

In a heartfelt TikTok video, Roan elaborated on the increasing discomfort of her fan encounters, stating, “It’s strange how people think they know you just because they see you online. I have every right to decline uncomfortable behavior.”

Chappell Roan’s Journey at the 2025 Grammys

Roan made a significant impact with her first Grammy nominations at the 2025 awards.

With six nominations, she stands among the most recognized artists, and she is one of only two to receive nominations in the major categories of album of the year, record of the year, song of the year, and best new artist, alongside Sabrina Carpenter.

In addition to her major nominations, Roan is also up for best pop solo performance for “Good Luck, Babe!” and best pop vocal album for “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.”

She faces tough competition in the best new artist category from talents like Sabrina Carpenter, RAYE, Shaboozey, Benson Boone, Khruangbin, Doechii, and Teddy Swims.

The 2025 Grammy Awards will take place on February 2 in Los Angeles.