Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

In delving into the vibrant and dynamic life of Chappell Roan, I find myself awestruck by her audacity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her beliefs. She is a woman who has bravely embraced her identity, defied expectations, and stood up for marginalized communities with fierce determination.


Get to know the Midwest Princess.

If you happen to have missed out on the past year’s events, Chappell Roan has captivated the globe with her unique blend of pop music that embraces queer identity, and her vibrant, eye-catching stage presence.

Often referred to as the preferred artist of other popular musicians, the singer behind “Good Luck, Babe!” has earned six nominations at the 2025 Grammys – happening on February 2, 2025. Given her nomination alongside Sabrina Carpenter, Benson Boone, Shaboozey, Doechii, Teddy Swims, Raye, and Khruangbin, Chappell is poised to become another artist you might love as the Best New Artist.

Moreover, the recognition Chappell received is hardly unexpected given her rapid ascension in 2024. Notably, she’s nominated across various categories such as Best Pop Vocal Album, Best Pop Solo Performance, Song of the Year, Record of the Year, and the prestigious Album of the Year. She’s joined by established artists like Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and Billie Eilish in these nominations (see all 2025 Grammy nominees here).

Speaking of how Chappell came to be known as the latest music sensation or pop’s newest obsession, it all started with the arrival of her first album titled “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” in September 2023. This album introduced popular tracks like “Hot to Go,” “Pink Pony Club,” and “Red Wine Supernova” to the world.

It was her 2024 single “Good Luck, Babe!” that arguably brought Chappell (formerly known as Kayleigh Rose Amstutz) into the mainstream. This popular track reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and was one of the most played songs during the summer. As more and more fans shared lyrics such as “You’re standing face to face with ‘I told you so’,” Chappel transitioned from performing for audiences of hundreds to crowds of tens of thousands.

Although many find her irresistible, a significant reason for her widespread appeal lies in her strong bond with her LGBTQ+ fanbase. The “Casual” singer has openly discussed how this community provided her a feeling of acceptance following her estrangement from her traditional religious background.

In a heartfelt letter published in Billboard in June 2023, Chappell penned, “A simple love letter feels insufficient to express my feelings.” He further explained that finding the right words to encapsulate his profound love was challenging. His admiration transcended his vocabulary. All he could offer was his work, his songs, his tears, and an eternal love for individuality and queerness.

Apart from championing the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, this 26-year-old individual has additionally utilized her rapidly growing influence to promote fairer treatment within the entertainment sector – even among their dedicated fan bases.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

She stated on TikTok in August that she’s indifferent to the fact that abuse, harassment, stalking, and other such behaviors are often associated with fame. However, just because it’s common in her chosen profession doesn’t make it acceptable or standard. It’s not something she desires or enjoys.

Regarding her preferences, we discovered several aspects, as she often dedicates herself as a volunteer to enlighten the public about our contemporary, tech-savvy girl who’s a whiz with graphics.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

It appears as though Chappell Roan emerged unexpectedly, but in reality, she’s been creating music since high school. This Missouri native has been sharing covers and original tunes on YouTube for quite some time. Atlantic Records eventually took notice and signed her during her senior year, an achievement that felt somewhat anticlimactic amidst the hallways of Willard High School.

 

In a chat with Amazon Music last November, she shared that they actually made the announcement: “Congratulations Kayleigh Amstutz, you’ve signed with Atlantic Records, and here’s some good news about lunch… it’s pizza.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

Your favorite artist’s favorite artist turned to her family when coming up with her alter ego.

 

The individual who is now recognized as a singer was born under the name Kayleigh Rose Amstutz on February 19, 1998, in Willard, Missouri. However, she never felt deeply tied to this birth name and has shared that she drew inspiration for her identity from her grandfather’s beloved music.

 

In August 2022, she shared with Cherwell that her grandfather’s name was Dennis K. Chappell. To honor him, she decided to adopt the surname Chappell. Prior to his passing in 2016 from brain cancer, she had promised him that she would be known as Chappell in his memory. The name Roan originated from his favorite song, “The Strawberry Roan,” an old Western tune about a reddish-pink horse. It’s a name that holds deep sentimental value for her.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

Growing up, Chappell attended church multiple times a week, a ritual that made her feel trapped.

 

In an interview with Variety in September 2023, she shared, “I yearned to experience being a decent individual, yet there was another aspect of me craving freedom so intensely. I often sneaked out, yet I still attended church three times weekly. It was this conflicting struggle between attempting to be a virtuous girl and the impulse to set things ablaze.

 

Currently, regarding her religious connection, “Kaleidoscope” singer expresses that she has moved away from organized religion, yet she remains appreciative for the viewpoint it provided her.

 

She shared with Vanity Fair in September 2023 that she no longer aligns with the Christian Church at this point, but she’s grateful for her time within the community as she can empathize with their viewpoint. She expressed, ‘I get it. I know their standpoint. When it comes to complex issues that leave many puzzled and asking ‘what on earth?’, I have a different interpretation.’

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

This midwestern princess was almost a Mid-WED-stern princess.

