Grammy 2025: Will Chappell Roan Win Best New Artist?

The 67th Annual Grammy Awards nominations have sparked the usual flurry of speculation, but one category stands out: Best New Artist. While the name suggests emerging talent, the Grammy definition emphasizes creative innovation within the music industry, regardless of an artist’s catalog depth. Among the diverse nominees, one name resonates with particular force: Chappell Roan.

From Midwest Princess to Global Phenomenon

Chappell Roan’s journey is a testament to resilience and artistic evolution. From uploading covers on YouTube to signing with Atlantic Records in her teens, Roan’s early career laid the groundwork for her current success. Her 2017 EP, School Nights, offered a glimpse into her potential, but it was the 2020 single “Pink Pony Club” that marked a turning point. Ironically, being dropped by Atlantic that same year became a catalyst for her independent growth.

The subsequent release of “Naked in Manhattan” in 2022 signaled a new era for Roan, embracing her queer identity with vulnerability and authenticity. Opening for Olivia Rodrigo’s Sour Tour and Fletcher’s Girl of My Dreams Tour further amplified her visibility. The release of her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, in 2023 cemented her status as a rising star.

Critical Acclaim and Commercial Success

The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess garnered widespread critical acclaim, appearing on numerous “Best of 2023” lists. While initially a slow burn, the album’s popularity exploded in 2024, fueled by Roan’s captivating live performances, including a supporting slot on Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts World Tour and appearances at major festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza. The release of “Good Luck, Babe!” propelled the album to international chart success, reaching number one in several countries.

Will she also win Best New Artist at the 2025 Grammys? Betting site 22bet21.com thinks the odds are high, at 1.25/1 or 80%.

The Case for Chappell Roan

Several factors point towards Roan as a frontrunner for Best New Artist. Rolling Stone has championed her artistry, praising her unique vision and meteoric rise. Her music resonates with a growing fanbase, drawn to her candid lyrics, 80s synth-pop influences, and captivating stage presence. Her open embrace of her queer identity has also garnered significant attention and support.

The Competition

While Roan is a strong contender, the Best New Artist category is filled with talented individuals. Artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Doechii, Benson Boone, Raye, Khruangbin, Shaboozey, and Teddy Swims each bring unique strengths to the table. Carpenter’s established pop presence, Doechii’s innovative rap style, and the other nominees’ distinct musical contributions make for a competitive field.

The Grammy X-Factor

Predicting Grammy winners is always a complex endeavor. While critical acclaim and commercial success play a role, the Recording Academy’s voting process remains somewhat enigmatic. Personal preferences and industry trends can influence the final outcome.

Chappell Roan’s trajectory from independent artist to global sensation is undeniable. Her artistic evolution, critical acclaim, and growing fanbase position her as a serious contender for Best New Artist. While the competition is fierce, Roan’s unique blend of vulnerability, camp aesthetic, and infectious pop sensibilities makes her a compelling choice. Whether she takes home the Grammy or not, Chappell Roan’s impact on the music landscape is undeniable, and her future in the industry remains bright.