The 2025 Grammy Awards delivered plenty of memorable moments, but one of the biggest highlights of the night was Chappell Roan taking home the coveted Best New Artist award. The Missouri-born singer, known for her colorful style and unapologetic personality, beat out a stacked list of nominees, including rising star Sabrina Carpenter.

Photo: Getty Images
Roan, visibly emotional as she took the stage, made sure her moment wasn't just about celebration—she used it to make a powerful statement. Dressed in her signature drag-inspired makeup and a striking yellow cone hat, she called on the music industry to do better by its artists.
"I told myself that if I ever got to stand up here in front of the most powerful people in music, I would demand that labels and the industry profiting millions of dollars off of artists offer a livable wage," she declared.
Roan shared her own struggles, recalling how she was signed as a minor and later dropped by her label, leaving her unable to afford basic necessities like health insurance. "We (music artists) got you, but do you got us?" she asked the industry figures in the audience.
From Small-Town Dreamer to Grammy Winner
Born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, Roan’s journey to Grammy gold wasn’t a straight shot. She first attempted to break into the industry by auditioning for America’s Got Talent, only to be turned away. Undeterred, she turned to YouTube in 2013, covering popular songs while honing her own unique style.

Photo: AFP
In 2015, she finally caught a break, landing a deal with Atlantic Records after performing her original song "Die Young" at various showcases. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing—Roan was eventually dropped by the label, forcing her to navigate the music world independently.
A Cult Favorite Turned Mainstream Success
Roan’s breakthrough moment came with her 2020 release of Pink Pony Club, a disco-infused anthem inspired by her experience at the legendary West Hollywood bar, The Abbey. While the song didn't immediately take off, it slowly built momentum, ultimately becoming a sleeper hit years after its release.
Her 2023 debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, cemented her as a pop powerhouse, blending '80s synth-pop, disco, and techno influences with deeply personal storytelling. The album resonated with fans, leading to sold-out performances at events like the 2024 Kentuckiana Pride Festival and Lollapalooza.
Adding to her growing résumé, Roan also opened for Olivia Rodrigo on the Guts World Tour, further boosting her visibility on the pop scene.
A Voice for the LGBTQ+ Community
Roan, who is openly queer, has never shied away from using her platform to champion LGBTQ+ rights, feminism, and drag culture. Her music and performances reflect her commitment to self-expression and inclusivity, making her a beloved figure among queer and alternative pop fans.
Following in the Footsteps of Greats
Winning Best New Artist at the Grammys has historically been a launching pad for megastars, with past recipients including Adele and Dua Lipa. If Roan’s trajectory so far is any indication, she’s well on her way to solidifying her place as one of pop’s most exciting and influential voices.
As she basks in her well-deserved victory, one thing is certain—Chappell Roan is just getting started.
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