Exclusive: Chappell Roan on the Unexpected Grammy She Aspires to Win
Most musicians aspire to clutch a Grammy, yet Chappell Roan's sights are set on a singular prize.
At 26, this pop sensation has rocketed into stardom. Her debut album, "The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess," soared on the Billboard 200 Chart, just behind Taylor Swift. She mesmerized record-breaking audiences at festivals such as Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits. The MTV Video Music Awards crowned her Best New Artist.
Capping this phenomenal year with a Grammy seems fitting. As Recording Academy voting wrapped up on October 15, Roan stood poised for a Best New Artist nod, among others. Yet accolades leave her unmoved.
"I'm sort of hoping I don't win, so folks can get off my back," she divulged in a recent chat.
Roan confesses little regard for the buzz surrounding her meteoric career rise.
"I've never cared about charts or radio play, but it's wild how industry folks now take me seriously," she remarked in Interview magazine. "I've been doing this all along, folks."
Yet one award holds sway over Roan — an accolade few know.
The Grammy for Best Recording Package honors an album's visual artistry, recognizing its art director. Roan, alongside creative director Ramisha Sattar, took to social media, rallying support for this category.
"Please, cast a spell or send energy our way for a nomination," Roan implored in their video. "It's not televised, little known, but it means a Grammy win for us both. We must be nominated."
Roan has made headlines for candid interviews, political musings, and her support for Vice President Kamala Harris. Recently, she prioritized mental health over festival appearances.
Though media interviews have ceased since her endorsement and canceled gigs, she explained Sattar's pivotal role via email to CNN this week.
"She crafts my aesthetics, merchandise, and the essence of campiness. She brings camp into the project. That's rare and deserves recognition," Roan shared with CNN.
Sattar, who connected with Roan through Instagram, is the architect of the flamboyant, Gen Z Lisa Frank-style, synonymous with Roan's drag-inspired persona. From animations to single covers, makeup, and wardrobe, Sattar's influence is profound.
"She embodies Chappell Roan as much as I do," Roan expressed to CNN. "Ramisha is Chappell Roan too."
This week, Roan and Sattar introduced a paper doll kit accompanying her vinyl album, complete with a theater curtain sleeve for fans to craft their stage. Co-created by Sattar and Roan, the packaging vies for Grammy recognition. They hope these paper dolls ignite creativity in Roan's audience.
"We always envisioned paper dolls," Sattar told CNN via email. "Designing the vinyl with Chappell, we intended for more to follow. A theater frame for fans to personalize was a joy for us. I wish my art to spark creativity, encouraging DIY endeavors. The tactile joy of art is often lost with age, so I champion playful expression."
Sattar describes working with Roan as "craft night, every night," lauding her as a visionary partner.
In a realm where artists bask in glory, Roan seeks to spotlight her team.
"This project is a collective effort. It's everyone's creativity making it thrive," Roan conveyed to CNN, dubbing Sattar her "twin flame."
As Grammy nominations unveil on November 8, Roan and Sattar hope for recognition in the packaging realm, yearning for a televised moment.
"I wish it aired, letting more people witness the art of packaging," Sattar expressed.
"Ramisha inspires me by embracing her inner child and what delights her. It's how I strive to lead my project — genuinely, honoring my inner child," Roan reflected on their synergy. "We fuel each other, but she's emotionally opened many doors for me with art and liberation.
