Everything You Need To Know About The New Olivia Rodrigo Tour

What is the history of country music?

The Carter Family may be known as the first family of country music, but they didn’t create the popularized sound. Country music is heavily influenced by blues and gospel that their associate — Black guitarist Lesley Riddle — introduced them to. Riddle himself was taught by his uncle and simply put his own signature twist on what he’d learned. After meeting A.P. Carter, the two developed a friendship and Riddle even taught Maybelle Carter a few things. Besides Riddle, musicians such as Gus Cannon (“Banjo Joe”) and Rufus Payne (“Tee Tot”) also had an influence on country music’s sound. Time made sure to dig deeper and found that the banjo actually even derives from West African lutes which became a huge part of music in southern states.

Interestingly enough, harmonica player DeFord Bailey began playing what he called “Black hillbilly music” and — according to National Geographic — was the first person to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. National Geographic also mentioned how Black artists such as Ray Charles, Tina Turner, and Millie Jackson dabbled in country music, proving that Beyoncé is NOT using this genre as a quick cash grab. As a matter of fact, Black rappers like Snoop Dogg and Nelly have their own country songs. I mean, I’m still listening to Nelly’s song with Tim McGraw called “Over and Over.”

What inspired Beyoncé to write "Cowboy Carter?"

Beyoncé recorded "Daddy Lessons" for her album Lemonade in 2016 and even performed it with The Chicks at the CMAs, but not all country fans were happy about it. Los Angeles Times pointed out that someone went as far as to say that the entertainer didn't belong there. While that’s bad enough, Apparently she experienced more backlash behind the scenes. However, learning the brief history of the genre with a quick google search would dispel that sentiment.

Although she didn't explicitly refer to this experience, but it's heavily implied in a lengthy caption on Instagram that details her inspiration for creating this album stem from it. She wrote, "This album has been over five years in the making. It was born out of an experience that I had years ago where I did not feel welcomed…and it was very clear that I wasn’t. But, because of that experience, I did a deeper dive into the history of Country music and studied our rich musical archive...The criticisms I faced when I first entered this genre forced me to propel past the limitations that were put on me. act ii is a result of challenging myself, and taking my time to bend and blend genres together to create this body of work."

Beyoncé's from Houston, Texas — home of The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo — with parents that are from Alabama and Louisiana. To tell a Black person who's from the south that they don't belong in country settings doesn't make sense. But, it still makes me smile knowing Black country artists continue building on the pillars of those who came before them. That they're making sure all voices are heard whether others want to validate it or not.

Black Country Artists Featured on 'Cowboy Carter'

Tanner Adell

I first came across Tanner Adell’s music via Instagram when I heard her catchy song “Buckle Bunny,” realizing it featured a familiar twang I love. As told to Utah Valley University, she shared how their commercial music program helped her hone her voice and performance skills. BET also learned that Adell attended many demolition derbys where she bore witness to her mom’s status as a rodeo queen.

She’s grown her fan base over the years with songs like “Honky Tonk Heartbreak” and “FU-150,” but it’s interesting that one line in “Buckle Bunny” seemed to serve as a manifestation tool. She went from singing, “Lookin’ like Beyoncé with a lasso” to literally being featured on “AMERICAN REQIUEM” and “BLACKBIIRD.”

She expressed her joy at going from attending one of Beyoncé’s concerts to being featured on the album with a heartfelt TikTok. She told W Magazine, “Everyone has the ability to manifest their dreams, and I don’t think I’m different. I’ve been working really hard the last couple of years to get my music and my presence to a place where I’d be ready when someone like Beyoncé gives me the green light…”

You won’t have to wait long to hear more of her music because her new single “Whiskey Blues” debuts April 12! Be sure to pre-save it on Spotfiy or Apple Music!

Brittney Spencer

Brittney Spencer is certainly no stranger to country music with her cover of The Highwomen’s “Crowded Table” and her song “Sober & Skinny.” She told Billboard, “Being Black, a woman, and not a size 2 has certainly presented additional obstacles on my musical journey here in Nashville.” Yet, she hasn’t let any challenges she’s faced deter her from sharing her musical gifts in the world of country music.

Vibe shared that she’s gone on to perform with artists like Reba McEntire which would make anyone’s journey feel worthwhile. As far as how she feels about being on Cowboy Carter, she wrote a genuine caption on Instagram that says, “i’ve typed and deleted at least 10 captions. i don’t hv anything clever or curated to say. i’m on a beyonce record. the album is a masterpiece. ily @beyonce 🐝🌻.”

