Olivia Rodrigo, good 4 u | Track Review

Olivia Rodrigo brings the heat on “good 4 u,” the energetic, angst-laden pop-punk single from her debut album, SOUR.

It is no secret that Olivia Rodrigo has totally blown up. “drivers license” gave the pop artist and actress a tremendous breakthrough single that any up-and-coming artist would kill for.  Then, Rodrigo followed it up with another fine and respectable, though less successful single in “déjà vu”.  The record at hand, the third single from her debut album, SOUR, “good 4 u” eclipses “déjà vu” and gives “drivers license” a run for its money – no cap! “Good 4 u” was written by Rodrigo and Daniel Nigro.  Nigro also produces the track alongside Alexander 23 (a pop artist in his own right).  Lots to heart about this single.

So, why is “good 4 u” such a good single from Olivia Rodrigo. Well, first and foremost, it comes down to Olivia.  She brings ample personality to the track, which is obvious from the beginning.  She is a good singer by all means, but sometimes, just having that personality – that ‘bigger than life’ presence – can go equally far.  Here, on “good 4 u,” she really brings the attitude and the feistiness.  Furthermore, she has the songwriting to sell via her performance, which deals with the ever-relatable topic of heartbreak. The best moment, unsurprisingly, is the chorus where she’s “Cryin’ on the floor of my bathroom / But you’re so unaffected, I really don’t get it / but I guess good for you.”  The final piece of the sheer excellence? The production! Nigro and Alexander 23 craft a lit backdrop filled with angst matching this pop-punk oriented joint.  The electric guitar, keys, and programming are on-point.

Final Thoughts  

Clearly, Olivia Rodrigo is on her way to legit superstardom.  SOUR is poised to be a big-time hit, and third single “good 4 u” only elevates expectations and projections for the success of the LP. Focusing merely on “good 4 u,” it shines thanks to a huge personality from Rodrigo, strong vocals, lit production work (Nigro/Alexander 23), and relatable (and angst-laden) songwriting.  Rock on Olivia, rock on! 

Olivia Rodrigo • Sour • Geffen • 5.14.21

[: Geffen]