Olivia Rodrigo Unveils New Album Collaboration with Robert Smith from The Cure
Olivia Rodrigo delighted fans with an unexpected duet featuring The Cure’s Robert Smith during a live performance at the Primavera Sound festival. The surprise collaboration serves as the highlight of Rodrigo’s upcoming album, set for release in less than a week. The reveal of their musical partnership took place on stage, as Rodrigo introduced the song “What’s Wrong With Me” with Smith as the featured artist.
Rodrigo expressed her excitement for the duet, acknowledging that it marks the first time she has featured another artist on one of her songs. The collaboration was kept under wraps prior to the festival, only known to a select group of insiders who attended a listening session for the album in Los Angeles. The addition of Smith on the track “What’s Wrong With Me” caught many by surprise, especially since Rodrigo had released two singles referencing The Cure before.
The bond between Rodrigo and Smith extends beyond this recent collaboration, as they had previously shared the stage at the Glastonbury festival, where they performed iconic songs like “Just Like Heaven” and “Friday I’m in Love.” Their chemistry on stage was undeniable, paving the way for a full-fledged collaboration on Rodrigo’s upcoming album.
The tracklist for Rodrigo’s third album, titled “You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love,” had initially omitted the mention of Smith as a featured artist on “What’s Wrong WIth Me.” The breezy pop song, infused with Rodrigo’s signature style, explores themes of heartbreak and realization. The lyrics capture a poignant moment of self-discovery, as the narrator grapples with the realization that her relationship may be the source of her unhappiness.
Rodrigo’s performance at the Primavera Sound festival was a last-minute surprise, with the announcement coming just hours before she took the stage. While Smith’s appearance alongside Rodrigo was unexpected, it added an extra layer of intrigue to the event, showcasing their dynamic musical partnership.
Smith’s involvement in the festival extended beyond his collaboration with Rodrigo, as The Cure headlined the event the night before. Their setlist featured a mix of classic hits and newer tracks, delighting fans with an immersive concert experience. The band’s return to the stage after an 18-month hiatus was met with enthusiasm, setting the stage for their upcoming tour of Europe.
The unexpected duet between Olivia Rodrigo and Robert Smith serves as a testament to their mutual admiration for each other’s work. Their collaboration on “What’s Wrong With Me” adds a unique touch to Rodrigo’s forthcoming album, solidifying her status as a rising star in the music industry.