Triple J Hottest 100: Roan's Triumph - A Wild Ride!
Okay, so, the Triple J Hottest 100. You know, the thing. The annual Aussie music showdown where everyone gets super hyped, debates endlessly, and maybe sheds a few tears (I definitely did). This year was extra special for me, though, because my absolute fave, Roan, totally smashed it. It was wild. Seriously, a rollercoaster of emotions.
From Obscure Genius to Chart-Topping Star
I first heard Roan, like, three years ago. Some random YouTube rabbit hole, I think. I was immediately hooked. Their sound is… well, it's them. Unique. This blend of ethereal vocals, crunchy guitars, and beats that just hit. I’m still not sure how to describe it exactly; it’s like nothing I’d ever heard before. I immediately started telling everyone I knew about them. "You HAVE to listen to this," I'd say, shoving my phone in their faces. Most people just kinda shrugged, which was, like, so frustrating.
My friends were way more into the usual pop stuff – you know, whatever was dominating the radio. I tried, I really did, to get them to appreciate Roan’s genius. It wasn’t easy.
But slowly, things changed. Roan started getting airplay on smaller stations. Then bigger ones. Their fanbase grew, organically. It wasn't some overnight manufactured pop star thing; it was a genuine grassroots movement. You could feel it.
The Anxiety of the Countdown
Then came the Hottest 100 countdown day. I’d prepped the snacks, the drinks… the tissues. I was a nervous wreck. Seriously. I spent the whole day refreshing Triple J's website – probably more than is healthy. My heart was hammering; I felt sick with excitement and dread. What if my favorite song didn't even crack the top 100? The thought was genuinely painful.
The Climb to the Top
The countdown itself was intense, a blur of familiar and unfamiliar tracks. Hours passed like minutes; each number felt like an eternity. My anxiety was through the roof! Then, finally, the announcement: Roan at number 3!
I screamed. I cried. I probably woke the neighbors. It was total, unadulterated joy. All those late nights listening to their music, all those awkward attempts to convince my friends to listen… it all felt worth it. That moment, that feeling of shared collective happiness with thousands of other fans… pure magic. You know the feeling, right?
Tips for Supporting Your Favorite Artists
So, what did I learn from this whole epic experience? A few things, actually:
- Be an active fan: Streaming, buying merch, going to shows—it all matters. It helps artists get noticed.
- Spread the word: Tell your friends, share on social media. Word-of-mouth is incredibly powerful.
- Don't be discouraged: Building a fanbase takes time. Genuine talent always wins in the end, even if it takes a while.
- Support independent artists: This is incredibly important. Without our help, they can't reach their full potential.
This year's Hottest 100 was a testament to the power of community and the dedication of passionate fans. Roan’s success wasn't just their success; it was our success. It was a win for all of us who believe in the magic of music, and the importance of supporting the artists we love. It was a beautiful, emotional, and totally unforgettable experience. And let's be honest, I'm already looking forward to next year. Bring on the snacks, tissues, and more incredible music!