Pop Star Chappell Reflects on Outspokenness and Career Choices
The 26-year-old singer behind hits like "Pink Pony Club" has shared how her outspoken nature has impacted her career trajectory, claiming she would be "further along" if she were less vocal.
In a recent interview with BBC Radio 1, Chappell reflected on a notable incident at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, where she called out a photographer for yelling at celebrities on the red carpet.
"I was looking around and thinking, 'This is what people are OK with all the time? And I'm supposed to act normal? This is not normal. This is crazy,'" she recounted.
The moment earned her criticism and the label of a "spoiled diva," but the pop star is unapologetic about standing her ground. "I've been responding that way to disrespect my whole life," Chappell explained. "But now there are cameras on me, and I also happen to be a pop star, and those things don't match."
Pushing Back Against Industry Norms
Chappell also opened up about the pressures musicians face to conform and stay silent. She noted that speaking up for herself and setting boundaries can often be perceived as ungrateful.
"I think, actually, I'd be more successful if I was OK wearing a muzzle," she said with a laugh. "If I overrode more of my instincts—where my heart is going, 'Stop, stop, stop, you're not OK'—I’d be bigger. I would still be on tour right now."
Last year, the singer faced backlash for choosing not to extend her 2024 tour to prioritize her mental health. Reflecting on the decision, she credited her grandfather for shaping her perspective on opportunities.
"He always said something that I think about with every move I make in my career: ‘There are always options,’" she shared. "So when someone says, ‘Do this concert because you’ll never get offered that much money ever again,’ it’s like, who cares? If I don’t feel like doing this right now, there are always options. There’s not a scarcity of opportunity."
Setting Boundaries with Fans
Chappell has also been open about creating healthy boundaries with fans. Though it’s an unusual stance in the music industry, she stands firm in prioritizing her well-being.
"I would be way bigger," she concluded, "but I wouldn't be true to myself—and that's more important to me than anything else."
The pop star continues to balance her career with authenticity, even if it comes at the cost of rapid success.
