Olivia rodrigo's unexpected wisdom: cards, butterflies, and a revolution in songwriting
Forget the meticulously crafted image; behind Olivia Rodrigo’s pop anthems lies a surprisingly introspective and delightfully chaotic process, revealed in a rare, unfiltered conversation with her best friend, Madison Hu.
Decoding the chaos: a card-based brainstorm
The interview began with a seemingly odd request – a pack of cards. Olivia, alongside editor-in-chief Willa Bennett, spent an afternoon manifesting her year ahead with vision boards and a healthy dose of Nertz. It’s a testament to Madison Hu’s ability to navigate Olivia’s “madness,” as she herself describes it – a crucial skill, considering the pop star’s demanding schedule and relentless pursuit of authenticity.
From sold-out shows to soul-searching lyrics
Between two sold-out world tours, three Grammys, and a dizzying array of brand campaigns, Olivia and Madison are grappling with the complexities of early adulthood. As Olivia admits, ‘I just feel a lot less afraid, in a good way.’ This newfound confidence, fueled by travel and performance experiences—from the Philippines to Glastonbury—is evident in her evolving songwriting, moving away from the raw heartbreak of SOUR towards a more playful, joyous exploration of love and experience.
The unconventional muse: nertz and butterflies
“See, now this is why patience is key,” Olivia muses, pulling a winning Nertz hand. “Nertz is my greatest teacher.” It’s a moment of unexpected wisdom, revealing a core belief: that even in the midst of chaos and pressure, there’s value in slowing down, observing, and embracing the unexpected. The butterfly motif, a recurring theme in her visuals, symbolizes this pursuit of beauty and freedom.
A shift in perspective: from fear to joy
The transition from SOUR to GUTS marks a deliberate shift in Olivia’s approach. ‘We really edited the hell out of this album,’ she explains, describing the meticulous process of crafting a sound that feels genuinely reflective of her current emotional state. “There was so much more joy in the songwriting,” she continues, “There are some songs that are plain old sad but also some songs that are just plain old fun.”
‘Drop dead’ – a glimpse into the new era
Her latest single, ‘drop dead,’ is a vibrant embodiment of this newfound optimism, featuring a Music video set in the opulent Palace of Versailles. The track, driven by a youthful exuberance and a touch of self-deprecating humor, broke records and solidified Olivia’s position as a groundbreaking artist. It’s a testament to her willingness to experiment, to embrace vulnerability, and to connect with her audience on a deeply personal level.
Beyond the headlines: friendship and authenticity
But beyond the awards and the chart-topping hits, Olivia’s most enduring strength lies in her genuine connection with her friends, particularly Madison Hu. Their bond, forged at 12 years old and documented across Instagram, is a source of strength and support—a reminder that even amidst the whirlwind of fame, the most valuable relationships are built on shared experiences and unwavering loyalty. As Olivia puts it, “Madison, you’re the longest love of my life besides my parents.”