Chappell Roan, a 26-year-old singer who has taken the music world by storm, recently opened up about her journey and the challenges she faces as an outspoken artist. Known for her bold personality and captivating performances, Roan has achieved remarkable success, including topping UK charts and being recognized as BBC Radio 1’s “Sound Of 2025.” However, she believes that her career might have been even more successful if she hadn’t spoken her mind.
Chappell Roan: ‘I’d be more successful if I wore a muzzle’
In a recent interview, Roan candidly shared her thoughts on fame and the music industry. She joked that she would be “way bigger” if she “wore a muzzle,” suggesting that keeping quiet about her opinions could have helped her avoid criticism. Despite this, she stands by her decisions and feels that prioritizing her mental health is more important than any amount of fame.
A Rising Star in the Music World
Having grown up in Willard, Missouri, Roan’s ambitions initially lay in acting. However, entering a singing contest at the young age of 13 sparked her passion for music. She got signed by Atlantic Records at just 17, but her journey wasn’t a straight path to stardom. After facing rejection from her former record label, she persevered and created a unique sound influenced by her experiences, including a memorable visit to a drag bar in West Hollywood.
- Her debut album, “Good Luck, Babe,” topped the UK charts in 2023.
- She is nominated for six Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist.
- Roan became known for her performance at the 2024 Coachella Festival.
- She is set to headline at major music festivals, including Primavera Sound and Reading & Leeds.
Facing Criticism and Protecting Her Well-Being
Roan has faced her share of criticism. Some label her an out-of-control diva, especially after she publicly confronted paparazzi and fans who engaged in creepy behavior. In a particularly viral moment at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, she stood up against harassment aimed at her and her family.
While some tabloids have been harsh, Roan feels that speaking out is crucial. She explains that these reactions are not just knee-jerk responses but stem from experiences growing up that shaped how she deals with disrespect. Choosing to focus on her mental and physical health, she decided to cut short her 2024 tour, prioritizing self-care over the pressures of the music industry.
The Power of Personal Choices
Roan credits her late grandfather as a guiding force in her life, often reflecting on his advice when making career decisions. This influence drives her to speak her truth and to consider the impact of her choices on her health and happiness. Despite the accolades—like winning Best New Artist at the MTV VMAs—she sees the music business as a complex environment, filled with pressures that challenge both her art and her well-being.
Challenges of Being a Public Figure
While the world may see a successful artist living the dream, Roan invites us to understand the hidden struggles. She believes fame can feel like an “abusive ex-husband,” as it lures artists in with promises of glory but often brings anxiety and stress. By scaling back on meet-and-greets due to her growing anxiety, Roan is actively taking steps to protect herself in a demanding industry. Her decisions demonstrate a newfound understanding of what it means to navigate fame on her own terms.
Looking Ahead
With glittering nominations and tours on the horizon, Chappell Roan’s journey blends triumph with challenges. She prepares for future performances while remaining committed to her authenticity. As she describes it, success and failure are often beyond her control, but her focus remains clear: Mental health comes first.
| Successes | Challenges |
|---|---|
| Debut album topped UK charts | Faced paparazzi harassment |
| Nominated for six Grammy Awards | Public criticism from tabloids |
| Highlighted in BBC Radio’s ‘Sound Of 2025’ | Scaled back meet-and-greets due to anxiety |