Interest in Saskatchewan, a lesser-known Canadian province, has surged following pop star Chappell Roan’s mention of it in her soon-to-be-released song, “The Subway.” The track, which Roan has performed live but hasn’t officially released, details her feelings about a breakup while traveling on the New York City subway. In a poignant line, she reflects that if she hasn’t moved on in four months, she might move to Saskatchewan. On July 24, an Instagram account dedicated to Roan shared an audio clip of what seems to be a studio version of the song, featuring a moving truck with the license plate “THE SBWY” entering Saskatchewan. As excitement builds, posters promoting Roan around New York City have included quirky phrases that hint at her new music, further igniting speculation about the song’s release date.
Since Roan began performing “The Subway,” there has been a notable uptick in interest in Saskatchewan. Google searches for the province spiked on July 20, doubling compared to the same time last year. Comments on social media reflect this enthusiasm, as fans express gratitude for Roan’s shoutout to Saskatchewan. Some fans have demanded that her first tour stop be in Regina, the province’s capital, and humorously suggested that the song could serve as a new provincial anthem. The growing excitement speaks to the warm reception the province has received and highlights the positive sentiment surrounding Roan’s release.
Saskatchewan is characterized by its expansive prairies and boreal forests, making it an appealing destination. The Saskatchewan government promotes lower housing costs compared to many major Canadian cities, along with free medical care and public education. For outdoor enthusiasts, the province offers a wealth of recreational opportunities year-round, enhancing its desirability as a place to live. In a recent interview, Roan acknowledged the growing interest in her song and her commitment to performing in Saskatchewan, stating, “I can’t sing a song about Saskatchewan and not go there.” This sentiment showcases her desire to create a personal connection to the place she has sung about.
With Roan’s rising popularity, more individuals are considering Saskatchewan as a potential destination. One woman, who transitioned from Ontario to Saskatchewan, shared her positive experiences after moving there with her husband, who was stationed with the military. She praised the slower pace of life and the friendly communities, stating that her experience had been incredibly positive. Her enthusiastic commentary painted Saskatchewan as an inviting province, especially for those seeking a change from busier urban environments. This grassroots enthusiasm indicates a potential shift in perception about the province, especially considering how Roan has captured the public’s attention.
Social media discussions have also been abuzz with mentions of Roan’s song and its impact on the perception of Saskatchewan. Conversations on platforms like Reddit highlight how far-reaching the song’s influence may be. Users have noted feeling proud to hear others recognize Saskatchewan through Roan’s song, even when they travel internationally. The notion that a mainstream song could encourage people to consider moving to Saskatchewan serves as a testament to the song’s power and Roan’s influence as an artist. This shift in mindset underscores how popular culture can reshape the narrative around a place, instilling a sense of pride in its residents.
Celebrities, including musician Rebecca Black, have engaged with Roan’s emerging track, further amplifying its reach. Black shared her excitement through a video of herself enjoying the newly released audio clip while located in Saskatchewan. Roan’s potential visit could be a highlight for the province, encouraging tourism and fostering community pride. The attention from a pop star has sparked curious interest in an area that many might previously have overlooked, showcasing the unique intersection of music and tourism and the possible economic benefits for Saskatchewan moving forward.
