Olivia Rodrigo’s “Guts” a smart pop album after Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift has writing credits on two tracks from Olivia Rodrigo's first album, "Sour," which effectively contain interpolations of Swift's own songs that served as a huge source of inspiration for the young Californian musician

Outlook International Desk

Updated on: 21 September 2023 7:03 am

Olivia Rodrigo playing guitar

Olivia Rodrigo's remarkable music career has been shaped by two entertainment behemoths from the United States. Rodrigo's first showbiz gig was with Disney, where she made her acting debut on a children's television show in 2016. The other one is Taylor Swift, a major source of inspiration for the young Californian singer. Swift is also credited with authoring two songs on Rodrigo's debut album, "Sour," which effectively combine interpolations of Swift's own songs.

Rodrigo's first single was released in 2019 on a Disney-owned record label. However, for her breakthrough hit "Drivers License," one of 2021's biggest songs, she jumped ship to a major label. Sour's global success confirmed her ascension to the pinnacle of pop. "I want it to be, like, messy," the singer says after a Disney-esque introduction of princessy strings. Then a hammering pop-punk riff begins, loud but catchy. Like, rather than actually being messy.

Following the success of "Sour," Rodrigo's second album, "Guts," has been released. The title of the album implies a continuation of the messy theme as well as a representation of resilience. Rodrigo's independent spirit has received much attention, emphasizing her status as a true musician who feels her music in her gut. Taylor Swift's success as a singer-songwriter has also influenced her decision to distance herself from her Disney background. Being the author of one's own songs is highly valued in today's pop landscape, and Rodrigo has embraced this ethos.

"Guts" has received positive reviews, with various reviewers awarding it four out of five stars. The captivating image of Rodrigo on the album cover perfectly captures the essence of her music. While her songs depict the image of a teen misfit, a girl on the outside of an inside joke, the album is not filled with angst. Rodrigo, on the other hand, channels her emotions into energizing pop-punk tracks and heartfelt ballads. This former Disney star turned pop sensation has firmly established herself as an artist worth paying attention to thanks to her undeniable talent and remarkable stage presence.

Olivia Rodrigo's latest album, "Guts," can be listened to from a variety of platforms, including Polydor, where it was released.