Chappell Roan Emphasizes Community and Giving While Accepting Harmonizer Award at Resonator Awards
Chappell Roan centered her acceptance speech on community, generosity, and responsibility while receiving the Harmonizer Award at the 2026 Resonator Awards on Tuesday night.
The second annual ceremony took place at Chaplin Studios in Los Angeles and recognized Roan for her cultural impact and advocacy. She accepted the honor from Nancy Wilson of Heart, who praised Roan’s influence and values both onstage and earlier on the red carpet.
Before beginning her remarks, Roan noted that she had shortened her prepared speech significantly. She then spoke candidly about her discomfort with public praise, particularly when framed in moral terms; “I feel very uncomfortable being told that I’m a good person,” Roan said. “I think that has to do with some kind of Christian guilt or something. But it’s different when the people you really look up to believe you’re doing something good.”
Roan went on to explain that her sense of purpose comes from observing others in her life who prioritize mutual aid and advocacy, particularly in support of trans communities and those facing economic hardship.
“I only know what to do because I see other people around me doing good things,” she said. “Listening to trans people who need representation, who need money for healthcare and rent. I think it’s an artist’s and, honestly, anyone with money's responsibility to give it away. I don’t really know what harmony is if it isn’t giving.”
She closed her speech with a broader reflection on uncertainty and solidarity, referencing concerns about the future for marginalized groups. “I don’t really know what’s going to happen to women, or gay people, or people of color, or anyone, really,” she said. “But I think the only thing that truly matters is community, kindness, and sharing what you have.”
Wilson, speaking to reporters earlier in the evening, said Roan’s message resonated strongly in the current cultural climate. “Artists like Chappell Roan are arriving at a moment when their voice is needed more than ever,” she said. “There’s an inclusiveness and ethical clarity in what she represents that feels very important right now.”
The two musicians previously shared the stage last year in New York, when Roan invited Wilson to perform Heart’s “Barracuda” during one of her shows. Roan later described the collaboration as a career highlight in a social media post.
Roan’s awards recognition comes amid continued industry momentum. She is nominated for two honors at the upcoming Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance for her single “The Subway.”
