Chappell Roan: Anatomy of a Pop Star
Anyone can make pop music, but not everyone can be a pop star. In such a cutthroat industry, how can an artist rise above harsh critics and the glaring eye of the public and forge their way to stardom?
If you haven’t been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard of Chappell Roan recently. Whether it's the provocative lyrics of “Casual” blaring as you scroll through your TikTok or videos of friends performing the “HOT TO GO!” dance, the rising Midwest Princess has been making waves this past year.
But what is it about Roan that has caught the public's attention? And what qualities make up a pop star?
The anatomy of a pop star reveals that style is paramount. The attire artists sport on stage or in music videos is vital to their overall brand, and Roan certainly has style. The singer collaborates with stylist Genesis Webb to create striking, campy stage outfits that amplify her performance. At the Governors Ball Music Festival in New York, she graced the stage as Lady Liberty. For her Coachella set, she appeared as a sparkly, pink butterfly. If there is no dress code, Roan creates her own.
We see how essential style is when we examine another pop icon, Lady Gaga. Who can forget the infamous 2010 VMAS meat dress designed by Franc Fernandez that still has people talking today? Throughout Gaga’s career, she has never been afraid to push boundaries with her style. Both Gaga and Roan expertly utilize their outfits as an extension of their artistry and image.
Style is not just clothes, but hair and makeup. Inspired by and dedicated to drag queens, Roan works with makeup artists like Andrew Dahling and Ali Scharf to deliver continuously glamorous looks that often feature colorful, bedazzled eyeshadow with bright pink blush on top of a white base. Many users on social media have shared videos replicating her makeup or sharing their inspired looks. Roan’s makeup is an extension of her art and a form of unapologetic expression that many are drawn to.
In addition to her beloved makeup looks, Roan’s hair has become an integral part of her brand. Bright red, curly hair is typically seen on her, with the occasional use of a wig during performances. She is not the only pop star whose hair has become synonymous with their image. Singer Ariana Grande, known for her remarkable vocals and pop hits, has also been recognized for her iconic, signature ponytail that has become intrinsic to her popstar image. Miley Cyrus made national headlines when she decided to ditch her long, brown locks for a blonde pixie cut that not only became a symbol for her infamous Bangerz era, but a symbol of her new-found freedom and creativity. A pop star's likeness is greatly contributed by their hair, whether intentionally or not.
Along with style, what takes a pop artist to a pop star is something that is not taught but given as a natural talent—stage presence. Chappell Roan possesses this gift. She commands the stage and audience with such ease and expertise, it is electrifying. When she calls for the entire crowd to sing the bridge of her hit "Pink Pony Club," they obey, passionately vocalizing every word. In “HOT TO GO!” she gets all audience members to join in on the now infamous dance.
Roan’s performances are theatrical, thrilling, and intoxicating. When she’s on stage, it's clear that she's not just a pop artist; she is a pop star.
Other artists, such as Madonna and Beyonce, found acclaim in the industry due to their remarkable stage presence, captivating crowds with their charisma and confidence on the stage. that have certified both of them as not just pop stars, but pop legends.
As we look at the trajectory of the careers of so many beloved pop stars, we see how they found stardom. Style plays an important role, with artists’ outfits, hair and makeup seeping into their overall image and reputation. Stage presence and how artists conduct themselves in front of a crowd are also significant.
However, despite the importance of things such as style and stage presence, what makes a pop star is just pure talent. Chappell Roan is a pop star, partly because of her unique style and natural charisma on stage, but mainly because of her pure talent that will soon have her up there with the rest of the greats.