Olivia Rodrigo is an American actor, singer and songwriter who has taken the music industry by storm. Rodrigo first gained recognition for her role in the Disney+ series “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series.” She released her debut album, “Sour,” on May 21, 2021 which became a global sensation.
Releasing a sophomore album is a huge challenge, especially for artists like Rodrigo, who have achieved tremendous success so early on in their music career. She has been called by skeptics, “a fleeting sensation,” but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Her talent and growth is undeniable.
Olivia Rodrigo’s new album, “GUTS,” was released September 8, 2023. It features no guest appearances across the 12 tracks and clocks in at approximately 39 minutes. The album is a powerful, authentic expression of her artistry and expresses raw vulnerability. She incorporates a lot of instruments like electric guitars, pianos, and even moments of intense screaming to create a musical landscape that mirrors a rollercoaster of emotions. Her music delves into early-2000’s sounding pop-punk, rock and indie pop styles, as well as 1990s alternative music influence.
One of the remarkable aspects of “GUTS” is its connection to modern-day issues. Rodrigo’s lyrics delve into themes of self-doubt, heartbreak, and overwhelming pressure. It’s an album that not only defines the teenage years but resonates with the human experience as a whole.
According to The Crimson’s review, “Rodrigo has expanded her music’s themes to body image issues in ‘pretty isn’t pretty,’ social embarrassments in ‘ballad of a homeschooled girl,’ ex-longing in ‘bad idea right?’ and more.” She has also written gut-wrenching ballads for this album like “Making the Bed” and “Logical”.
Listening to “GUTS,” I’ve laughed, cried, and even felt moments of anger. Rodrigo will yell her heart out and then her very next song will sing a heartfelt line about “flowers filled with vitriol.” Her beautiful lyrics allow her to combine two very different feelings into one album. As a 15-year-old girl, I can attest that this album resonates deeply with the feelings and experiences many young people face today.
It takes a few plays to truly understand the depth of its meaning and appreciate the layers of emotion embedded in each track. Rodrigo has done a remarkable job making an album that not only showcases her talent but also provides a voice for a generation. Her music is a testament to her talent and ability to connect with people on a deeply emotional level.
