"The Subway"

11 August 2025

4 mins 31s

The Subway

When Chappell Roan sings about the one that got away, it feels like you lost them, too. 'The Subway' is painful in the best way possible, as the American turns "she's got a way" into "she's got away" on a sixpence. Her powerslam voice sells the hurt, but also the wry humour of lyrics such as: "Fuck this city, I'm moving to Saskatchewan". DAVID hope she plays there on her next tour.

He also hopes to see more promos like this one courtesy of Amber Grace Johnson, who merges drag, the New York City Subway, and hair inspired by Cousin Itt to beautiful effect. There are shades of Madonna and Lady Gaga to her performance and presence, though Johnson never lets Roan's authenticity get lost in the chaos (no mean feat when a wind machine's involved).

Bloc Party once sang "the city's here for you", but it's a mixed bag in Roan's case. "I saw your green hair, beauty mark next to your mouth/There on the subway, I nearly had a breakdown," she sings, then her own tresses get caught in the door of a yellow cab. Ample use of practical effects and shrewd costume design make this an over-the-top yet oh-so relatable trip.

UK

Promos