Chappell Roan Lights Up Forest Hills
- Joy Metzger
- Sep 25
- 2 min read
Seeing Chappell Roan live is always unforgettable, but catching her on back-to-back New York City nights (September 20 and September 23) at Forest Hills Stadium felt like something bigger—almost like being part of a cultural shift. Both shows were filled with glitter, camp, and powerhouse vocals, but each night carried its own unique energy.
September 20: A Glittering Warm-Up
The first show on September 20 was the perfect introduction to the weekend. From the moment Chappell stepped on stage, the stadium buzzed with excitement. While the crowd wasn’t quite as wild as it would be on the 23rd, the energy was still electric—fans were locked in, ready to celebrate every note.
Her costumes that night set the bar high—playful, dramatic, and unmistakably Chappell. Every outfit added another layer of theatricality, making the show feel like a living, breathing piece of art. And then came the surprise: her cover of “Barracuda.” It was jaw-dropping. The way her voice soared over the guitars made it sound like the song had always belonged to her. It was an insane performance to witness live, and the crowd’s reaction said it all—pure joy and awe.
September 23: Pure Chaos and Joy
If September 20 was dazzling, September 23 was explosive. The second show felt like stepping into another universe—the crowd was absolutely insane. From the front row to the very back, people were screaming lyrics, dancing without holding back, and giving every ounce of their energy to the moment. It was a full-body experience, and Chappell fed right off it.
At one point, she joked, “Well, I guess the rapture didn’t happen… so I’m thankful I can still sing at my show!” It was funny, cheeky, and so perfectly her—reminding everyone that even in a giant stadium, she keeps it personal.
For me, the highlight was finally hearing “Naked In Manhattan” live. It’s been my top-played song of 2024, and singing it in unison with thousands of other fans under the lights was surreal. That moment felt like a dream realized.
And, of course, her costumes on the 23rd were just as stunning as on the 20th. Each look was bold and iconic, adding to the sense that no two shows are ever the same with Chappell.
Final Thoughts
Two nights, two different vibes, and one undeniable truth: Chappell Roan is a generational performer. September 20 dazzled with theatricality and show-stopping surprises, while September 23 overflowed with chaotic, communal energy that you could feel in your bones.
Walking out of Forest Hills after the second show, I couldn’t stop smiling. Between the humor, the costumes, the covers, and finally getting to hear my favorite song live, it was everything I wanted and more. Both nights proved that Chappell isn’t just putting on concerts—she’s building experiences fans will carry with them forever.
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