Chappell Roan

The rise of a midwest princess

Chappell Roan, one of the rising pop music stars, has recently drawn attention not only to her music but also to her unique aesthetic that have been missing from our lives lately. Born in 1998, American singer-songwriter Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, better known by her stage name Chappell Roan, has started to share her passion for music and her creative vision through videos on YouTube before signing a label with Atlantic Records in 2015 (later dropped in 2020). The name of Chappell comes from her grandfather, Denis Chappell's favorite song, The Strawberry Roan.

The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess album photoshoot by Ryan Clemens

Chappell Roan's music combines pop and electronic elements to create an emotional experience for listeners. Instead of the recent trend of short songs with hollow lyrics made to go viral, Chappell Roan writes heartfelt lyrics inspired by personal experiences. This allows listeners to connect deeply with her music. Chappell Roan entered the music world with her debut EP School Nights and reached a wide audience with hits like Pink Pony Club and Good Luck Babe.

Good Luck Babe single cover by Ryan Clemens

In March 2024, her Tiny Desk Concert went viral, causing her monthly Spotify listeners to rise. Her album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, has been widely praised ever since. Having discussed her unquestionable success, I would like to focus on Chappell's aesthetics and artistry rather than her chart achievements.

from The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon by Todd Owyoung

Chappell Roan was initially a drag queen-inspired character for Kayleigh, but as her career progressed and she defined herself more comfortably, she started calling it a drag project.

"A drag queen opened for me in London named Crayola. She was like 'oh you are a drag queen!' And that was the first time I'd ever been told that. I was just getting ready, and my makeup wasn't done yet. I need to get my makeup and clothes on and kind of transform and she was like'Honey, you are a drag queen. You are not just getting makeup on you are a drag queen.' That was very altering. I really have taken that on as an identity and it's been very freeing to be like 'Chappel Roan is my drag project.' That's also helped personally to separate it as a job and as a project. And there's me as Kayleigh."
The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess album photoshoot by Ryan Clemens

Chappell Roan's outfits and makeup reflect her creative artistry. With her signature white-faced drag makeup and 80s-inspired avant-garde outfits, she creates a unique and memorable style. Her camp aesthetic does not match any of the current trends and sets her apart from the other mainstream artists. A camp aesthetic is characterized by its over-the-top, exaggerated, and often humorous qualities. Her mix of camp and avant-garde influences emphasizes her individuality.

Chappell Roan from Tiny Desk Concert

Chappell Roan continues to be an important figure with her music and aesthetics. Her stage performances, heartfelt lyrics, and creative vision distinguish her from other artists, ensuring her lasting impact on the industry. Recently, Chappell's fans have become so interested in his personal life that Chappell has become uncomfortable to the point of considering quitting music. Hoping this is a temporary decision, may she continue to share her unique art and creativity with the world.