 

In her TikTok video posted in July 2023, she shared that she’s been close to being married on two separate occasions, and she chose to keep the details to herself.

 

Despite not disclosing much about her earlier relationships, the “Hot to Go” singer has never been hesitant about throwing subtle jabs at her past romances. Before performing her hit song “My Kink is Karma” at the 2024 Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, she delivered a fiery message directed at one of her ex-partners.

 

In a heartfelt declaration, I express this tune as a tribute to an old love, “I compose this melody for you.” The words resonate with the poignant sentiment, “Now you embody all that I once abhorred, while I’ve transformed into everything I longed for.

 

And at a later performance she spoke directly to her ex’s new fiancé.

 

She mentioned that the tune was dedicated to her former partner, who boasted about dating her in the local bar of her hometown. Effectively, this is a hint to their current fiancee, suggesting they end their relationship.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

Initially, Chappell’s first album was intended to be named “Femininomenon“, inspired by her 2022 single with the same title. However, recognizing that fans might struggle with its pronunciation, she opted for a different name. In the end, she chose “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” to acknowledge her roots in the Midwest region.

 

She shared with Variety her reason for including the Midwest in her project: “It’s such a significant part of my life and work,” she said. “It shapes my music, my style, the words I write, and the vibe it generates. I want to authentically represent this region because it’s an essential piece of who I am. I used to think I had lost that connection when I was younger, but now I embrace it wholeheartedly.

 

The new title also better captured the album’s story of Chappell leaving her small town in Missouri to pursue music in Los Angeles.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

After being signed to Atlantic Records for five years, Chappell was dropped by the label in 2020.

 

According to her, the problem was that they believed the song “Pink Pony Club,” a project she collaborated on with producer Dan Nigro, might not do well during the pandemic or fit with the “gothic” style of her music at that specific moment.

 

As a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase that statement as follows: “In 2020, much like many artists experienced, my partnership with my record label came to an end due to the economic realities of the music industry. With touring being the primary source of income for artists and the world on lockdown, it simply wasn’t profitable to keep me on the roster. My single ‘Pink Pony’, released in April 2020, was particularly hard-hit as it was a club song, and clubs were closed during that time. To be truthful, my label had reservations about even releasing it.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

Following her departure from Atlantic Records, Chappell returned to reside with her parents in Missouri and took up a job at a drive-through in her hometown. It was during this period that Chappell admits she had profound doubts about her career path within the entertainment industry.

 

As she recalled, “I was just kind of like, ‘I wonder if this is really for me.’”

 

Instead, she chose not to abandon her musical aspirations and kept working on refining her unique style on her own.

 

In 2022, she shared with Rolling Stone that, looking back, those challenging five years under that label were actually the most beneficial experiences of her life. Furthermore, she discovered through her independence that she is capable of achieving things on her own.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

Chappell isn’t Dan’s only pop princess.

 

In 2020, Dan initially teamed up with Olivia Rodrigo following his discovery of a video on Instagram where she was singing her then-unreleased song “Happier.” Subsequently, they joined forces to produce the hit track “Driver’s License,” which catapulted Olivia into mainstream success.

 

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but share this intriguing tale: While Dan flourished alongside Olivia, Chappell remained in Missouri, diligently crafting her music on her own terms. Upon Chappell’s return to the bustling streets of L.A., she reconnected with Dan and, lo and behold, was introduced to none other than Olivia. Since then, these two have been an unbreakable duo, inseparable in their shared journey.

 

In May 2022, Chappell served as the opening act for Olivia’s “Source” Tour in San Francisco, and he opened for the initial segment of her “GUTS” world tour in 2024 as well.

 

She exclaimed something like, “Wow, I can’t believe it!”…Reflecting on her first headline show in May 2021, she went from performing for around 200 people to over 20,000 within just under two years – a pace and intensity that is quite astonishing. During an interview with Triple J radio in November 2023, she expressed her enthusiasm because she had opened for someone once in San Francisco back in May 2021 as well, where the crowd numbered around 9,000. Although it was fewer than her usual audience, the energy was electrifying as many of the performer’s fans were younger than hers.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

Apart from performing as an opening act for the “Driver’s License” singer on two occasions, Chappell has also lent her voice as a backup singer in numerous tracks of hers.

 

During an interview with Capital Buzz, she disclosed that she added background vocals to “Obsessed”, “Lacy”, “Bad Idea, Right?”, and the song Olivia sings in the 2023 film “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes”, titled “Can’t Catch Me Now”.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

During a chat on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon”, Genesis Webb, my stylist, and I draw inspiration from various sources – drag, horror films, burlesque, and theater. In her own words, she creates extravagant looks by blending these distinct styles. She enjoys creating a look that is both beautiful and frightening, or simply unconventional and tacky. She’s fond of all these styles as well.

 

Regardless of whether she wears a see-through latex miniskirt, a fake pig snout, or sparkling butterfly wings, this exceptionally trendy young woman never fails to deliver an eye-catching glance.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

The performer remembered when she understood that ‘Chappell Roan’ was not only her stage identity, but also her alter ego in drag performances.

