After much anticipation, Chappell Roan has finally dropped her latest single, “The Giver.” This track marks Roan’s first foray into the country genre and serves as her first official release since the wildly successful one-off single, “Good Luck, Babe!”
Roan initially debuted “The Giver” in a live performance on “Saturday Night Live” in November 2024. Fans eagerly expected an imminent release following the performance, but the singer took a more drawn-out approach, teasing the official version over several months. She stirred up excitement through cryptic billboards scattered across the country and even launched a hotline where fans could hear snippets of the song.
In a press release, Roan shared her deep-rooted connection to country music, saying, “I have such a special place in my heart for country music. I grew up listening to it every morning and afternoon on my school bus and had it swirling around me at bonfires, grocery stores, and karaoke bars. Many people have asked if this means I’m making a country album??? My answer is… right now I’m just making songs that make me feel happy and fun. And ‘The Giver’ is my take on country xoxo. May the classic country divas lead their genre; I am just here to twirl and do a little gay yodel for y’all.”
The song kicks off with a lively fiddle, embracing traditional country instrumentation while keeping a playful energy that aligns with Roan’s signature style. It’s an ambitious move for the rising pop star, who was previously known for her 80s-inspired pop sound.
However, while “The Giver” brings a fresh sound compared to her previous pop anthems, the melody itself may not be as immediately catchy as some had hoped. The mixing felt a little flat and lack of depth, making the song’s impact less dynamic than expected. As a longtime fan of country music, the track comes across as fun but slightly hokey, resembling a more watered-down version of modern pop-country.
Despite mixed reactions to the song’s execution, Roan’s willingness to experiment with country elements tells us she is bold and willing to explore in her music. Whether this marks the beginning of a deeper exploration into the genre or simply a playful detour, we can’t wait to see where her musical journey takes her next.
Rating: 6/10