Chappell Roan Claps Back at Former Music Executive Jeff Rabhan After GRAMMYs Speech on Livable Wages for Artists

At the 67th Annual GRAMMY Awards on February 2, 2025, breakout pop artist Chappell Roan took home the prestigious Best New Artist award. But beyond celebrating her success, Roan used her moment in the spotlight to advocate for artists struggling in the music industry.

In a passionate acceptance speech, Roan called out record labels for failing to provide livable wages and essential support such as healthcare. She spoke candidly about her own experiences, recalling how she was dropped from a label during the pandemic and left to navigate financial instability on her own.

“Labels, we got you,” she declared on stage. “But do you got us?”

Her words resonated with many up-and-coming artists who face similar struggles. However, not everyone was on board with her message—especially former music executive Jeff Rabhan.

Former Music Exec Jeff Rabhan Criticizes Roan’s Stance

Shortly after the GRAMMYs, Jeff Rabhan, a longtime industry veteran and former manager for stars like Kelly Clarkson and Lindsay Lohan, wrote a scathing op-ed in The Hollywood Reporter.

Rabhan dismissed Roan’s speech as “hackneyed and plagiarized,” suggesting she was ungrateful to the very industry that had helped her rise to fame. He argued that artists need to understand the business realities of the music world rather than expect financial support.

“She takes aim at the very machine that got her there,” Rabhan wrote, questioning whether Roan truly grasped the complexities of the industry.

His comments sparked heated reactions online, with many fans and fellow artists coming to Roan’s defense. But it was Roan herself who delivered the most cutting response.

Chappell Roan Responds: “Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is”

Roan took to Instagram to fire back at Rabhan, calling out the irony in his critique. In a pointed response, she directly challenged him to back up his words with action.

“Wanna match me $25k to donate to struggling dropped artists?” she wrote. “I love how in the article you said ‘put your money where your mouth is.’ Genius!!! Let’s link and build together and see if you can do the same.”

Her response not only shut down Rabhan’s criticism but also turned the conversation into a call for tangible support for struggling artists. By pledging $25,000 of her own money and inviting Rabhan to do the same, Roan shifted the focus from debate to action.

Supporting Smaller Artists and the Future of the Industry

Beyond her direct response to Rabhan, Roan used the moment to shine a light on smaller, independent artists who face significant financial challenges in the music industry.

On social media, she encouraged fans to support lesser-known musicians, sharing playlists and highlighting artists who lack major label backing.

Her bold stance has reignited conversations about fair pay in the music industry, with many praising her willingness to speak out despite being a rising star herself.

A Turning Point in the Music Industry?

Roan’s GRAMMYs moment, and the controversy that followed, highlights a growing frustration among artists about financial insecurity in the industry. While major labels continue to profit, many musicians struggle to make ends meet, especially those without major label deals or viral success.

Her challenge to Rabhan—whether he accepts it or not—has sparked a wider discussion about accountability in the industry. Should record labels take on more responsibility for the financial well-being of their artists? And should industry executives like Rabhan step up and directly support the struggling musicians they once worked with?

One thing is clear: Chappell Roan isn’t afraid to use her platform to fight for change. And as she continues her rise in the music world, she’s making sure other artists don’t get left behind.