Olivia Rodrigo Announces “Experimental” Sad Love Album

Renowned American singer Olivia Rodrigo has revealed that her forthcoming album will take a decidedly “experimental” direction, featuring what she describes as a collection of “sad love songs”. Fans have already begun spotting enigmatic pink teasers linked to the album across Los Angeles and London, hinting at the impending release of her latest musical venture.

Rodrigo’s most recent album, Guts, was released in 2023, following the global success of her 2021 debut, Sour. Since then, she has performed at numerous high-profile events, most notably headlining the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury 2025, where The Cure frontman Robert Smith joined her as a special guest. This performance solidified her reputation as one of the most compelling contemporary artists of her generation.

In a feature interview with British Vogue, Rodrigo described the new album as her “most experimental work to date”. She characterised one track as “smooth, trippy soft rock” and explained her inspiration: “I realised that the romantic songs I love most are beautiful because they carry an undercurrent of fear or longing. This album is full of that kind of melancholy love.”

She also shared that her extended time in London has heavily influenced the album’s composition. “Spending time here inspired many of the songs. Writing from a place of joy is a creative challenge—when you feel deeply connected or genuinely happy, the sweet-sad poetry doesn’t naturally come,” she said. Rodrigo’s London residency is also rumoured to be linked to her relationship with British actor Louis Partridge.

Robert Smith told British Vogue that he became a fan of Rodrigo after hearing her breakout single Drivers License, subsequently exploring both Sour and Guts. He said, “Although these albums weren’t made for someone my age, the songs are so good it’s impossible not to fall in love with them.” The two artists have maintained a friendship since Glastonbury 2025, with future collaborations hinted at. Smith added, “Olivia often calls me to discuss fashion, and we’ve enjoyed numerous memorable studio nights. I eagerly await her next project.”

Rodrigo cites musical influences ranging from New Order and Joy Division to The White Stripes and Bikini Kill, with her parents’ love of grunge, rock, and alternative music shaping her childhood and artistic sensibilities.

The table below summarises the key details of Rodrigo’s three albums to date:

Rodrigo’s musical journey demonstrates a continual evolution and willingness to explore new artistic avenues, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the release of her highly anticipated next album.