In her latest single, “Good Luck, Babe!” Midwest Princess Chappell Roan has crafted what can only be described as the ultimate gay pop anthem (sorry, JoJo).
The song kicks off with an irresistible 80’s-inspired vibe, immediately drawing listeners in with its pulsating synths and a soft violin, setting the stage for what’s to come. As Roan sings the opening lines, “It’s fine, it’s cool, You can say that we are nothing, but you know the truth,” there’s an undeniable allure to her vocals, blending vulnerability with self-assurance. Whether you have your arms stretched out like an angel through a car sunroof too, there is no denying the fact that this song is one you can’t help but scream, cry, and dance to.
As the song builds up towards its chorus, Roan showcases the full extent of her vocal strength, effortlessly navigating through a range that captivates the listener. Roan skillfully weaves a narrative of falling in love with someone who is in denial of their sexuality, pulling the listener through an emotional journey of frustration, heartache, and empowerment. The repetition of “You can kiss a hundred boys in bars, Shoot another shot, try to stop the feeling,” underscores the internal conflict and turmoil of unrequited love, while the defiant refrain of “well, good luck, babe,” serves as a powerful anthem of comtempt.
Contrasting with the beautiful falsetto in the chorus, her voice takes on a haunting quality, infusing the song with a sense of longing and vulnerability. If nothing so far has convinced you to listen to this song, then let the bridge be it. With lyrics that teeter between acceptance and defiance, Roan captures the complexities of modern queer romance, inviting listeners to delve deeper into the narrative of love and longing. As she sings, “Ooh, and when you wake up next to him in the middle of the night, With your head in your hands, you’re nothing more than his wife,” listeners are drawn into a world of raw yet upbeat emotion.
Through her mesmerizing voice, Roan proves herself as both a masterful lyricist and a captivating performer, solidifying “Good Luck, Babe!” as a song worth listening to on repeat for its sheer beauty, high energy, and depth (just hope no one dedicates it to you).