Chappell Roan says she would ‘be more successful if I wore a muzzle’
3 min read
Chappell Roan, the 26-year-old pop singer, has opened up about the challenges of maintaining her authenticity in the entertainment industry and the pressures that come with being a public figure. In a candid interview with BBC, Roan discussed her viral moment at the MTV Awards, where she was seen cursing at a photographer whom she perceived as aggressive. She also touched on her frustrations with fans who “stalk” her parents’ home, a topic she’s not shied away from in public conversations.
Roan, known for her unapologetic attitude, explained that her response to disrespect is something she’s been doing her whole life. However, the difference now is that as a pop star, her reactions are constantly captured on camera, making her actions often more scrutinized. She likened this clash of her natural instinct and the expectations of the industry to oil and water, highlighting the disconnect between her authentic self and the image the public might expect from her as a successful artist.
The singer reflected on how her honesty and outspokenness might impact her career, jokingly suggesting that she would be “more successful if I wore a muzzle.” She laughed as she explained that if she held back more and ignored her instincts, she could be a much bigger star. “If I were to override more of my basic instincts, where my heart is going, ‘Stop, stop, stop, you’re not OK,’ I would be bigger,” Roan said. “I would be way bigger. And I would still be on tour right now.”
However, despite the sacrifices she feels are necessary for mainstream success, Roan isn’t one to compromise her values for fame. Her current career trajectory shows that she is far from a “fizzled-out” artist. In fact, Roan’s debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, has earned her six Grammy nominations, including one for Best New Artist. Her impressive recognition in the music industry serves as a testament to her immense talent, even if she hasn’t conformed to the stereotypical pop star mold.
Roan also discussed the importance of mental health and personal boundaries. She made the conscious decision not to extend her 2024 concert tour, emphasizing that her well-being comes first. “If I don’t feel like doing this right now, there are always options,” she shared. “There is not a scarcity of opportunity. I think about that all the time.” Her ability to prioritize herself over industry pressures sets her apart from other artists who may feel they need to push forward regardless of the toll it takes on their mental health.
In her conversation with BBC, Roan reflected on how staying true to her heart was crucial in navigating the high expectations placed on her. She acknowledged that the entertainment industry often expects artists to be overly compliant or accommodating, but Roan is committed to resisting those pressures. She’s focused on making decisions that align with her values rather than what others expect of her. “If I can look back and say, ‘I did not crumble under the weight of expectation, and I did not stand for being abused or blackmailed,’ at least I stayed true to my heart,” she stated.
Roan’s career path reveals a larger conversation about how artists, especially women in the music industry, must navigate fame and success while protecting their mental health. She’s one of the few artists openly discussing the pressure to conform to expectations and the potential toll it can take on one’s identity. Her approach shows that success doesn’t always mean sacrificing who you are; sometimes, it’s about staying true to yourself, even if that means making difficult decisions like stepping back when needed.
As she continues to carve out her place in the music world, Roan’s candidness and authenticity have made her a role model for many aspiring artists. Her journey emphasizes that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to success and that following your instincts, even in the face of criticism, can lead to greater fulfillment and long-term achievement. Whether or not she takes the conventional route to stardom, Roan’s ability to remain grounded in her own beliefs serves as a reminder that personal integrity should never be compromised for fame.
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