Chappell Roan's Unassuming Visit to Melbourne's Cherry Bar Highlights Her Down-to-Earth Persona
In the lead-up to her headline performance at Melbourne's Laneway Festival on February 13, 2026, American pop sensation Chappell Roan made an unannounced visit to the iconic Cherry Bar on February 11. The intimate venue, known for its rich rock 'n' roll history, hosted Roan and her crew for over two hours on a notably quiet evening. (au.rollingstone.com)
James Young, owner and booker of Cherry Bar, recounted the evening, noting that only about 17 patrons were present during Roan's visit. He highlighted her modesty and approachability, stating, "She drank a couple of mocktails and was very modest, polite and lovely." Young emphasized that Roan chose to stand at the main bar downstairs, rather than retreating to the venue's VIP area, underscoring her desire to engage with the local scene. (au.rollingstone.com)
Roan's presence at Cherry Bar underscores her appreciation for grassroots music venues and her commitment to connecting with fans beyond the grand stages. Her visit also sheds light on the challenges faced by Melbourne's nightlife, with Young expressing gratitude to the Laneway Festival for bringing international artists to the city and stimulating the local hospitality scene. (au.rollingstone.com)
As Roan continues her tour, her spontaneous visit to Cherry Bar serves as a testament to her genuine character and the enduring allure of Melbourne's live music venues.