LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. — The eagerness and excitement of Olivia Rodrigo releasing a new album after three years has been circling Los Alamitos High School. With her new single titled “drop dead,” listeners are given a glimpse into the vibe for her album, “You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love,” releasing on June 12. With a blend of soft rock and pop, the song manifests the thrill of romance and true love through her eyes.
“I like the new song, it’s like a different vibe, more happy, which I’m excited to hear from her. It kind of reminds me of Harry Styles’ stuff, which I really like,” said LAHS sophomore Valentina Crain.
Although most of Rodrigo’s past songs portray the toxicity and heartbreak of teenage relationships, her new song seems to highlight the positive aspects of young love. This suggests that her new album may be filled with warmer, more intimate songs. However, the album title, “You Seem Pretty Sad For a Girl So In Love,” could mean that she is unhappy in her relationship despite being in love.
“(This album focuses on) romantic relationships, friendships, diving as deep into those as I possibly can,” said Rodrigo in a British Vogue Interview.
Rodrigo explains how the main focus for most of the songs she writes is relationships, both romantic and platonic. This explains why her newest song is full of romantic feelings and loving lyrics. However, in another interview, she revealed the album will include many sad love songs as well, as with her previous albums, “GUTS” and “Sour.”
Some students say the new release reminds them of Chappell Roan’s music, specifically her song “Hot To Go.” Given the similarities between the two, Rodrigo seems to have followed Roan’s footsteps with this song, taking on a more upbeat and lively style. The popularity that followed Roan’s synth-pop music from 2023 has inspired many young musicians, including Rodrigo. These similarities may also be because both Roan and Rodrigo have the same music producer, Dan Nigro.
“The song bears’ resemblance to Chappell Roan’s iconic pop sound,” said LAHS sophomore Naomi Dixon.
Rodrigo’s music video for “drop dead” was filmed in the Palace of Versailles in France, a very rare location for filming movies or music videos due to its numerous restrictions and limitations. The music video featured Rodrigo dancing throughout the palace with headphones and a coquette-style outfit on.
For now, the vibe and message of Rodrigo’s future album are open for interpretation by fans. Whether it will be full of upbeat love songs or more sad songs, it is almost certain that the album will receive lots of love from fans, given the popularity of her single.
