Pop music sensation Chappell Roan performed for nearly 40,000 fans at Brookside at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on Friday night. The event, part of her "Visions of Damsels and Other Dangerous Things" series, transformed the golf course into a festival-like experience, highlighting her rapid rise in the music industry.
Key Takeaways
- Chappell Roan performed for approximately 40,000 fans in Pasadena.
- The event at Brookside at the Rose Bowl featured a fairy tale theme.
- Pre-show activities included a DJ set by Trixie Mattel and other drag queen performances.
- Roan's setlist included nearly all tracks from her album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.
- She delivered an emotional speech about her connection to Los Angeles.
Massive Turnout for Pop Star's Pasadena Show
Chappell Roan, 27, expressed her deep affection for Los Angeles throughout the evening. The significant attendance at the Pasadena concert underscored her growing popularity. The venue, typically used for large-scale events, proved suitable for the multi-hour performance.
The concert was more than a standard show. It offered a comprehensive experience, resembling a festival dedicated to the artist. This format allowed for extensive fan engagement before Roan took the stage.
Concert Attendance
Chappell Roan estimated the crowd size at nearly 40,000 people. This marks a substantial increase from her previous Los Angeles headline show in November 2023, which had an estimated capacity of 2,500 attendees.
Pre-Show Entertainment and Thematic Dressing
Before the main performance, fans enjoyed various activities. These included multiple photo opportunities and a selection of food trucks. Live music was also part of the pre-show entertainment.
RuPaul’s Drag Race alumna Trixie Mattel opened the night with a DJ set. Other drag queens also performed, a tradition Roan incorporates into all her headlining shows. This element contributed to the festive atmosphere.
The concert grounds were filled with fans embracing the night's theme. Many dressed as mermaids, a theme chosen by Roan herself. Others wore outfits inspired by her hit song "Pink Pony Club" or merchandise featuring the artist.
Artist's Growing Influence
Chappell Roan's career has seen a rapid ascent in the past two years. Her ability to draw such a large crowd in a major city like Los Angeles reflects her increasing impact on popular culture. Her unique style and engaging performances have resonated with a diverse audience.
A Diverse Audience and Engaging Performance
The audience at Brookside at the Rose Bowl was diverse. Families with young children were present, playing on blankets across the grounds. Gen Z and millennial fans, alongside older attendees, also made up the crowd. The general admission setup allowed attendees to relax and spread out until Roan's performance began after 9 p.m.
Roan made her entrance after a retro cartoon introduction. She wore a sparkly olive green costume, complemented by a bedazzled trident. She moved across a castle-like stage, performing her B-side track, "Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl."
"I see you, and I’m going to send medic to help you," Roan told a fan during her performance, demonstrating her attentiveness to the audience.
Setlist Highlights and Audience Interaction
The 18-track setlist included almost all of her 2023 breakout album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess. She also performed newer songs such as "The Subway," "The Giver," and "Good Luck, Babe!" A cover of Heart’s "Barracuda" was also featured.
Roan maintained a playful interaction with the crowd. She pointed out a fan who appeared to be rolling their eyes and later joked with a father in the audience for not learning her "HOT TO GO" dance. She noted his nice appearance and decided to leave him alone.
During her song "The Giver," a sapphic country anthem, Roan directly addressed audience members. She playfully asked, "Are you tired boys because this is a lesbian song?" between lines, which drew cheers from the crowd.
Album Success
Chappell Roan's album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, was released in 2023. Her single "Pink Pony Club," originally released in 2020, entered the Billboard Hot 100 four years later, peaking at No. 4 earlier this year.
Emotional Connection to Los Angeles
Towards the end of the show, Roan delivered an emotional speech from a throne on stage. She spoke about her deep connection to Los Angeles.
"L.A.’s my favorite city in the world. It’s the best place in the world," she stated to the cheering crowd.
Roan explained that she has lived in the city for nine years. The first five years were a struggle, she noted. She expressed appreciation for the city, mentioning her past residence in Altadena, a nearby area.
The singer shared that her love for L.A. grew stronger after witnessing the community unite to assist Altadena and the Pacific Palisades during deadly wildfires earlier this year. She emphasized her gratitude for living and performing in the city.
"This city has taken care of me, and it’s only my duty to take care of it back," she added. Overcome with emotion, Roan paused before stating, "I don’t know, fuck ICE, forever," which received a strong reaction from the audience. She repeated the sentiment.
Nervousness and Grand Finale
Roan then admitted to feeling nervous, particularly when performing in front of an L.A. crowd. She cited the presence of music industry professionals as a reason for her apprehension. She encouraged the audience to enjoy the show as if they were children again before continuing with her set.
The concert concluded with Roan’s hit single, "Pink Pony Club." The song, initially released in 2020, gained significant traction last year. It entered the Billboard Hot 100 and peaked at number 4 earlier in the year.
"This is for you L.A.," Roan told the crowd, who sang along to every word. The moment provided a heartwarming and joyful end to a night that showcased the pop star's peak performance.