Exploring if Chappell Roan Provided Background Vocals for Olivia Rodrigo Before Gaining Viral Fame
Olivia Rodrigo’s latest album, Guts, has impressed fans not only with its catchy tunes but also with a surprising revelation about its backing vocals. Chappell Roan, a 26-year-old singer, quietly toured with Rodrigo and lent her distinctive voice to several tracks. This discovery coincided with Rodrigo’s growing popularity and Roan’s own TikTok success in recent months.
Roan’s vocals bring a unique depth to Rodrigo’s music, subtly enhancing beloved songs and contributing to the album’s dynamic production. Rodrigo herself has acknowledged Roan’s input, emphasizing how collaborations like these enhance the overall listening experience of her music.
Roan’s Vocal Contributions and Studio Collaboration with Dan
Rodrigo’s transparency about the behind-the-scenes work reflects the collaborative nature of music, where artists leverage each other’s talents. As fans enjoy Rodrigo’s music, they gain a deeper appreciation for the creativity and effort behind each song. Roan’s role in Guts not only showcases her vocal skills but also enriches the album’s narrative, highlighting musical synergy.
Roan, 26, revealed that she provided lead vocals for songs like “Lacy” and “Obsessed” from Rodrigo’s second album, as well as “Can’t Catch Me Now” from “The Hunger Games: Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” in an interview with Capital Buzz in January 2024.
She explained, “I contribute by adding harmonies that enhance the tonal variety of the songs.” Roan praised Olivia for her collaborative approach with fellow vocalists, noting her generosity.
Roan’s Collaboration and Journey with Olivia Rodrigo
Roan disclosed that she recorded background vocals for the track “Bad Idea Right” on Rodrigo’s album, although they were not ultimately included. In May 2022, Olivia Rodrigo, 21, invited Roan to join her as an opener for the Sour Tour, an opportunity Roan described as a significant honor.
Furthermore, Roan performed at prestigious venues, including headlining at New York’s Bowery Ballroom in August 2022, where she provided backing vocals.
In a November 2023 interview with Triple J Radio, Roan expressed her gratitude to Rodrigo for inviting her to open for her once again. She mentioned how quickly the audience size grew from 200 to 20,000 within two years, starting from her first headline show in May of the previous year.
In a September 2023 interview with PEOPLE magazine, Roan expressed her eagerness to collaborate more with Rodrigo, stating, “I would be thrilled to collaborate.” While they haven’t worked on music together yet, Roan affirmed, “I am open to whatever she suggests.” Rodrigo previously lauded Roan as “an amazing performer,” citing their close friendship and past touring experience.
ALSO READ: ‘Feels Like I Was Right All Along’: Chappell Roan Gets Candid About Her Journey To Fame As Pop Icon On Jimmy Fallon’s Show