For musicians, the path to success is rarely smooth. Many juggle multiple jobs just to keep the lights on while chasing their dreams. If they’re lucky enough to land a record deal, life takes a drastic turn. Either things move at a snail’s pace—leaving them without a steady income or a job that provides benefits—or they get thrown into a whirlwind of fame, decision-making, and relentless schedules. In every scenario, one critical question looms: Who takes care of an artist’s physical and mental well-being?
Chappell Roan’s Call for Change at the GRAMMYs
Last week at the GRAMMY Awards, Best New Artist winner Chappell Roan used her acceptance speech to call out record labels for profiting off their artists while failing to provide them with basic healthcare benefits. Her words resonated deeply with the industry, where many musicians struggle to afford insurance due to the nature of their careers. Unlike label executives and staff, artists typically aren’t included in company health plans, leaving them to fend for themselves in a system that’s often prohibitively expensive.
Roan’s speech quickly gained traction, drawing both support and criticism. A former A&R executive attempted to dismiss her argument, questioning her understanding of the issue. But instead of backing down, Roan responded in the best way possible—by taking action.
Putting Money Where Their Mouths Are: Backline’s We Got You! Campaign
In direct response to the GRAMMYs conversation, non-profit organization Backline has launched the We Got You! Campaign, a movement dedicated to providing mental health support for artists across the music industry. With an initial $25,000 donation from Roan herself—followed by matching contributions from fellow artists Noah Kahan and Charli XCX—the campaign has already gained massive momentum.
Backline, a 501(c)(3) non-profit founded in 2019, has long been a lifeline for music industry professionals, touring crews, venue staff, and their families. Their work focuses on mental health advocacy, case management, and connecting individuals with financial aid and treatment options tailored specifically to the demands of the music business. Since its inception, Backline has created over 1,800 custom care plans, helping thousands of industry professionals access critical wellness services.
Why This Matters: The Cost of Being an Artist
The harsh reality is that most musicians don’t have access to employer-sponsored health insurance. While some third-party programs exist, they come with sky-high premiums that make coverage unattainable for many artists. The industry’s dependence on contract work, touring, and inconsistent revenue streams means that even well-known artists can struggle with healthcare access.
“The We Got You! campaign is a powerful step in prioritizing mental health and well-being of those who make the music we all love,” said Backline Community Manager Terra Lopez. “Thank you to Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, and Noah Kahan for your advocacy and action to create a more supportive industry—together, we are showing artists they are seen, heard, and cared for.”
Will Record Labels Finally Listen?
With the conversation now at the forefront of the industry, record labels are under growing pressure to reassess their approach to artist welfare. While streaming services and record sales generate billions, many of the artists fueling this success still lack fundamental benefits like health insurance.
Backline’s campaign provides an interim solution, but Roan’s speech has sparked a conversation that won’t be going away anytime soon. The ball is now in the labels’ court—will they finally step up and take responsibility for the well-being of the artists who make their business possible?
For now, Backline and the We Got You! initiative are filling a much-needed gap, proving that real change often starts with those willing to take action.