Olivia Rodrigo has released her latest single, “Vampire,” giving fans a taste of her highly anticipated upcoming album, ‘Guts.’ The track, produced by Daniel Nigro, who also collaborated with Rodrigo on her 2021 album ‘Sour,’ signals a new musical direction for the singer. Departing from the dreamy minimalism of her debut, “Vampire” takes a rock-opera inspired route, characterized by pounding drums and frantic pianos.
Rodrigo revealed that the song originated from a moment of personal turmoil. Sitting alone at the grand piano in the studio, the chords, melody, and lyrics flowed out of her effortlessly, almost like an out-of-body experience. Initially intended as a piano ballad, Rodrigo and Nigro transformed it into a heartbreak anthem with dynamic tempo changes and impactful drums, creating a song that combines emotional vulnerability with an energetic danceable quality.
The accompanying music video, directed by renowned artist Petra Collins, showcases Rodrigo singing in a forest that is later revealed to be a stage at an awards show. As the performance unfolds, a studio light falls on her, and she is chased by security, symbolizing the pressures and challenges of fame. Collins and Rodrigo have previously collaborated on the videos for “Brutal” and “Good 4 You.”
“Vampire” serves as the lead single from Olivia Rodrigo’s second album, ‘Guts,’ scheduled for release on September 8 via Geffen Records. The album builds upon the success of her 2022 LP, ‘Sour,’ which earned Rodrigo three Grammy Awards for Best Pop Vocal Album, Best New Artist, and Best Pop Solo Performance, as well as a BRIT Award for International Song of the Year.
Olivia Rodrigo, born on February 20, 2003, in Temecula, California, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She gained worldwide recognition with her debut single “Drivers License,” which topped the charts and marked her entry into the music industry. Her debut album, ‘Sour,’ released in 2021, received critical acclaim and established Rodrigo as a prominent pop artist. With its introspective lyrics and emotive sound, ‘Sour’ resonated with audiences and earned Rodrigo several prestigious awards, including three Grammy Awards and a BRIT Award. Olivia Rodrigo’s highly anticipated second album, ‘Guts,’ promises to showcase her evolving musical style and artistic growth.