Grammy-nominated producer Dan Nigro has been pivotal in shaping the careers of pop sensations Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan. His work on their acclaimed albums—Sour (2021), Guts (2023), and The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess (2023)—showcases his ability to capture the spirit of contemporary pop.
Rodrigo, a leading voice in the pop-punk resurgence, and Roan, known for highlighting queer experiences through ’80s-inspired pop, both benefit from Nigro’s expertise. A former guitarist for the indie band As Tall As Lions, Nigro embraces the evolution of music trends, including the return of guitar solos, even when it challenges his personal instincts.
“Guitar solos sometimes feel dated to me because I associate them with bands like Metallica from the ’80s,” Nigro shared in an interview with Rolling Stone’s Brian Hiatt. “But working with younger artists like Olivia and Chappell gives me fresh, current perspectives. I’m constantly learning from their modern reference points.”
Guitar solos feature prominently in Nigro’s productions, such as the octave fuzz-driven solo in Rodrigo’s bad idea right? and the ’80s-inspired lead in Roan’s sleeper hit, Pink Pony Club.
Reflecting on the creative process behind Pink Pony Club, Nigro revealed, “Early versions of the song were just the two of us exploring ideas. When I worked on the production and sent her drafts, Roan specifically asked for a guitar solo after the bridge. At first, there was no solo—just a synth part—but she insisted the song needed one.”
Roan’s input led to a collaborative effort between Nigro and guitarist Sam Stewart (of the band Lo Moon), resulting in the melodic solo now integral to the track. “We refined it through several passes until it felt right,” Nigro explained. “The second version nailed the melodic vibe she wanted, and she loved it.”
The use of guitar solos has become a defining feature in Roan’s music, even as Nigro continues to balance his instincts with the demands of today’s pop sound.
Meanwhile, Chappell Roan’s guitarist, Devon Eisenbarger, shared a unique behind-the-scenes story. Eisenbarger received the call to join Roan’s band while performing with Katy Perry in Italy, showcasing the dynamic collaborations that define the modern music scene.
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