Tiera Kennedy

Tiera Kennedy describes her music as “an earnest storytelling-based country laced with the influence of R&B.” Her single “Found It In You” is the perfect example of this as she sings about the love she has for her husband and creative director Kamren Kennedy. She’s the host of Apple Music Country and has been named as Nashville Scene declaring that she’s the “total package.”

Her new single “I Ain’t a Cowgirl” debuts April 26, 2024!

Reyna Roberts

One of the other black country artists that should definitely be on your radar is Reyna Roberts, an Alaskan native with a sound that’s equal parts sugar and spice. She released “Raised Right” in 2021 and it echoes this sentiment with lyrics like, “I'm a little bit of whiskey in my sweet tea.” She was featured in Amazon Prime’s documentary about black country artists called For Love & Country and went on to release her debut album Bad Girl Bible, Vol. 1 last year.

She also captured a sweet moment where she told one of her besties that she’s featured on Cowboy Carter on Instagram. She captioned the video, “Episode 1: Telling one of my best friends that I’m on Cowboy Carter! We’ve been dreaming about this day since we were 8 years old!!💙🥹🎉”

Shaboozey

Known for fusing the sounds of hip-hop and country, Shaboozey lends his flow to parts of “SPAGHETTII” and “SWEET HONEY BUCKIIN’” on Cowboy Carter. One of my favorite lyrics of his in the latter song is, “It don’t matter what nobody says. Country boy ‘til the day that I’m dead.” But what the artist is most known for is his own body of work.

His released his EP Cowboys Live Forever, Outlaws Never Die in 2022 and garnered popularity with the single “Beverly Hills.” If you need more of his music in your life, his new album Where I’ve Been, isn’t Where I’m Going debuts May 31!

Willie Jones

Louisiana born country artist Willie Jones may be featured on “JUST FOR FUN,” but his voice flowed through our phones via TikTok before this. After he wowed judges and the audience of The Voice in 2012, he went on to release songs like “Back Porch” and “Down by the Riverside” that also blend the sounds of hip-hop and country.

It just goes to show that country can still maintain the sounds of what it’s known for, but it can also complement other genres.

Linda Martell

Last but not least, queen Linda Martellis featured talking on “SPAGHETTII” & “THE LINDA MARTELL SHOW,” which briefly shed light on how much she contributed to country music. According to her website, she was the “first commercially successful Black female artist in country music.” She was also the first black woman to hit the stage at the Grand Ole Opry.

It’s great to see that she’s finally getting her flowers in such a mainstream way. It’s also telling that people are discrediting an album that she’s featured on.

Is there a music video for Obsessed by Olivia Rodrigo?

Yes, the "Obsessed" music video debuted on March 22, and it's giving major Wednesday and The Summer I Turned Prettyvibes! The song is all about being, well, obsessed with your partner's ex. You can just *feel* Olivia's anxiety through the lyrics. And the music video is a super fun take on a beauty pageant/cotillion situation, with all of her partner's exes prepping to compete against each other. While all the other women are in white, Olivia wears an edgy black dress Wednesday Addams would approve of, with her socks adding Guts' signature red to the outfit.

Is there a deluxe version of GUTS?

Yes, during her Oliva Rodrigo's tour, the singer announced the Guts deluxe edition, which she's calling Guts (Spilled)! The new edition will be released Friday, March 22. In addition to the songs we already have from the original album, Olivia Rodrigo is releasing the fan-favorite “Obsessed,” as well as “Girl I’ve Always Been,” “Scared of My Guitar,” “So American,” and “Stranger.”

What song did Olivia Rodrigo sing at the Grammys?

At the 2024 Grammys, Olivia Rodrigo sang "Vampire" in a red silk dress. The purple virtual background featured some red flowers, but as Olivia sang, the flowers started to bleed. And the longer the song went on, the gorier the scene got (including some fake blood makeup Olivia smeared on her face). I love this approach to the "Vampire" music video because it captures its chaotic energy but feels much more sophisticated. Plus Olivia sounded amazing!!

