Chappell Roan Named BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2025

Pop sensation Chappell Roan has been crowned the winner of BBC Radio 1‘s Sound of 2025, an annual poll recognizing rising artists with the best chance of mainstream success. The 26-year-old singer, born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, was selected by a panel of over 180 music industry figures and artists, including global stars Dua Lipa and Elton John.

Roan, signed to Island Records, triumphed over jazz group Ezra Collective, Barry Can't Swim, Myles Smith, and Mercury Prize winners English Teacher. Her breakout single, “Good Luck, Babe!,” peaked at No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart in September 2024, five months after its release. The achievement caps a stellar year for Roan, who also won the top new artist prize at the Billboard Music Awards and earned six Grammy nominations.

Her debut album, *The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess*, released in September 2023, enjoyed a resurgence in 2024, climbing to No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart. Roan’s unique stage presence, marked by elaborate outfits and high-energy performances, has made her a festival favorite. She is set to headline major events in 2025, including Primavera Sound in Barcelona and Reading & Leeds Festival in England.

BBC Radio 1 DJ Jack Saunders praised Roan, stating, “No one deserves this accolade more than Chappell Roan. She was the most exciting artist of the last 12 months and is now set to be THE artist of the next 12 months.”

Roan’s journey to stardom has been marked by resilience. After being dropped by her label during the pandemic, she found inspiration in her experiences as a queer artist, leading to the creation of her viral hit “Pink Pony Club.” Her music, which often explores themes of identity and self-acceptance, has resonated with a global audience.

Previous winners of the BBC Sound of poll include Adele, Florence + The Machine, and Sam Smith. Roan joins an elite group of artists who have gone on to achieve global success after being recognized by the prestigious list.