"The Giver" is a song by American singer-songwriter Chappell Roan, marking her venture into the country music genre. It was first performed live during her debut appearance as a musical guest on Saturday Night Live (SNL) on November 2, 2024. Written by Roan and produced by Dan Nigro, the song features traditional country instrumentation, including a fiddle, and explores themes of queer storytelling through subversion of conventional country lyrical norms.
| "The Giver" | |
|---|---|
| Song by Chappell Roan | |
| Genre | Country |
"The Giver" has received praise for its innovative take on country music, with critics highlighting its cultural resonance and representation of LGBTQ+ narratives. The song is expected to be officially released following its positive reception on SNL.
Background and composition
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"The Giver" marks a departure for Chappell Roan into the country music genre.[1] Roan cited her Missouri upbringing as a key influence in crafting the song, drawing upon her early exposure to country music, which she described as both nostalgic and playful in its cultural resonance.[1][2] The song incorporates traditional country instrumentation, including a fiddle, while subverting conventional lyrical themes with queer storytelling.[1][2] Roan collaborated with producer Dan Nigro on the writing process, emphasizing a piano-driven approach to establish the song's structure before focusing on production.[2]
The song was first performed live during Roan's appearance on Saturday Night Live (SNL) on November 2, 2024.[3][4] This marked her debut as a musical guest on the program.[4] Ahead of the release, she teased the song during a question and answer session at the Grammy Museum, where she described the writing process as an opportunity to reconnect with her roots.[1][2] Roan hinted at the song and its thematic departure from her earlier work through social media posts, suggesting the beginning of a new era in her career.[3][4] Nigro revealed that preparing the song involved extensive research and a creative exploration of country music tropes, though he refrained from detailing specific influences.[2] The single's official release is anticipated following the positive reception of the live debut.[2]
On SNL, "The Giver" was presented as a brand-new song following her performance of "Pink Pony Club" from her 2023 debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.[4] The live debut featured an elaborate stage setup and her characteristic drag-inspired aesthetic.[3][4]
Critical reception
editCritics responded to "The Giver" with commentary on its impact within the country music landscape.[5] USA Today identified it as part of a growing movement of queer country music, highlighting how it challenges traditional norms in the genre.[5] The song's lyrics and Roan's SNL performance were noted for their assertive and direct address of queer themes, positioning the track among modern LGBTQ+ country anthems.[5][4][1] Critics highlighted Roan's use of humor and assertiveness as distinctive within the genre.[1]
The performance on SNL drew attention for its blend of retro Western visuals and modern thematic content. Commentators have situated "The Giver" within a broader trend of increasing LGBTQ+ representation in country music, likening Roan's efforts to those of artists such as Brandi Carlile and Orville Peck.[1][2]
Live performances
editThe debut of "The Giver" on SNL included a visually distinct performance featuring Roan with an all-female band, dressed in Western-inspired denim and gingham attire.[3][4][2] The performance was characterized by spoken word interjections where Roan addressed the audience directly.[3][4][1] Critics described the performance as vibrant and reflective of her theatrical style.[3][4]
References
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- ^ a b c d e f g h Ahsan, Ali (2024-11-14). "Chappell Roan's "The Giver" Turns Up in Country Music". Groovevolt. Retrieved 2024-11-18.
- ^ a b c d e f g h Cramer, Jude (November 12, 2024). "Here's how Chappell Roan's latest song helped her connect to her roots". INTO. Retrieved 2024-11-18.
- ^ a b c d e f Lutkin, Aimée (2024-11-03). "Chappell Roan's 'The Giver' Lyrics Are a Flirty Invitation". Elle. Retrieved 2024-11-18.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i Peters, Mitchell (2024-11-03). "Chappell Roan Dazzles With New Country Song 'The Giver' During Elaborate 'SNL' Debut". Billboard. Retrieved 2024-11-18.
- ^ a b c Gibbs, Audrey (November 6, 2024). "Chappell Roan defies norms with lesbian country song. More queer country anthems". USA TODAY. Retrieved 2024-11-18.