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Exploring the Heartfelt Harmonies: Rating My Favorite Tracks from Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘Guts’ Album

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at NCSU chapter.

Olivia Rodrigo is one of my favorite artists ever. The honesty within her music is very inspiring and is something that a lot of people can relate to. I have been listening to her new album, ‘Guts,’ on repeat, so here is a rating and breakdown of my favorite songs:

1. making the bed

The song “making the bed” is definitely my favorite in the Guts album. I think this song plays a beautiful story of reflection and self-accountability. Possessing the self-awareness to understand how your own actions affect you is something that may take time to learn, and I love the way that this song discusses it. 

2. teenage dream

As a 21-year-old, “teenage dream” really hit a soft spot for me. It shares a story of growing up and the complex feelings that come with aging. This song is one that I can really relate to. 

3. lacy

There has been a lot of speculation about what or who the song “lacy” is about. To me, it seems to represent jealousy and longing to be like someone, or to possess certain traits. I think this is something that we have all experienced at some point in our lives, and this song is a great portrayal of that feeling. 

4. pretty isn’t pretty

Again, the song “pretty isn’t pretty” shares a common story that many women and girls experience–a feeling that no matter what you do, you will never be “pretty enough.” Olivia sings about this societal pressure put on women and the feelings that are associated with it. I think this song portrays a powerful message on this. 

5. all-american bitch

The song “all-american bitch” is amazing. It represents this duality between being a “perfect” girl that does everything society tells her, and a girl doing exactly what she wants without worrying of judgement. 

6. logical

The song “logical” discusses the idea that when you are in love, you do not think logically. This song is definitely very relatable, as I am sure we have all been in a place where we make excuses for someone’s bad behavior because of the feelings we have toward them. 

7. the grudge

The song “the grudge” is about holding a grudge against someone who wronged you. One of the lines says “but you know I can’t let it go, I’ve tried, I’ve tried, I’ve tried for so long,” discussing the efforts to get over something, but not being able to. I can relate a lot to this song, having unforgotten feelings about someone that wronged me. 

8. vampire

The first song released on the album, “vampire” is a song relating a lover to a vampire, someone who sucks the life out of you and drains your energy. I love the metaphor within this song and I think the music is extremely catchy. 

9. get him back!

The song “get him back!” is amazing, discussing wanting to get revenge on someone from your past, but at the same time wanting them back in your life. I think this story is very relatable, and it represents uncertainty and the back-and-fourth feelings of past relationships. Sometimes, all you want to think about are the good times, and other times those are completely flooded by the bad ones. 

10. bad idea right?

As much as I don’t want to relate to the song “bad idea right?” I definitely do, and I think many other girls do as well. This song represents a relationship that you know is bad for you, but you want it so bad that it doesn’t matter. 

11. ballad of a homeschooled girl

The song “ballad of a homeschooled girl” talks about feeling uncomfortable, awkward, or out of place in certain situations. I think this is something that we have all related to at a specific time, and this story is very well written in this song. 

12. love is embarrassing

Again, the song “love is embarrassing” is very relatable to many. It discusses the embarrassment that can come with being in love and doing certain things, which ultimately come to a bad ending when the relationship is over. You may look back and be embarrassed at some of the things you did or said. 

The overarching theme I noticed on the ‘Guts’ album is relatability. I love how Olivia Rodrigo does not hold back in her music. She discusses topics that many people shy away from out of embarrassment or shame, topics that people relate to the most. This is one of the many reasons why she is my favorite artist. 

My name is Katie Barrows and I am a writer with a passion for all things related to lifestyle, wellness, relationships, and more. My goal as a Her Campus member is to create content that inspires readers on various aspects of life, from health and well-being to personal growth, while also writing on intriguing, enjoyable topics. I especially love the aspect of community and connections that I have built through HC. Currently, I am a senior at North Carolina State University, pursuing degrees in communications/public relations and business administration. I also have a minor in social work, and actively work with many nonprofit organizations. Outside of my academic and writing pursuits, I love fitness and the outdoors, as well as beauty, makeup, and skincare. I'm also an avid fan of the TV show "Love Island." Looking ahead to life after graduation, I hope to work in the field of public relations and marketing, using my education and writing skills to help organizations effectively convey their messages, build strong brand identities, and connect with their target audiences.