Greyson Chance Felt ‘Broken’ After a Health Crisis and Breakup. How He Realized ‘I Need to Prioritize Myself’ (Exclusive)

Greyson Chance Unveils Personal Journey in New Album ‘BOYSTOWN’

Greyson Chance, the 29-year-old singer-songwriter, recently launched his fifth studio album, ‘BOYSTOWN,’ a deeply personal project that reflects his tumultuous experiences over the past year. Describing it as “the most queer record I’ve ever done,” Chance candidly reveals the hurdles he faced while creating this body of work, which is now available to his fans.

Throughout his career, which began when he shot to fame with a viral cover of Lady Gaga’s “Paparazzi,” Chance’s path has been anything but straightforward. He acknowledges that navigating the music industry has been challenging, especially following a setback with his previous label, owned by talk show host Ellen DeGeneres. Despite these obstacles, he felt compelled to take control over his artistic direction for the first time, funding and producing ‘BOYSTOWN’ independently. “It feels, to be honest with you, scary,” Chance shared during an interview, reflecting on his newfound freedom. “I feel like now I’m jumping off the plane without a parachute.”

After his last album, ‘Portraits,’ was released in 2022, Chance embarked on a world tour. However, the search for a new record label proved futile, prompting him to reassess his situation. “There’s nothing new and shiny about me anymore,” he admitted, conveying the sense of desperation he encountered while seeking new opportunities in the industry. This led him to a pivotal decision: rather than waiting for change, he would take matters into his own hands.

In February of last year, Chance faced a significant health crisis when he was hospitalised due to a lung collapse. During his recovery, he experienced various complications, including pneumonia in both lungs, which he described as the most terrifying moment of his life. “I think it needed to happen,” he reflected, recognising the valuable perspective it provided. His time in the hospital forced him to confront the physical toll of his lifestyle choices over the years, as he admitted to battling an eating disorder and the negative impact of alcohol and drug use.

As he began the process of healing, Chance realised the importance of prioritising his health both physically and mentally. “I need to prioritise myself first because I haven’t really done that throughout my career,” he noted. This introspection played a significant role in shaping the music on ‘BOYSTOWN,’ leading him to share with fans his commitment to creating music freely and authentically.

Simultaneously, Chance faced personal turmoil as he ended a three-and-a-half-year relationship earlier this year. The breakup coincided with his creative resurgence, allowing him to channel his emotions into his music. He set a 21-day deadline for himself to complete the album, which he describes as a cathartic process of self-discovery. “You’re sad right now. You’re broken. Let this put you back together,” he told himself as he began writing.

The album consists of three acts: rage, reality, and detachment, encapsulating the nuances of his experiences during this challenging period. Chance spoke candidly about the relationship’s end, highlighting a disagreement over the desire to open their partnership. “I want queer people to know that they have a right to know what they want,” he asserted, expressing that it is completely valid to prefer monogamy.

Regarding his past relationship, Chance stated that he no longer maintains contact with his ex and expressed indifference regarding whether his former partner would listen to the album. “If he doesn’t like it, that’s his own problem,” he remarked, reinforcing the concept that actions lead to consequences.

Currently single, Chance is open to new relationships in the future, embracing the belief that love is worth pursuing. The album concludes with the acknowledgement that heartbreak is part of the human experience, and he is ready to confront it again when the time comes. “With breakups, at least for me, I’m so mad at the beginning because I’m a hothead,” he noted.

Reflecting on the visuals accompanying ‘BOYSTOWN,’ Chance expressed how they resonated with his journey and personal identity. He visited an indoor soccer complex from his childhood in Oklahoma, where he filmed scenes that highlighted both nostalgia and the theme of gay awakening. This connection to his roots is further exemplified in the album’s bold imagery and lyrics, which encompass his experiences as an openly gay man.

As Chance looks towards the future, he is eager to resume touring and performing live. “I want to get back in a f—ing van and play 100 shows next year,” he exclaimed, while also recognising the importance of prioritising his health. He conveyed a sense of determination to make it work, ensuring that his fans understand if he needs to take a step back at times.

Reflecting on this new chapter in his life, he stated, “I am determined to keep going… This is a new chapter for me in, I think, the middle of a long book,” underscoring his resilience and commitment to his craft. With ‘BOYSTOWN,’ Greyson Chance invites listeners into his world, filled with vulnerability, authenticity, and an unwavering spirit to persevere.