Last week, Chappell Roan made an appearance on Amazon Music’s ‘Country Heat Weekly’ podcast, touching on her forthcoming country single ‘The Giver,’ targeted towards the lesbian demographic. The show’s hosts flew to Los Angeles to meet the 27-year-old singer who identifies herself as queer. She’s recognized for songs ‘Pink Pony Club’ and ‘HOT TO GO!.’ Roan delved into the thoughts behind her new country-themed, sapphic song.
Interestingly, Roan emphasized she had composed the song not with an intent to infiltrate the country music scene, but to encapsulate her version of the genre’s essence, which to her is a mix of nostalgia, merriment, fiddles and banjos. She asserts that the genre provides her with a sense of liberation, a sentiment she claims pop music fails to provide.
‘The Giver’, her country single in the pipeline, was first unveiled on ‘SNL’ in November. The performance saw her clad in country-themed attire as she showcased the uplifting, fiddle-charged track. As a sign of the times, it’s being called a queer anthem in country music by many, following a trend in music where genres are no longer limited by conventional norms.
Chappell Roan, originally known as Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, comes from a background in the Midwest, a region known for its strong ties to country music. Her music journey began there, largely exposed to Christian rock music from the records her family played. However, her soundtrack also included a large serving of country music with popular tunes from the likes of George Straight, Dwight Yoakam, Shania Twain, and Garth Brooks.
Roan’s grandfather, Dennis Chappell, had a deep impact on her choice of stage name. His favorite tune, ‘The Strawberry Roan’ by western singer Marty Robbins played a significant role. This was the inspiration behind her adopting the name ‘Chappell’ as a tribute to him and her roots in country music.
Discussing her unique stage name, Roan noted that it doesn’t fall into typical gendered categories, making it inherently interesting. She appreciates its gender-neutral nature, even though its professional tone can sometimes make it sound more like a law firm than a stage name.
Back to her childhood, at the tender age of 13, Roan aspired to be on ‘Saturday Night Live’, stating a lofty ambition for someone so young. Originally, she intended to pursue an acting career, however, her musical talent redirected her path. The burning desire to perform on ‘SNL’ remained consistent, eventually culminating into reality.
While Roan’s first country music venture is stirring a lot of curiosity, she professes she carries no specific agenda for the country music industry. She simply acknowledges the genre’s pervasive influence around her, playing in the background in grocery stores and on bus rides.
Her decision to dabble in the genre was not a strategic move but rather, as she puts it, what her ‘heart wanted to do’. She felt compelled to cater to the demographic she felt was present but often overlooked at country concerts – a demographic consisting of trans girls and drag queens.
Affirming her commitment to inclusivity within the country music industry, Roan insists that listeners of all identities attend their concerts, even though some performers may not fully acknowledge them. She suggests that the prejudiced notion that country music is for a select group of people is archaic and misplaced. By her assertion, country music is meant to be for everyone, unfettered by personal beliefs, thereby underscoring its universal appeal.
Looking ahead, Roan expressed her desire to collaborate with country legend Shania Twain, further illustrating her appreciation for legacy within country music. Nevertheless, she made it clear that she will not pander to conjectures about her music taking an exclusive country direction.
Despite the growing conversations around her country single, Roan dispelled rumors that her forthcoming album will be dominated by country music. Currently, she seems to be exploring diverse musical styles and not restricting herself to any particular genre.
Characteristically bold and unapologetic, Roan embodies the quintessential spirit of a modern artist who values artistry over conformity. Shaping her unique brand, Roan continues to push boundaries and redefine the parameters of normality.
While her first country venture coinciding with her sexual identity might be seen as revolutionary by some, it could also be viewed as a savvy business strategy given the burgeoning LGBTQ movement and the community’s increasing purchasing power.
The lines between traditional genres are increasingly blurred, and Roan seems determined to take advantage of this. She encapsulates a portrayal of modern music, where the sounds echo the unbounded, the liberated, and the eclectic.
In summary, Roan’s venture into country music isn’t just about riding on the current trends, it’s about paying homage to her roots, embracing her unique identity, and delivering a message of inclusivity. While some traditional listeners might not easily digest the bold step, the more welcoming music lover might find Roan’s courage inspiring and her music invigorating.