The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess by CHAPPELL ROAN: Review
Photo credit: @ ChappellRoan on instagram
Chappell Roan’s debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, is a glittering triumph of bold, campy, and unapologetic pop. Released on September 22, 2023, this album is a vivid exploration of self-discovery, queerness, and the messy journey from small-town roots to big-city dreams. With tracks steeped in 80s-inspired pop energy, Roan crafts a collection of songs that are simultaneously introspective and wildly celebratory.
The album opens with the theatrical “Femininomenon,” setting the tone with lush orchestration and biting lyrics that dissect disappointing relationships. This cinematic intro gives way to a series of queer-coded anthems and catchy bangers, including standouts like “Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl” and “Hot To Go!” These tracks ooze playful brattiness, combining humor with themes of empowerment. Roan’s knack for balancing wit and vulnerability shines in songs like “Casual,” a bittersweet ballad about yearning for deeper connection, and “Red Wine Supernova,” an unapologetically queer anthem brimming with clever innuendo.
What makes Midwest Princess so engaging is its duality: it’s both deeply personal and universally relatable. Tracks like “California” reflect on the bittersweetness of leaving behind one home to find another, capturing the ache of change and the thrill of reinvention. Meanwhile, songs such as “Naked in Manhattan” revel in unabashed queerness, offering a refreshing perspective in the pop landscape.
Critics have praised Roan for her ability to blend the energy of icons like Lady Gaga and Madonna with her unique voice, creating an album that’s as much about identity as it is about having fun. Her use of humor and camp is a highlight, drawing listeners into a world where vulnerability and theatricality coexist beautifully. While some ballads on the album may feel less impactful compared to its high-energy hits, the overall cohesion of the record is a testament to Roan’s vision and artistry.
With The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, Chappell Roan positions herself as a rising star in the pop genre, delivering an album that’s not just music but a celebration of individuality and self-expression. Whether you’re dancing in your bedroom or reflecting on your own journey, this album offers something special for everyone. It’s a dazzling debut that promises even more brilliance to come from Roan in the future.
The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess is out now on all major streaming platforms
