In a recent Rolling Stone interview, pop sensation Chappell Roan opened up about her whirlwind journey to fame, the challenges she’s faced, and the supportive messages she’s received from other music industry icons along the way.
Roan, known for her hit single “HOT TO GO!”, shared that fellow artists, including Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, and Mitski, have been there for her as she navigates the pressures of rising fame. Roan revealed that Carpenter, also signed to Island Records, reached out for a heartfelt conversation after both experienced eventful summers. “We’re both going through something so hard,” Roan explained. “She feels like things are just spiraling, and she’s hanging on by a thread. It was comforting to know someone else understands.”
Charli XCX, enjoying her own success with her album BRAT, was one of the first to check in with Roan, especially following concerns about fans crossing personal boundaries. Alternative artist Mitski also reached out with a message of solidarity, humorously describing the toll that fame can bring. “I just wanted to humbly welcome you to the shittiest exclusive club in the world,” Mitski wrote in an email, referring to the strain of public attention that often impacts family and personal life.
According to the article, Roan has also received unexpected messages of encouragement from major names in the industry. Billie Eilish, for instance, reached out, expressing that Roan’s song “Good Luck, Babe!” is her favorite of the year. Meanwhile, Hayley Williams of Paramore extended an open offer to chat, which Roan described as “incredibly reassuring,” admiring Williams’ resilience. Additionally, Katy Perry advised her to avoid reading online comments, while Lorde shared practical tips on staying under the radar in airports. Muna, the indie pop band, even hosted her for a relaxing dinner, giving her a break from the public eye.
Further adding to her list of supporters, Miley Cyrus invited her to a party, and Lady Gaga passed along her personal contact, though Roan admits she’s been too shy to respond. During quieter moments, she’s met with singer-songwriters Lucy Dacus and Julien Baker for coffee and walks, forming bonds over shared experiences. Phoebe Bridgers, Baker’s bandmate in the group boygenius, also visited Roan, providing a safe space to talk about the increasingly intense nature of fan interactions, which they agreed have become alarmingly “abusive and violent.”
The support from such a diverse group of artists highlights the solidarity within the music industry, showing how even the biggest stars face similar struggles and rely on each other for encouragement and understanding. For Roan, the kindness and camaraderie she’s experienced on this journey serve as a reminder that, despite the challenges of fame, she’s not alone in facing them.