A year after making waves with her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, Chappell Roan has cemented her place as one of pop music’s brightest stars. Roan is now up for six Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year for her fan-favorite anthem, “Good Luck, Babe!” This week, Elton John tapped the 26-year-old sensation to headline his legendary AIDS Foundation Oscars Watch Party.
This annual soirée, which will be held on Sunday, March 2, in Los Angeles, coincides with the 97th Academy Awards. Elton’s event brings glamour and generosity together to support vital AIDS research.
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“David and I are thrilled to gather with friends and supporters once again,” Elton said in a statement. “And we’re honored to welcome the bold and authentic Chappell Roan as this year’s performer, whose artistry embodies the power of music to inspire change.”
Roan, who has formed a close bond with the musical legend, credits him as a mentor during her whirlwind journey to stardom. The two regularly FaceTime, and Elton has offered advice on how to navigate fame and the music industry.
“I just try and calm her down and say, ‘Listen, it’s fine. It’s fine. Do what you want. Don’t listen to anybody. Walk at your own speed,’” he told The Ankler in December. “Do not listen to the record company saying, ‘We want another album, we want another album.’ Do it when you’re ready to do it.”
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In a statement to Them, Roan said she was “absolutely glowing” to headline the event, and referred to Elton and his husband, David Furnish, as “incredible guiding lights.”
“I’m deeply passionate about supporting the queer community in every way I can, and I’m so proud to be part of an organization that fights for equality and provides lifesaving access to care for queer communities,” Roan said. “I can’t wait to bring an unabashedly gay performance to such an iconic night!”
Last year’s gala broke records, raising $10.8 million for the cause. This year, organizers are aiming to raise even more.
