Throughout 2024, Chappell Roan emerged as one of the most talked-about pop stars, making waves filled with both triumphs and challenges. Roan, who previously signed her first record deal back in 2015, shot to fame with her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, released at the end of 2023. Yet, it was the release of her single “Good Luck, Babe!” earlier this year, which solidified her status as a burgeoning superstar.
The single “Good Luck, Babe!”, heralded as the “first song of the next chapter,” quickly climbed the Billboard charts, breaking the top 20 and garnering significant streaming numbers on services like Spotify. According to Billboard, Roan's streaming increased by over 30 percent within just one week of the song's release. This surge was part of the momentum leading to Roan's first live festival performance at Coachella, which indisputably marked a monumental moment for her career.
“To be playing Coachella as my first festival is surreal. I can't believe it,” Roan remarked to Vogue. Although exhilarated, the singer faced intense pressures associated with sudden fame. Echoing her complex feelings, Roan candidly told fans during one of her concerts, “I just feel a little off today because I think my career has just kind of gone really fast, and it’s really hard to keep up.”
Indeed, the pressure seemingly took its toll. Despite the highs of performing on grand stages and receiving accolades, Roan was honest about her struggles with maintaining mental health, admitting to attendees at her North Carolina concert: “This is all I’ve ever wanted; it’s just heavy sometimes, so thank you.” The musician has been open about attending therapy sessions twice weekly, attributing them to the drastic changes her life underwent.
Following her coasting on success, Roan faced backlash, especially when it came to balancing fan interactions with her need for personal space. She openly criticized what she termed “entitled” fan behavior on social media, stating, “I don’t care… whatever the f--- you think you’re supposed to be entitled to whenever you see a celebrity. … I’m allowed to say no to creepy behavior.” Her frank approach shed light on the dark side of fame, even drawing sympathy from fans who felt compelled to rally around her plight.
Roan's accolades continued as she earned four nominations at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, where she won Best New Artist, dedicatly her award to drag artists and the queer community. “For all the queer kids in the Midwest watching right now, I see you, I understand you… Don’t ever let anyone tell you you can’t be exactly who you want to be, bitch,” she declared, sending ripples through social media.
This year also saw Roan make strides as she performed at prominent festivals, including Lollapalooza, where she broke attendance records reportedly achieving “the biggest daytime set we've ever seen.” From one high to another, she faced disappointments as well, having to pull out of performances at the All Things Go festival due to overwhelming pressures. She expressed this concern on social media, stating, “I want to be present when I perform and give the best shows possible.” Firm support from festival organizers reassured fans during her brief hiatus.
Despite facing controversies and the rigorous demands placed on her, Roan's year wouldn't be complete without celebrating personal milestones. Her appearance alongside icons such as Lady Gaga during A Very Carpool Karaoke Christmas showcased both her powerful vocals and close ties to family. During the carpool, her parents joined for emotional support, providing insight on their admiration for her resilience and values.
“What she has taught me as a father is respect for other people,” her father, Dwight, remarked, echoing the mutual pride the family shares for Chappell as she navigates the pop star world, grounded by her upbringing.
Chappell Roan is undoubtedly leaving her mark on 2024. With Grammy nominations under her belt and exponential growth as both an artist and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, she stands out not just as a performer but as a voice for the marginalized. Her story is one of talent, tenacity, and transparency, reminding us all about the significance of mental health and individuality amid the chaos of fame.
