
American singer-songwriter Chappell Roan has been named the winner of BBC Radio 1’s prestigious Sound of 2025 poll, solidifying her status as one of the most anticipated artists of the year. The announcement was made on January 10, 2025, following a vote by over 180 industry experts, including notable figures such as Sir Elton John, Dua Lipa, and Sam Smith.
Chappell Roan’s ascent in the music industry has been nothing short of meteoric. Her single “Good Luck, Babe!” achieved a remarkable #2 position on the U.K. singles chart, while her album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess topped the album chart.
Hailing from Willard, Missouri, and born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, Chappell Roan has quickly made a name for herself with her bold, genre-defying sound and unapologetic approach to self-expression. Influenced by the world of drag and the LGBTQ+ community, Roan’s performances often incorporate dramatic flair and campy aesthetics, drawing comparisons to icons like Lady Gaga and David Bowie. Her unique blend of synth-pop and theatrical performances has garnered widespread acclaim, positioning her as a leading figure in contemporary pop music.
The BBC Radio 1 Sound of 2025 poll is renowned for highlighting emerging talent poised to make a significant impact in the music industry. According to the Bristol Post, past winners include Adele, Ellie Goulding, and 50 Cent.
The 2025 longlist featured a diverse array of artists, such as Barry Can’t Swim, Confidence Man, Doechii, English Teacher, Ezra Collective, and Myles Smith. Chappell Roan’s victory underscores her growing influence and the industry’s recognition of her exceptional talent.
The 26-year-old was presented with the award by Radio 1’s New Music host Jack Saunders, who remarked, “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. The success is all her own doing: standing tall in the face of the doubters and keeping her community close to fuel the energy of her shows and musical movements. Congratulations Chappell, 2025 is your year!” as reported by the BBC. The announcement has been met with widespread enthusiasm from both fans and industry professionals.
As the winner of the Sound of 2025 poll, Chappell Roan is poised for a year of significant achievements. Her upcoming performances at major festivals, including Primavera Sound 2025 in Barcelona, where she is set to headline alongside Charli XCX and Sabrina Carpenter, are highly anticipated, as reported by Billboard.
With her innovative approach to pop music and a growing fan base, Chappell Roan is set to leave an indelible mark on the music industry in 2025 and beyond.