MTV VMAs 2024 Best New Artist: Will Chappell Roan Emerge Victorious?

Chappell Roan burst onto the music scene in 2020 with her hit single “Pink Pony Club”, which was ranked 3^rd on USA Today’s list of the “10 best songs of 2020.” Born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz in Springfield, Missouri, she got her stage name from Dennis K. Chappell, her late grandfather. The name combines a reference to his favorite song, “The Strawberry Roan.” After signing with Atlantic Records at 17, she released her debut EP School Nights in 2017.

Despite early success, Atlantic dropped her in 2020 for not being “profitable enough.” Undeterred, Chappell went independent and released her smash hit “Femininomemon,” which now has over 45 million Spotify streams. In 2023, she signed with Amusement Records and released her debut album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess. She’s currently embarking on her first major headlining tour.

What Genre is Chappell Roan’s Music?

Though she started with dark pop, Chappell moved into bright, synth-heavy indie pop with singles like “Pink Pony Club.” Her fun, upbeat songs touch on themes like feminism, queer culture, and small-town dreams. She’s been credited as a leader in the current “lesbian pop renaissance.” Songs like “Good Luck Babe!” discuss issues like compulsory heterosexuality and pressure for women to act straight.

Chappell Roan has undoubtedly taken the industry by storm – but is it enough for a win? 22bet.com seem to think so, with odds of 1.57/1, and a huge percentage chance of 63.60% that she’ll scoop the Best New Artist award!

Why Do Fans Love Chappell Roan?

Beyond killer pop looks, Chappell uses her platform for good. She donates $1 per ticket to support Black trans people and encourages fans to do the same. She books local drag queens as openers and speaks out on issues like racial justice, women’s rights, and LGBTQIA+ equality. At the Governors Ball, she called out the White House for inviting her to perform while “lacking liberty, justice, and freedom for all.” Her fans love that she stands up for her beliefs.

What’s the Deal with her Wild Outfits?

Chappell draws fashion inspiration from drag culture, horror movies, burlesque, and theatre. She views her onstage persona as a drag character who’s more confident than her shy real self. Her over-the-top costumes match the playful vibe of songs like “Pink Pony Club.” In an age of airbrushed pop stars, Chappell’s willingness to take risks makes her even more relatable to fans.

Will She Win Best New Artist?

Chappell Roan has exploded in popularity over the past year. She’s charted multiple songs, played major festivals, gone on two headlining tours, and topped the iTunes album chart. Her marching band-inspired bop “Miss America” has burned up TikTok. When fans get behind an artist this much, awards shows must take notice.

From the start, Chappell’s had an incredibly savvy social media presence, connecting with fans in an authentic way. And she writes killer melodies that get stuck in your head for days. Singing about feminism and queerness has allowed her to tap into powerful social movements. But it’s her voice – crystal clear yet full of grit and heart – that makes her music so relatable.

With her outsider persona, massive online following, and undeniably catchy music, Chappell has a very strong chance of winning the VMA for Best New Artist. But she’d better bring her A-game, because the competition is fierce this year. Regardless, we know she’ll use the red carpet and her performance to send a message.