In “California”, Chappell expresses homesickness and disappointment that her plans of moving to California for her music career weren’t working out as she had planned.

Chappell originally wrote and released “California” in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic while quarantining in her hometown of Willard, Missouri. Chappell penned the song following a setback in her career when her 2020 single “Pink Pony Club” didn’t meet expectations, resulting in the label she was signed with at the time dropping her. The disappointment weighs heavy as she reflects on her upbringing, during which was always told she could achieve anything she set her mind to.

Through “California,” Chappell offers a candid glimpse into her own personal journey and the resilience required to navigate the twists and turns of the music industry.

“California” would later be rereleased on her debut studio album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess on September 22nd, 2023.