Olivia Rodrigo has shared her sophomore album, GUTS. Before the release, Rodrigo talked about the album’s maturity level, saying she felt she “grew 10 years between the ages of 18 and 20.” The thematic elements of the album have undoubtedly leveled up, but according to Rodrigo, her craft has also been further honed.
Videos by American Songwriter
“Making this album has given me a lot of confidence as a songwriter,” Rodrigo said speaking to Apple Music’s Zane Lowe.
[RELATED: Olivia Rodrigo Will Perform at This Year’s VMAs]
She went on to comment on the difference between her debut record, Sour, and GUTS.
“I think writing the first album was so spontaneous,” she added. “I was 17 years old, learning how to write songs for the first time. I was pouring my heart out and had so much to say.
“This time, I was in a different place and I was having a lot of pressure,” she continued. “I think I really had to try and block out the noise and just focus on the craft of songwriting. I wasn’t going through my first 17-year-old heartbreak. It forced me to be a little more creative.”
Lowe then asked her exactly where her creativity took her on this record.
“In hindsight, I think a lot of this album is about the confusion that comes along with becoming a young adult and figuring out your place in this world,” she added. “I think that is an experience that everyone has had before.”
GUTS arrived today (September 8). The highly anticipated record was previewed by two singles, “vampire” and “bad idea right?”
“I feel so many feelings,” Rodrigo wrote on Instagram. “I feel excited, nervous, proud, but mostly I feel so grateful. I feel grateful for everyone on my team who believes in me supports me and inspires me.
“Thank you to everyone who has listened and streamed,” she added. “I owe so much to you guys and I really hope you dig these new songs. Lots and lots of live for ever and ever!”
Photo courtesy of Zamar Velez / UMusic
