Olivia’s band members are all big fans of Turnstile.
Olivia Rodrigo, during the promotion of her second album GUTS in 2023, shared that two 90s alt. rock bands, Babes In Toyland and Rage Against The Machine, were significant influences on the record. Rodrigo expressed her admiration for Rage Against The Machine in an interview with Rolling Stone magazine, revealing that she had been immersing herself in their music while traveling to and from the studio. The young singer-songwriter’s performances at prestigious events like the Glastonbury festival, BST Hyde Park headline show, and the Guts World Tour concert film showcased her incredible backing band. The band consists of talented musicians including drummer Hayley Brownell, bassist Moa Munoz, and guitarists Daisy Spencer and Arianna Powell, who are hailed as guitar heroes inspiring a new generation of musicians.
Powell, one of the guitarists in Rodrigo’s band, shared in a recent interview with Guitar World that receiving direct messages from fans who are excited and inspired by their performances is a rewarding experience. Powell emphasized the importance of young girls and women seeing themselves represented in the music industry, especially in rock music where female representation has historically been limited. Powell, who first played with Rodrigo during her rendition of Drivers License on Saturday Night Live in 2021, highlighted the shift in energy between performances for Rodrigo’s debut album sour and the GUTS tour. The evolution of Rodrigo’s music from a singer-songwriter style in sour to a more rock-oriented sound in GUTS creates a different dynamic in their live shows.
Rodrigo’s appreciation for featuring guitars prominently in her music has allowed Powell to showcase her virtuosity through extended solo sections and guitar solos throughout the set. Powell humorously recalled Rodrigo’s only feedback on her guitar technique being to “be more virtuosic,” leading to the inclusion of shreddy guitar solos in their performances. Powell shared that her decision to play Jackson guitars on stage was influenced by the rising US hardcore band Turnstile, whom both Rodrigo and her bandmates admire. The bold move to switch to a Jackson guitar for the summer shows was met with enthusiasm from fans and fellow musicians, further solidifying Powell’s reputation as a skilled guitarist.
The upcoming highlight for Powell and Rodrigo’s band is headlining the Lollapalooza festival in Chicago on August 1. Powell’s journey with Rodrigo from SNL performances to headlining major music festivals reflects the growth and evolution of their music together. The blend of influences from iconic rock bands, Rodrigo’s creative vision, and Powell’s virtuosic guitar skills creates a captivating and high-energy live performance that continues to resonate with fans across different generations.