In one of her now iconic elaborate costumes on stage at the Forest Hills Stadium in New York, Chappell Roan introduced a cover she had been playing during her tour – ‘Barracuda’ by Heart. Describing it as the best rock song by the best rock band, she went on to announce that they had an extra surprise in store for the crowd that night. Nancy Wilson herself would be joining her on stage to perform the song, in a coming together of two iconic musicians that will blow music fans’ minds.
Nancy joined Chappell on stage, playing a bright purple guitar that fit perfectly with Chappell’s theatrical staging. The presence of one of her musical heroes seemed to push Chappell to even greater performance heights, as she strutted across the stage and fell to her knees, all while delivering a pitch-perfect vocal performance. In only two weeks, the video of the performance received 25k views. One fan commented, “I love seeing legends and newer women to the industry killing it together.”
This was what truly struck me about the performance, too, and I felt great joy in seeing a pop star who has taken the industry by storm in recent years connect on stage with one of her biggest influences. Not only have these two artists made waves with their musical talent, but they have also stood as empowering icons to their female fans. To me, this felt like a moment to appreciate the way artists like Chappell are continuing the powerful legacy of the women in music who came before them.
This is not the first time Chappell has appeared on stage with another iconic musician. She has stood as a figure of empowerment not only for women in general but especially for lesbians, thanks to proudly celebrating her own identity. She joined forces with another LGBTQ+ icon when she joined Elton John at the 2025 Oscars After Party to perform ‘Pink Pony Club,’ with Elton embracing Chappell’s specific style of theatricality by donning one of her iconic glittery pink cowboy hats.
While Chappell has solidified herself as a pop star beloved by Gen Z, it will be clear to all Music Man fans who watch her collaborations with influential artists that she is more than happy to recognize those who paved the way. Not only is Chappell carving out her own place in the modern music industry, but she’s also carrying on the legacy of those who broke down barriers before her.