Olivia Rodrigo, as a pop star, possesses a unique set of skills. She is a skilled writer and a natural singer, devoid of pretense. She shies away from artificiality, exuding modesty rather than sensuality. Despite achieving immense fame in a short span of three years, with a quadruple platinum debut album and a Grammy win for best new artist, she still manages to maintain an underdog persona.
One of Rodrigo’s standout weapons is her use of a sharp and versatile curse word, which she strategically deploys in her music, adding a touch of intensity. This word features prominently in hits like “Drivers License” and “Vampire,” infusing her passionate performances with an extra layer of emotion. It serves as a way for her to convey her inner turmoil beneath a composed exterior.
During her recent performance at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, Calif., as part of the Guts World Tour, Rodrigo liberally sprinkled this word throughout her set. Whether for emphasis, dismissiveness, or exasperation, she used it effortlessly in her interactions with the audience, reveling in the freedom it provided.
Rodrigo’s music, particularly in “Guts,” delves into the complexities of navigating newfound fame while grappling with societal expectations of goodness. It explores the tension between freedom and rebellion, capturing the essence of challenging norms and breaking boundaries.
Her live performance mirrored this dichotomy, blending the precision of musical theater with the raw energy of pop-punk and piano ballads. Rodrigo’s hour-and-a-half set showcased her ability to transition seamlessly between roaring anthems and heartfelt ballads, captivating the 11,000-strong audience with her commanding stage presence.
While Rodrigo shines in delivering faithful renditions of her songs, she also infuses them with moments of spontaneity and rebellion. From using a megaphone during “Get Him Back!” to performing with unbridled passion on “Obsessed,” she effortlessly combines vulnerability with fierceness, captivating her audience at every turn.
Despite her magnetic stage persona, Rodrigo’s true strength lies in the authenticity of her vocals. Whether belting out powerful ballads or delivering haunting melodies, her voice remains the focal point of her performance, transcending any elaborate stage theatrics.
Rodrigo’s impact extends beyond her music, as she embraces a blend of innocence and resilience in her fashion choices. Her fans emulate this style, with many sporting similar outfits at her concerts. The merchandise booths offer a range of girlish accessories, reinforcing the theme of girl power that permeates her brand.
Supporting young women is a key focus for Rodrigo, with proceeds from her tour benefiting various charitable causes. Her commitment to empowering girls and advocating for their rights underscores her belief in the importance of amplifying female voices.
Rodrigo’s performance serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of girlhood, with songs like “Teenage Dream” exploring the nostalgia and uncertainty that accompany growing up. She maintains a delicate balance between youthful innocence and emerging adulthood, resonating with audiences of all ages.
As Rodrigo continues to evolve as an artist, her introspective lyrics and emotive performances offer a glimpse into her journey from adolescence to adulthood. Despite nearing the symbolic age of 21, she remains connected to her younger self, navigating the transition with grace and authenticity.