Chappell Roan’s powerful speech at the 2024 Grammy Awards has sparked a much-needed conversation in the music industry about fair compensation and healthcare for artists. After winning the Best New Artist award, Roan used her platform to challenge record labels to take responsibility for supporting the creators who drive their profits. She called on labels to provide artists with a livable wage and access to healthcare, particularly for those in the early stages of their careers. Her words resonated widely, igniting a debate about the often-exploitative nature of the music industry and inspiring other artists to take action.
Not everyone was supportive of Roan’s message, however. Jeff Rabhan, the former chair of New York University’s Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music, wrote an op-ed for The Hollywood Reporter criticizing her speech. Rabhan dismissed her demands as unrealistic and suggested that Roan should direct her fans to donate to struggling artists instead of challenging the industry. Roan responded by challenging Rabhan to match her $25,000 donation to support rising artists, emphasizing that the burden of supporting créateurs shouldn’t fall on fans. “Fans, y’all don’t have to donate a damn penny,” she wrote on Instagram. “This is one of many opportunities for the industry powers to show up for artists. There is much more work to be done.” Her bold stance has gained traction, and other artists have stepped up to join the movement.
Among those inspired by Roan’s speech were Charli XCX and Noah Kahan, both of whom pledged to match her $25,000 donation. Kahan took to Instagram to express his admiration for Roan’s courage, writing, “I’m inspired by you. Happy to help get the ball rolling. Money where my mouth is!” Charli XCX also announced her support, praising Roan’s speech as “inspiring and thoughtful” and committing to match the donation. Both artists echoed Roan’s call to action, ending their posts with the phrase “Money where my mouth is!”—a line they borrowed from Rabhan’s piece. Their contributions demonstrate a growing solidarity among artists to advocate for fair treatment and resources within the industry.
Roan’s efforts haven’t stopped at donations. She recently announced a new partnership with Backline, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting artists in need. Dubbed “We Got You,” the initiative aims to raise funds and provide vital resources for artists struggling with mental health and wellness. The name is a nod to her Grammy speech, where she addressed record labels directly: “Labels, we got you, but do you got us?” Backline highlighted the importance of Roan’s advocacy, stating, “In a world where mental health care and wellness often takes a backseat, this initiative aims to raise funds and provide vital resources for artists who need access to mental health care.” By turning her words into action, Roan is helping to create a safer, more supportive environment for artists everywhere.
The backlash against Roan’s speech also drew criticism from other artists. Halsey, for instance, came to Roan’s defense, calling Rabhan’s op-ed a “tantrum full of accusations and generalities.” She lambasted The Hollywood Reporter for publishing the piece, writing, “This is so far beneath the standard you should uphold as a publication.” Halsey’s unwavering support for Roan underscores the growing frustration among artists with the industry’s treatment of its most vital contributors. Roan’s speech has not only sparked a conversation but has also galvanized a movement, proving that collective action can lead to tangible change.
Ultimately, Chappell Roan’s Grammy speech has become a rallying cry for artists and advocates alike. By challenging the status quo and holding the industry accountable, she has inspired a wave of support and solidarity. With initiatives like “We Got You” and the backing of fellow artists, Roan is proving that change is possible. Her message is a powerful reminder that the music industry’s success is built on the talents and dedication of its artists—and it’s time for the industry to give back. As Roan so eloquently put it, “Labels, we got you, but do you got us?” The answer, it seems, is finally beginning to take shape.
