Chappell Roan made a striking debut of her new single "The Giver" on "Saturday Night Live" this November. The song encapsulates Roan's Midwestern roots and explores her experiences as a queer woman through the lens of country music. Roan drew inspiration from a myriad of sources, including Shania Twain's iconic anthem "I Feel Like a Woman!" and the works of Mark Twain. The song also pays homage to classic country stars such as Miranda Lambert, Alan Jackson, and George Strait.
Roan's upbringing in the Midwest greatly influenced "The Giver," a track that uniquely blends lesbian innuendos, banjos, and a catchy fiddle melody. The song's campaign was notably inspired by the lyric "She gets the job done," reflecting Roan's personal journey and the song's thematic depth. In a bold move to promote the single, Roan erected a billboard in Springfield, Missouri. The billboard humorously reads, "Dental dams aren’t just for dentists!" and features Roan in scrubs, highlighting her playful approach.
“Ain’t no country boy quitter / I get the job done” – Roan
Roan's decision to write a country song was driven by her desire to process complex personal experiences. She explored themes of self-identity and societal expectations, particularly reflecting on her struggles with self-acceptance as a teenager. Roan candidly expressed the difficulties she faced growing up gay at fifteen and the pressure to conform to traditional female roles.
“I can, like, hate myself for being gay at 15 and be like, ‘I’m a woman, I’m supposed to just be there for my husband, and I’m going to learn how to cook and blah blah blah.’ I can do that, move to L.A., have a revelation and write a country song to kind of wrap it all up,” – Roan
Roan also highlighted the significant role LGBTQ individuals play in the country music scene, both as fans and performers. She emphasized that while country music is often seen as traditional, it is also "so incredibly camp," providing space for diverse expressions.
“There are a lot of gay country fans, a lot of drag queen country fans,” – Roan
Inspiration for "The Giver" was multifaceted, rooted in Roan's personal history and broader cultural influences. She sought to create a piece that not only encapsulates her journey but also shines a light on the contributions of LGBTQ individuals to the genre.
“Yes, I’m gay, and yes I am ultra pop. Yes, I am a drag queen … who can also perform a country song,’” – Roan