Introduction
Chappell Roan, born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz on February 19, 1998, is an American singer, songwriter, and performer known for her theatrical performances, bold visuals, and emotionally raw pop music.
Hailing from Willard, Missouri, Roan has crafted a unique identity in the pop world, blending camp aesthetics, drag culture, and 80s-inspired synth-pop into her signature style. From being dropped by a major record label to winning the Grammy for Best New Artist in 2025, her rise to fame is a story of resilience, reinvention, and raw talent.
Quick Facts About Chappell Roan
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kayleigh Rose Amstutz |
| Stage Name | Chappell Roan |
| Date of Birth | February 19, 1998 |
| Age (2025) | 27 Years |
| Birthplace | Willard, Missouri, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Sexuality | Queer |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Performer |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Weight | 58 kg (127 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Brown (Often dyed) |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Father | Not publicly known |
| Mother | Not publicly known |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Education | High School Graduate |
| Debut Single | Die Young (2017) |
| Debut Album | The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess (2023) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $3 Million USD |
Early Life & Musical Beginnings
Growing Up in Missouri
Chappell Roan was born and raised in Willard, Missouri, a small, conservative town in the Midwest. Growing up in a strict religious community, she often felt like an outsider and turned to music as an escape.
From a young age, Roan showed an interest in singing, performing in school choirs and talent shows.
Choosing Her Stage Name
Her stage name is a tribute to her late grandfather, Dennis Chappell, who loved the song “The Strawberry Roan” by Marty Robbins.
Early Career: Signing & Being Dropped by Atlantic Records (2017-2020)
At 16, Roan wrote an original song called “Die Young” and uploaded it to YouTube. The song caught the attention of Atlantic Records, leading to a record deal at 17.
The “School Nights” EP (2017)
- In 2017, she released her debut EP, School Nights.
- It had a folk-pop sound, which didn’t fit her true artistic vision.
- The EP didn’t perform well commercially, and Atlantic Records dropped her in 2020.
After being dropped, she returned home to Missouri and worked as a barista while figuring out her next move.
Reinvention & Breakthrough as an Independent Artist (2020-2023)
The Birth of Her New Sound: “Pink Pony Club” (2020)
- Inspired by drag culture and LGBTQ+ nightlife, Roan wrote Pink Pony Club.
- The song is about leaving her small town and embracing her queerness in Los Angeles.
- It became a cult favorite, especially among LGBTQ+ audiences.
Roan fully embraced a theatrical, 80s-inspired pop persona, wearing campy costumes and exaggerated makeup.
Debut Album: The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess (2023)
Roan’s first full-length album, “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess”, was released in September 2023.
Key Themes in the Album
- Leaving behind her conservative upbringing
- Embracing her queer identity
- Heartbreak, love, and self-discovery
- Nostalgic 80s & early 2000s pop sound
Hit Singles from the Album
| Song | Release Year | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Pink Pony Club | 2020 | Became a cult classic in LGBTQ+ communities |
| Red Wine Supernova | 2023 | Became a viral hit on TikTok |
| Casual | 2023 | Explores complicated relationships |
| Good Luck, Babe! | 2024 | Became her biggest song, hitting Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 |
This album gained critical acclaim, with many calling it one of the best pop records of the decade.
2024-2025: Grammy Nomination & Mainstream Success
Grammy Win: Best New Artist (2025)
- In February 2025, Roan won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist.
- Her acceptance speech was powerful, criticizing major record labels for not supporting young artists.
- She highlighted the financial struggles of independent musicians and called for better industry support.
Viral Performances
Roan became known for over-the-top, campy live performances:
- Coachella 2024: She performed in full drag queen-inspired makeup.
- SNL Debut 2025: Her performance of “Good Luck, Babe!” was called one of the best of the year.
Artistic Style & Influence
Chappell Roan’s music is heavily influenced by:
- Lady Gaga – for her bold theatricality.
- Marina & The Diamonds – for her lyric-driven pop.
- Kate Bush – for her dramatic storytelling.
She is often compared to early Katy Perry and Carly Rae Jepsen, but with a more alternative, queer-focused twist.
LGBTQ+ Advocacy
As an openly queer artist, Roan is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and self-expression.
Personal Life & Relationships
- Roan is currently single and has said she prioritizes her career over dating.
- She has spoken openly about her experiences growing up in a conservative town and how it shaped her artistic identity.
Net Worth & Earnings (2025)
As of 2025, Chappell Roan’s net worth is estimated at $3 million USD.
Income Sources
- Music Sales & Streaming – Millions of streams on Spotify & Apple Music
- Live Performances & Tours – Selling out shows worldwide
- Brand Deals & Fashion Collaborations
Upcoming Projects (2025 & Beyond)
- World Tour: Headlining her first global tour.
- New Music: She has teased a second album for late 2025.
- Possible Collaborations: Rumored collab with Charli XCX and Troye Sivan.
Fun Facts About Chappell Roan
✔ She designs her own costumes – Inspired by drag queens and vintage glam.
✔ Her dream collaboration? Lady Gaga.
✔ She once worked as a barista in Missouri before her career took off.
✔ Biggest Pop Idol? She grew up idolizing Britney Spears & Madonna.
Conclusion
Chappell Roan’s journey from a small-town girl in Missouri to a Grammy-winning pop star is a testament to resilience, creativity, and authenticity.
With her unique camp-pop style, theatrical performances, and LGBTQ+ representation, she is poised to become one of the defining pop artists of her generation.
