Images from Olivia Rodrigo’s childhood, where she can be seen performing for her soft toys, are an emotional touchstone during her GUTS World Tour. She finds these glimpses into her younger years moving, and her mother, in particular, can’t hold back her tears. These moments are captured in Netflix’s recently released concert film dedicated to Olivia Rodrigo’s GUTS World Tour. The singer is elated to revisit those nostalgic images, as they remind her of her life-long aspiration of being a performer. She expresses immense gratitude for the way her dreams have materialized.
Rodrigo’s second album, GUTS, released in September the previous year, received overwhelming support, a fact that enabled her to double the performances of her 2022 SOUR Tour. She stepped up on stages at prestigious venues, transitioning from smaller auditoriums to grand arenas such as Madison Square Garden in New York City and Los Angeles’ Intuit Dome, where the concert film was shot for Netflix. Her hope is that this concert film will quench the thirst of those fans who couldn’t attend her live shows.
In Rodrigo’s view, the Netflix concert film will offer something new and exciting to her fans. She believes the film’s unique angles and distinct perspectives will be invigorating even for those fans who have previously watched her concerts. During a sit-down chat, the young superstar shares her experience of performing live, offers guidance to upcoming performer Chappell Roan, and ponders over the possibilities of a return to acting.
When asked about the transition from performing at theaters to arenas, verbally duplicating the number of her shows, Rodrigo admitted to the stark contrast. She deemed the two tours as completely different experiences, pointing out that her debut SOUR Tour felt rather intimate. While she appreciated starting her touring journey that way, GUTS allowed her to explore unfamiliar territories and larger venues, which undoubtedly boosted her confidence as a performer.
Concerning her band, which consists of female, trans, and non-binary musicians, Rodrigo claims the same for her first tour. Rodrigo, who holds a deep admiration for all-girl rock bands like Sleater-Kinney, Hole, and Babes in Toyland, wanted to foster a similar environment during her tour. This aspiration clearly reflects her love for rock music, particularly when performed by female artists.
On stage, one of Rodrigo’s performance staples was ‘Pretty Isn’t Pretty’ from the album GUTS. The song’s thought-provoking lyrics coupled with its catchy rhythm makes it her favorite to perform. The track went through multiple iterations before Rodrigo was satisfied that it precisely articulated her thoughts. While it may not be a major hit, she receives profound joy in witnessing how a handful of fans in the audience deeply connect with the song’s lyrics. These fans are usually her focus while performing this piece, leading to a more significant and personal experience for her.
Rodrigo’s fan base spans across different age groups. The sight of fans in their 30s and 40s singing her lyrics at concerts consistently provides an element of surprise and joy to her. The starlet is exhilarated by the diversity displayed by her audience, which she sees as a testament to music’s universal nature. She sincerely hopes her honest and vulnerable songwriting will resonate with people of all ages.
When queried about her favorite from SOUR, ‘Enough for You’, Rodrigo nostalgically discusses composing the song in her room, all by herself. While she no longer feels the insecurity that fueled the song, she admits it’s a poignant reminder of her younger self. Thus, it holds a special place in her heart.
Chappell Roan’s contribution to the GUTS World Tour was monumentally helpful to Rodrigo. With her opening shows, Roan significantly assisted Rodrigo in understanding and shaping her performance. Her profound involvement necessitated including her in the concert film. Performing ‘Hot to Go!’ together ignited the audience, creating an unforgettable experience for both.
Rodrigo first encountered Roan at Dan Nigro’s studio, where they would often cross paths during their individual recording sessions. Roan even lent her vocals to some of Rodrigo’s tracks from SOUR and GUTS. Rodrigo is thrilled to witness Roan’s well-deserved recognition and growth in their shared industry.
Regarding advice for newcomers to her industry, Rodrigo admits it can be overwhelming. As someone who experienced a sudden take-off in her own career, she emphasizes the importance of grounding oneself in the things that provide genuine purpose, beyond charts and accolades. Keeping such a perspective, she believes, leads to a happier, more balanced life.
Despite her busy schedule, Rodrigo confirms she has been writing new songs whenever she can, treating songwriting as a self-care routine. However, she is keen to keep a relaxed attitude towards creating music, without considering the pressure of public reception.
Her nomination for ‘Best Rock Song’ at the Grammys, alongside renowned bands such as The Rolling Stones, Foo Fighters and Queens of the Stone Age, was a gratifying moment for Rodrigo. She took great pride in being acknowledged within a genre that has traditionally been dominated by men and felt welcomed into the rock music community.
When contemplating a dream collaboration, Rodrigo excitedly names Gwen Stefani. After performing with her at Coachella, Rodrigo has an even more profound admiration for Stefani’s grounded personality and powerful songwriting. A joint project with her idol would be a thrilling experience for Rodrigo.
Podriga also touches on her interest in acting roles unrelated to music. Even though she has built a successful music career, she wishes to explore other creative avenues. As for what the future could hold in store for her, she leaves it to time to tell.