The Subway

Chappell Roan brought "The Subway" to life in the studio after letting it simmer through live shows where fans already knew every word. Released on July 31, 2025, via Amusement and Island Records, the track captures the specific ache of a breakup while riding the chaotic energy of New York City. Dan Nigro handled all production duties alongside Roan, crafting a soundscape that blends pop hooks with the shimmering layers of dream pop and the jagged edges of shoegaze. The song runs for four minutes and twelve seconds, offering a sonic journey that feels both polished and raw.

Lyrically, the narrative zooms in on intimate details like a lover's green hair and a beauty mark near their mouth against the backdrop of a subway ride. The narrator nearly loses control during the commute, turning a mundane transit experience into a moment of emotional crisis. NPR highlighted how the production balances these personal struggles with the unique hardships of city life, calling the result beautiful yet heartbreaking.

The visual companion arrived shortly after the audio release, directed by Becky Garner and shot entirely in New York City. Fans can find the official video on YouTube under the ID woLfAvD5iXI, where the visuals mirror the song's turbulent emotions. Commercially, the single made an immediate impact, debuting at number three on the US Billboard Hot 100 before climbing to number one on the UK Singles Chart. This success marked a major step forward for Roan, who has been refining her sound since her earlier work like Casual. [edit]