Olivia Rodrigo, the 20-year-old musical sensation behind hits like “Vampire,” recently opened up about the monumental impact that Lorde, the 27-year-old chart-topper famous for “Royals,” had on her life and career. In a candid conversation for Off Script with The Hollywood Reporter, Olivia delved into her profound connection to Lorde’s music and how it influenced her trajectory.
Reflecting on her early teenage years, Olivia vividly recalled the pivotal moment when she got her first phone at around 12 or 13. “The first thing I did was download Lorde, Pure Heroine,” she reminisced with enthusiasm. “I love that record so much. I remember listening to it as I first started writing songs and just being blown away by her lyrics that are just about, you know, being a teenager, living in the suburbs.”
For Olivia, Lorde’s music resonated deeply because it captured the essence of youthful experiences and mundane moments, turning them into something meaningful. “Her songs made being young and doing these seemingly unimportant things feel so sacred and beautiful,” Olivia expressed, emphasizing the poignant impact Lorde’s work had on her perspective.
Acknowledging the enduring influence of Lorde’s artistry, Olivia emphasized, “That album is one of my favorites, and she still inspires me a lot to this day.” Her admiration for Lorde’s storytelling and lyrical prowess continues to shape Olivia’s approach to her own craft, serving as a guiding light in her musical journey.
In particular, Olivia highlighted the transformative moment she first heard “Royals” playing on the radio. “I remember hearing that song on the radio for the first time. It was one of those pinch-me moments where you always remember — snapshot memory. Like, ‘Oh my God. What is this?’” Olivia gushed, reliving the excitement of that pivotal encounter with Lorde’s groundbreaking track.
Expressing the profound impact of encountering Lorde’s music at such a formative stage in her life, Olivia emphasized, “It changes the trajectory of your life.” Her admiration for Lorde’s ability to capture the essence of teenage experiences and transform them into compelling narratives continues to resonate deeply with Olivia, shaping her artistic vision and creative journey.
Olivia Rodrigo’s heartfelt acknowledgment of Lorde’s influence stands as a testament to the enduring power of musical inspiration, highlighting the impact one artist’s work can have on shaping the aspirations and creative direction of another.
