Olivia Rodrigo’s highly anticipated second studio album, “GUTS,” has arrived, and it’s everything fans hoped for and more. Following the massive success of her debut album “SOUR,” Rodrigo delves deeper into her personal experiences, post-breakup emotions, and the rollercoaster of young adulthood. This album showcases significant growth in her artistry, both lyrically and musically. Let’s dive into a detailed ranking of each track on “GUTS,” exploring what makes each song unique and where they stand within this impressive collection.
12. Love is Embarrassing
Kicking off the ranking with “Love is Embarrassing,” this track, while enjoyable, lands at the bottom due to its slightly less impactful presence compared to the album’s overall strength. The song explores the relatable feeling of looking back at a past relationship and cringing at the intense infatuation and perhaps over-the-top actions taken in the name of love. Rodrigo captures the universal experience of romantic embarrassment, but musically, it doesn’t quite reach the heights of other tracks on “GUTS.” It’s a solid song, but within such a strong album, it naturally finds itself lower in the ranking.
11. bad idea right?
“bad idea right?” bursts onto the scene with an infectious energy, embodying the impulsive decision to reconnect with an ex. This upbeat track vividly portrays the internal debate and justifications that come with considering a questionable romantic choice after a night out. The song’s strength lies in its relatable scenario and Rodrigo’s playful delivery of her internal monologue. While undeniably catchy and fun, lyrically, “bad idea right?” might feel like it’s missing a layer of depth present in other “GUTS” songs, preventing it from climbing higher in this ranking.
10. pretty isn’t pretty
“pretty isn’t pretty” tackles the heavy topic of self-image struggles and the relentless pursuit of unattainable beauty standards. Olivia Rodrigo’s lyrics powerfully convey the emotional turmoil of navigating self-confidence in a world obsessed with appearances. She provides specific examples of her insecurities, making the song deeply relatable. However, while the lyrical content is strong and emotionally resonant, the musical arrangement of “pretty isn’t pretty” perhaps doesn’t amplify the emotional weight as effectively as it could, holding it back slightly in this ranking compared to tracks where music and lyrics achieve a more synergistic emotional impact.
9. vampire
As the lead single from “GUTS,” “vampire” made a powerful initial statement. It showcased Olivia Rodrigo’s evolution as an artist, highlighting her vocal growth and a darker, more mature sound compared to her “SOUR” era. The song’s release was undeniably impactful and generated significant buzz. However, its placement at number nine in this ranking is less about its quality and more about overexposure. Being the first single, many fans, including myself, had listened to “vampire” extensively before the full album release, which slightly diminished its freshness and impact within the context of the complete “GUTS” experience.
8. teenage dream
“teenage dream” serves as the poignant closing track of “GUTS,” mirroring the album structure of “SOUR.” This song delves into Olivia Rodrigo’s anxieties about aging and the potential for her success to fade as she moves beyond her teenage years. She expresses a fear of disappointing fans who connect with her portrayal of teenage life. While “teenage dream” is a fitting and emotionally resonant conclusion to the album, the structural similarity to “SOUR”‘s ending makes it feel slightly less innovative. A more unexpected closing could have potentially elevated the album’s overall impact, but the song itself is a strong and introspective piece.
7. the grudge
“the grudge” occupies a solid middle ground within the “GUTS” tracklist. This song meticulously details the complex emotions following a breakup, specifically focusing on the struggle to forgive a former partner. Rodrigo articulates the lingering pain and confusion, questioning how her ex could have acted in hurtful ways. The song’s abrupt ending mid-sentence, “It takes strength to forgive but-,” effectively captures the unresolved nature of grudges and the ongoing process of healing. “the grudge” is a strong track that effectively bridges the album, with even more compelling songs positioned just ahead.
6. logical
Initially, “logical” didn’t immediately stand out, but repeated listens, particularly in an immersive setting like driving with the volume up, reveal its brilliance. The song’s bridge is a standout moment, delivering a powerful emotional punch. “logical” showcases Rodrigo’s ability to convey deep personal meaning through her music. The track’s strength lies in its ability to build emotional resonance over time, ultimately earning its place among the top favorites on “GUTS.” It’s a testament to the album’s depth that even songs that aren’t instant hits have the potential to become deeply appreciated with further engagement.
5. get him back!
“get him back!” is a masterclass in wordplay, built around a clever double entendre. Olivia Rodrigo explores the conflicting desires for revenge and reconciliation after a breakup. The song captures the push and pull of wanting to both get back at and get back with an ex. Its energetic and jumpy rhythm makes it an undeniable crowd-pleaser, perfectly envisioning fans singing along at concerts. “get him back!” is a fun, dynamic track that showcases Rodrigo’s lyrical creativity and ability to tap into relatable post-breakup emotions with a playful twist.
4. ballad of a homeschooled girl
“ballad of a homeschooled girl,” the fifth track on “GUTS,” delves into themes of social anxiety and awkwardness. Rodrigo bravely exposes her vulnerabilities, singing about feeling out of place and socially inept at parties and in public. The song’s raw honesty and relatable portrayal of social anxiety are incredibly compelling. Musically, “ballad of a homeschooled girl” features a punk-inspired edge reminiscent of “brutal” from “SOUR,” highlighting Rodrigo’s versatility and vocal prowess. This track is a powerful and authentic exploration of personal insecurities.
3. making the bed
“making the bed” takes a common idiom and transforms it into a poignant reflection on fame and personal responsibility. Olivia Rodrigo explores her complex relationship with fame, acknowledging both the resentment and the desire for it. She admits to being the architect of her own situation, “making her bed” and now having to “lie in it.” The song’s soft musicality and introspective lyrics create a captivating and emotionally resonant listening experience, further showcasing Rodrigo’s maturity and songwriting depth on “GUTS.”
2. all-american b****
“all-american b**** ” explodes onto the album as the opening track, setting the tone for “GUTS” perfectly. It masterfully blends soft, almost deceptive, guitar intro with a sudden burst of punk energy, complete with distorted guitars, before seamlessly transitioning back. This dynamic track is a showcase for Rodrigo’s vocal range and her ability to convey angst and raw emotion. As an album opener, “all-american b**** ” is unparalleled, grabbing the listener’s attention immediately and signaling the exciting sonic journey that “GUTS” offers.
1. lacy
Taking the coveted number one spot is “lacy,” a track that epitomizes emotional vulnerability and lyrical beauty. Olivia Rodrigo explores feelings of insecurity and jealousy directed towards another person, crafting exquisite lyrics delivered with soft, heart-wrenching vocals. The song evokes a profound sense of longing and hurt, creating an immersive emotional experience. “lacy” is a masterpiece of songwriting and performance, where every element—lyrics, vocals, and music—converges perfectly to create a truly unforgettable and deeply moving listening experience, making it the standout track on “Olivia Rodrigo Guts Songs.” It’s a song that lingers long after the music stops, solidifying its place as the best on the album.
Overall, “GUTS” undoubtedly surpasses “SOUR,” cementing Olivia Rodrigo’s status as a major force in contemporary music. With a world tour on the horizon, the future is bright for this incredibly talented artist.
