Chappell Roan, the 26-year-old pop sensation known for hits like “Hot to Go,” is making waves in the music industry, but she remains grounded despite her recent rise to fame. The singer, whose real name is Kayleigh Amstutz, has seen her career reach new heights this year, with her music climbing the Billboard charts and commanding larger audiences than ever before. However, in a recent conversation with Bowen Yang for Interview Magazine, Roan made it clear that her core values and approach to her art remain unchanged.
In the interview published on Monday, August 19, Roan shared her perspective on the rapid growth of her career and the way industry recognition has shifted. Despite her album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess reaching No. 3 on the Billboard 200 and her single “Good Luck, Babe!” hitting No. 6 on the Hot 100, Roan insists that she hasn’t altered her artistic approach.
“The biggest thing has been getting recognized, and just feeling not myself,” Roan said. “And touring, it’s all-consuming. I’ve never given a f— about the charts or being on the radio, but it’s so crazy how industry people are taking me more seriously than before. I’m like, ‘I’ve been doing this the whole time, bitch.’”
Roan’s recent success follows the release of her critically acclaimed album and a series of chart-topping singles, including “Hot to Go!,” “Pink Pony Club,” “Red Wine Supernova,” “Casual,” “Femininomenon,” and “My Kink Is Karma.” However, she remains skeptical of the significance of chart positions.
“If anything, I’m just like, ‘F— you guys for not seeing what actually matters,’” Roan said. “A chart is so fleeting. Everyone leaves the charts. I’m just like, ‘This is giving valedictorian.’”
Roan reflected on her career trajectory, admitting that she never anticipated the rapid growth she has experienced. “I feel like I peaked a couple of years ago,” she said. “Back then, I was like, ‘I sold out Bowery Ballroom and that’s crazy.’ It’s been amazing to do bigger shows and open for Olivia [Rodrigo], but everything right now is truly icing on the cake.”
Despite the whirlwind of fame, Roan remains committed to staying true to herself. “My career has worked because I’ve done it my way, and I’ve not compromised morals and time,” she explained. “I have not succumbed to the pressure. Like, ‘Bitch! I’m not doing a brand deal if it doesn’t feel right. I don’t care how much you’re paying me.’ That’s why I can sleep at night.”
ADVERTISEMENT
The pop star’s authenticity has garnered support from peers in the industry. Recently, Adele publicly praised Roan during her Munich concert on August 14. The Grammy Award-winning singer revealed that she had recently discovered Roan’s music and was impressed by her talent.
“And it turns out, she’s not just got one song. She’s got, like, seven f—ing brilliant songs,” Adele said. “I think she’s absolutely amazing. I’m very excited for her, but my friend also said she’s a bit scared. So, do what you gotta do, baby girl, but you’re phenomenal.”
Roan’s journey to fame has been marked by a blend of resilience and creativity. Despite the pressures and changes that come with success, she remains focused on her art and personal values. As she continues her “Femininomenon” tour, which includes stops in Germany, France, Manchester, London, and Forest Hills, New York, Roan is determined to maintain her unique voice and approach.
“I’m really glad the persona that I have, the drag version, is still very much me,” she said. “It’s all about doing it my way and staying true to who I am, no matter what the industry throws at me.”
As Roan navigates the complexities of fame and success, her commitment to authenticity and self-expression stands as a testament to her enduring artistry and dedication.
