Chappell Roan embodies the essence of a modern pop sensation, showcasing an extraordinary blend of dazzling drag aesthetics and an electrifying stage presence that sets her apart from the crowd. Her theatrical performances have drawn comparisons to iconic artists like Lady Gaga and Katy Perry; however, Roan infuses her artistry with a unique flair that captivates audiences in an unparalleled way.
In the past year, Chappell Roan has soared to new professional heights, making her mark in cities across the country and gracing the stages of major music festivals such as Coachella and Lollapalooza. Among her various performances, a select few have showcased her remarkable talent, and we highlight the top ten unforgettable moments that have defined her emerging career.
10
Hinterland Music Festival
The Church Of Chappell
Chappell Roan transformed the Hinterland Music Festival in Iowa into a vibrant spectacle during her Sunday performance. Donning an eye-catching nun’s ensemble, she launched her set with the powerful anthem “Femininomenon.”The crowd erupted with excitement as she poured her heart into the performance, igniting the festival’s final day with electric energy, a moment that resonated online well after the event.
Roan played an influential role in elevating the Hinterland Music Festival’s profile, with this year’s lineup featuring prominent names in the industry. Her captivating performance not only marked a triumph for the festival but also propelled Roan to refine her live offerings based on audience feedback.
9
Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival
She Still Loves You, Tennessee
Just weeks prior to the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, organizers opted to shift Chappell Roan’s performance to the main stage due to her rapid ascent in popularity. The strategic relocation paid off, as an enthusiastic crowd flocked to witness her captivating act.
Styled in a striking yellow and blue vinyl nurse’s costume, Roan’s look quickly became a sensation on social media. Featuring her upbeat track “Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl,”her performance showcased an infectious energy that left fans buzzing. This event marked the grand finale of one leg of her Midwest Princess Tour, where she undoubtedly left a lasting impression.
8
Kentuckiana
The Pink Pony Girl Takes Pride
Chappell Roan made headlines during her appearance at the Kentucky Pride Festival, where her performance drew an unprecedented crowd of over 25,000 attendees, leading to the event’s first-ever sellout. The atmosphere at Big Four Lawn was charged as attendees congregated to witness her live act.
The drag queen, inspired by Divine from Pink Flamingos, donned a stunning tribute outfit that perfectly complemented the spirit of the Pride Festival. Roan’s performance was not only a celebration of her artistry but also an emotional tribute to queer culture and identity.
7
Saturday Night Live
She Gets The Job Done
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During her debut on Saturday Night Live, Chappell Roan thrilled audiences with an unreleased song, “The Giver.”Infusing country influences reminiscent of legends like Dolly Parton, this new track diverged from her usual style while retaining her bold essence. Fans celebrated the unapologetic lyrics, especially the memorable line, “Ain’t no country boy quitter / I get the job done.”
With this groundbreaking performance, Roan solidified her status as a modern queer icon. Discussing her artistry in an Apple Music interview, she remarked:
I think I have a special relationship to where I’m from because of country music, and [I] honor that part of myself by making a country song… I’m gay and yes, I am ultra pop, yes, I am a drag queen who can also perform a country song.
6
The 67th Annual Grammy Awards
The Crowning Of The Midwest Princess
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At the Grammy Awards, where most artists select to perform a medley of hits, Chappell Roan defied the norm with a full presentation of her acclaimed song “Pink Pony Club,”dressed as a dazzling cowgirl complete with a feathered hat and cowboy boots. Accompanied by dancers in rodeo clown attire, her performance became one of the most memorable moments of the night.
The crowd, featuring several high-profile celebrities, couldn’t resist dancing along, marking an emphatic endorsement of Roan’s live talent. Shortly after her outstanding performance, she was awarded Best New Artist, a testament to her extraordinary artistry—a moment that undoubtedly captured the attention of audiences everywhere.
5
The Governor’s Ball
She’s Serving Statue
Chappell Roan debuted one of her most memorable drag personas as the Statue of Liberty during her performance at The Governor’s Ball. Her eye-catching outfit sparked significant buzz online as she electrified the audience in New York City.
More than just a visually stunning tribute, Roan conveyed a powerful message as she addressed the crowd:
I am in drag of the biggest queen of all. But in case you had forgotten what’s etched on my pretty little toes, ‘Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.’
This performance followed her groundbreaking debut at Coachella, highlighting Roan’s growing influence in the music scene. Her passionate cry for human rights during a compelling set affirmed her designation as a notable figure within the industry.
4
MTV Video Music Awards
Her Majesty Stunts In Shining Armor
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Among the many striking ensembles in Chappell Roan’s wardrobe, her medieval armor suit for the MTV Video Music Awards truly stands out. Entering with flair, equipped with a flaming bow and arrow, she ignited the stage during her performance of the lively track “Good Luck, Babe!”
Her staging and performance rank among the most elaborate in her career, leaving an indelible mark on the VMAs. With this captivating display, Roan demonstrated that television performances can rival those of grand touring shows.
3
Boston Calling
The Calm Before The Storm
After an exhilarating performance at Coachella, Chappell Roan took the stage at the Boston Calling Music Festival to fanfare. Audience anticipation grew as she donned an elaborate red coat with luxurious black fur accents, unveiling a vibrant red ensemble beneath.
A highlight of her set was the wildly interactive performance of “HOT TO GO!”where Roan engaged the crowd, teaching them a dance reminiscent of the classic “Y.M.C.A.”The infectious energy of her performance sent waves across social media, capturing the hearts of thousands who gathered to see her. Aerial footage shared by the festival showcased the magnitude of her blossoming fanbase.
2
Coachella Weekend 1
Babe, She Broke The Internet
Surprisingly, ahead of her Coachella debut in 2024, Chappell Roan had not previously performed at a festival. Her first festival performance was nothing short of mesmerizing, showcasing her in a bold tank top emblazoned with “EAT ME”and a bedazzled choker, marking her entry with unmatched confidence.
During her inaugural set, Roan performed her new song, “Good Luck, Babe!”leaving the audience in awe with her impressive vocal range and command. With fan videos circulating online and the performance streaming live, Chappell Roan quickly became a hot topic, raising expectations for what she would do next.
1
Lollapalooza
A Record-Breaking Femininomenon
Without a doubt, Chappell Roan’s standout performance at Lollapalooza marks a milestone in her career, where she shattered attendance records for daytime sets. Taking command of the main stage at Chicago’s Grant Park, the strategic decision to move her set proved prescient when the massive crowd gathered to see her.
A representative from Lollapalooza remarked in an interview with CNN:
Chappell’s performance was the biggest daytime set we’ve ever seen. It was a magical moment added to Lolla’s DNA.
Dressed in a dazzling pink and blue wrestling bodysuit, complete with matching gloves and a mask, Chappell Roan commanded the stage with unprecedented confidence. This performance not only marked a personal triumph for her but also solidified her status in the music industry as a powerful presence on stage.