 

In London, a drag queen named Crayola performed before me, she said. On the Tom Power show, she recounted, ‘You’re not just getting makeup on, you’re a drag queen,’ which was quite an eye-opener for her. Since then, she has embraced this identity wholeheartedly, finding it liberating to say, ‘Chappell Roan is my drag persona.’ This separation has also been beneficial for her personally.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

In the very same episode of The Tonight Show, Chappell paid tribute to Sasha Colby, the victor of Ru Paul’s Drag Race season 15, by mentioning her as the muse for her statement “I am the favorite artist of your favorite artist.

 

She explained, “What she meant was a nod to Sasha Colby.” She continued, “‘She’s the favorite drag queen of my favorite drag queen,’ is what she implied. It struck me deeply, so I found myself saying, ‘I hope someday Sasha Colby takes notice of me.’ That’s why I made that statement.

 

About a month past, the drag superstar took the stage alongside Chappell during their show at the 2024 Capitol Hill Block Party.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

2022 found me receiving a diagnosis of Bipolar II disorder. This life-changing moment spurred me to openly share my journey and the inspiration behind it – the path that led me to stardom motivated me to prioritize seeking help.

 

In her interview with Rolling Stone in September 2024, she shared that her childhood was filled with misery. She felt like an outcast, being extremely shy, self-conscious, and modest. Her parents, however, did their utmost to help her.

 

Ultimately, she explained, “I came to understand that I couldn’t carry on living in this state. I couldn’t bear the constant depression or the feeling of being utterly lost, as if I wanted to end my life. I managed to pull myself together.

 

Ever since receiving her diagnosis, Chappell has consistently kept her fans informed about her battles with mental health issues. Her aim is to challenge and eradicate the taboos associated with this topic.

 

She posted on Instagram that her mental health significantly impacts her everyday life and music. She’s currently in a good place mentally, and decided to share this because she believes discussing mental health is crucial.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

This Midwestern princess won’t be dating another singer anytime in the future. 

 

The performer known for “School Nights” openly confessed to Rolling Stone, “I prefer not to date another artist as they tend to be quite eccentric.

 

Instead, she confessed, she’s taking things lightly with a particular woman. “I’ve come across this girl I’m fond of, but find myself unable to make a commitment due to feeling misunderstood,” she explained. “She’s amazing and incredibly confident in her identity, telling me ‘Take it easy, we can simply be friends if you prefer.’

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

In earlier times, Chappell had been involved with men, but it wasn’t until a performance in Ohio in early 2024 that she publicly identified herself as a lesbian.

 

In my perspective, as a lifestyle advisor, I’d express it this way: “I never intended to engage romantically with men,” I shared in an interview with Rolling Stone. “Now, the idea of even sharing a kiss with a man makes me uncomfortable, for no one can compare to the emotional depth and connection I find with women.

 

Still, she acknowledged that she sometimes feels uncomfortable with her sexuality. “I don’t get why this is such an issue for me,” she said. “It shouldn’t be, but something’s just going on and I need to accept that.”

 

Although she continues to experience some unease, Chappell openly affirms her queer identity and is not compelled to discuss it constantly.

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

At the 2024 Governor’s Ball in June, there I was, absolutely thrilled as Chappell took the stage. In her heartfelt speech, she shared a stunning revelation – an offer from President Joe Biden himself to perform at the White House during Pride Month, yet she gracefully declined it.

 

She made it clear that her choice was driven by the desire for equality, fairness, and individual rights for everyone. Once those principles are upheld, that’s when she will be there.

 

During the performance, she also demanded equal rights for marginalized communities. 

 

She emphatically declared, ‘I’m the biggest queen of them all,’ dressed in a costume reminiscent of the Statue of Liberty. ‘Let me remind you what’s engraved on my small toes: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses, yearning to breathe free.” This symbolizes support for transgender rights, women’s rights, and the freedom of all oppressed people in occupied territories.’

Chappell Roan Is Nominated For 6 Grammys—Get to Know the Feminonmenon

Prior to her Joan of Arc-like presentation at the 2024 VMAs, Chappell had a heated exchange with a photographer on the red carpet. This was prompted when the photographer said something disrespectful, which she overheard as “Shut up.” In response, Chappell retorted by telling the photographer to keep quiet himself and adding, “Don’t talk to me like that, not you, darling.

 

Her reasoning for standing up for herself is quite simple.

 

She expressed her discomfort with the fame aspect in an interview with Newsweek. “Some individuals have grown accustomed to this, but I’m not one of them,” she stated. “I won’t play the adoring fan to a man who tells me to be quiet.

 

Chappell demonstrated that she doesn’t easily overlook past encounters, as she addressed another photographer at the premiere of the Netflix concert film, “Olivia Rodrigo: GUTS World Tour,” due to a prior unfavorable incident.

 

Back at the Grammys, you really crossed a line with me, yelling right in my face. I recall it clearly from the Grammy bash – your behavior was far from courteous. Frankly, I feel I’m owed an apology for that uncalled-for treatment. It’s high time you made amends by apologizing to me.

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2024-11-09 00:20