Olivia Rodgro’s debut album “Sour”

Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Carolyn Malman, Co-Editor of Arts and Entertainment

By Carolyn Malman

 

On Friday May 21st, Olivia Rodrigo released her breakout album titled “Sour” following the success of her debut single titled “Driver’s license”, which immediately established her stardom. Her undeniable song writing talent paired with her powerful vulnerability connect with each and every listener. Following the release of “Driver’s License”, Rodrigo showcased another side of her songwriting on her next single titled “Deja Vu”. This song features metallic beats with a more alternative-pop sound. And even more dynamic, Olivia Rodrigo incorporates an early 2000’s punk sound, which resembles artists like Paramore and Avril Levigne, in “Good 4 u”. Clearly, she cannot be labeled as an artist who simply writes breakup songs because “Sour” is far more compelling. On “brutal”, the opening song on the album, she sings that she is “so sick of seventeen”, which sets the tone for Rodrigo’s raw expressions of emotions throughout the album. Not only does she sing about resentment, but she incorporates bittersweet feelings on “favorite crime” and “hope ur ok”, and even anger on “traitor” and “jealousy, jealousy”.

 

In addition to the early 2000’s for inspiration for this album, Olivia Rodrigo draws upon Taylor Swift for songwriting inspiration. Since Swift voiced public support for Rodrigo after she released “Driver’s License”, Swift has become Rodrigo’s mentor and even friend. Being a long time Swiftie herself, Rodrigo was able to sample Taylor Swift’s song “New Year’s Day” on “1 step forward, 3 steps back”. Rodrigo even describes Swift as “the kindest individual in the world” in an interview with SiriusXM. Overall, Swift’s experience in young stardom can hopefully aid Rodrigo throughout her career. 

Check out “Sour” on all music streaming platforms.