Chappell Roan's 'The Subway' Lyrics Reveal Heartbreak

The pop star's Grammy-nominated song is a melancholy reflection on a past relationship.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 9:07pm

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Chappell Roan's hit song "The Subway" is nominated for two 2026 Grammys, including Record of the Year. The lyrics, which describe a woman reminiscing about a past love, were inspired by Roan's own experience of trying to move on from a relationship. The song features references to the singer seeing her ex's green hair on the subway and smelling her perfume at a party, as well as a mention of moving to Saskatchewan to get away from the memories.

Why it matters

"The Subway" resonates with many listeners who have gone through the pain of a breakup and the lingering feelings that can come with it. Roan's vulnerability in sharing her personal story through the song's lyrics has struck a chord, making it a standout track in the pop music landscape.

The details

Roan first teased "The Subway" at a 2024 music festival, where she performed dressed as a New York taxi with green skin to represent the Statue of Liberty. She then spent over a year perfecting the song's musical and visual elements before officially releasing it in July 2025. The lyrics describe the narrator's attempts to move on, including a promise to move to Saskatchewan if she can't get over her ex. The song also features a repeated refrain of "she's got a way" that shifts to "she got away", symbolizing the narrator's changing perspective.

  • Roan first teased "The Subway" at the 2024 Governors Ball music festival.
  • Roan released the official recorded version of "The Subway" in July 2025.
  • "The Subway" is nominated for two 2026 Grammy Awards.

The players

Chappell Roan

An American pop singer-songwriter whose song "The Subway" is nominated for two 2026 Grammy Awards.

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What they’re saying

“Thank you for sticking it out for a whole year. It was worth it to make sure everything was absolutely right.”

— Chappell Roan (Instagram)

“It was actually about me hiding in Los Angeles from someone I was deeply in love with, but we weren't on bad terms. Like it was just trying to avoid the coffee shops we went to and parties.”

— Chappell Roan (Apple Music)

“We needed something 'on,' I've never been there, but I promise I will perform there one day. I also just love that the capital is called Regina.”

— Chappell Roan (Apple Music)

What’s next

Roan is expected to perform "The Subway" at the 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony, where the song is nominated for Record of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance.

The takeaway

"The Subway" showcases Chappell Roan's vulnerability and songwriting prowess, resonating with listeners who have experienced the lingering pain of a past relationship. The song's Grammy nominations further cement Roan's status as a rising star in the pop music industry.