Ranking Every Track On Olivia Rodrigo's "Guts," A Nearly Impossible Task

Making The Bed

Most Relatable Lyric: “Every good thing has turned into somethin' I dread // And I'm playin' the victim so well in my head”

Now that dreaming about fortune and fame is in Rodrigo’s rearview, "Making The Bed" walks us through the bittersweet reality of getting everything you’ve ever wanted. After all, we can probably all relate to putting our desires on a pedestal and then feeling confused when the reality of those dreams isn't what we expected.

Vampire

Most relatable lyric: "I tried you help you out, now I know that I can't // 'Cause how you think's the kind of thing I'll never understand."

What could be considered the only power ballad on the album, the lyrics in "Vampire" remind us of the “Driver's License"-esque emotions we’ve come to love (and expect) from Rodrigo. She's proven she can fuse anger and regret while still empowering listeners, and "vampire" sinks its teeth in, a theatrical roller-coaster ride worth the repeat.

Lacy

Most relatable lyric: "I feel your compliments like bullеts on skin // Dazzling starlet, Bardot reincarnate // Wеll, aren't you the greatest thing to ever exist?"

Reminiscent of classic green-eyed songs before it, like Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” "Lacy" is a portrait of the other woman. Rodrigo doesn’t outright beg Lacy not to steal her man, but instead details her own flaws through Lacy’s perceived perfections. For Rodrigo, “lacy” is but a characterization of unrealistic expectations that she’s made real.

Ballad Of A Homeschooled Girl

Most relatable lyric: "Everythin' I do is tragic // Every guy I like is gay // The morning after I panic // Oh, God, what did I say?"

Rodrigo reckons with her fear of being seen and of saying the right things. From constantly missing social cues to speaking just to have something to say, "Ballad Of A Homeschooled Girl" mirrors the life of a girl who spends her time twiddling her thumbs one minute and over-analyzing literally everything the next. SO RELATABLE.

All-American B*tch

Most relatable lyric: ”And I am built like a mother and a total machine // I feel for your every little issue, I know just what you mean”

Leading the already iconic tracklist, "All-American B*tch" foreshadows the growing pains and base level of dissatisfaction young women often endure. Caring so much about other people who don't return the favor — even when you wish you didn't — can be really uncomfortable, and whether you're shouldering the emotional baggage of an unattached partner or struggling to maintain the cool girl image, "All-American B*tch" hits the nail on the head.

Bad Idea Right?

Most relatable lyric: ”And I'm sure I've seen much hotter men // But I really can't remember when”

If the saying “rose-colored glasses” existed as a lyric, this would be it. In her second single following “Vampire,” Rodrigo falls into the trap of reconnecting with her ex. “Bad idea right?” It’s a tale as old as time. Do we really need to explain more?

The Grudge

Most relatable lyric: “We both drew blood, but, man, those cuts were never equal // I try to be tough, I try to be mean // But even after all this, you're still everything to me”

Seeing the end of any relationship that once meant a lot to you is so, so painful — especially when you still care about the person. Grudges usually have a purely negative connotation, and we love to see how Rodrigo emphasizes how her grudge is one of love as much as it is hate, making it extra bittersweet.

Logical

Most relatable lyric: "Said I was too young, I was too soft // Can't take a joke, can't get you off"

"Logical" is for every woman who has ever been infantilized by someone she adored. Gaslighters beware. Rodrigo’s merry-go-round storytelling highlights the emotional tension between the love she felt for her ex and their emotional manipulation.

Get Him Back!

Most relatable lyric: "I wanna kiss his face with an uppercut // I wanna meet his mom and tell her her son sucks!"

This song bares the consequences of not immediately hitting the block button when your ex calls. While some of the slower songs on Guts highlight the way love and regret coexist, “Get Him Back!” takes a more upbeat, funny approach that also touches on Rodrigo's frustration.

Love Is Embarrassing

Most relatable lyric: “God, love's f*ckin' embarrassin'”

Another running theme throughout Olivia Rodrigo's Guts? Confusion. But instead of just talking about a partner, Rodrigo's confusion in "Love Is Embarrassing" is also directed towards the nature of romance itself, as well as the lengths we're willing to go for people we tell ourselves we shouldn't care about. In short: yes, love is very embarrassin'.

Pretty Isn't Pretty

Most relatable lyric: "I could change up my body and change up my face // I could try every lipstick in every shade // But I'd always feel the same // 'Cause pretty isn't pretty enough anyway"

Social media, photo editing, and the like have taken a serious toll on the way we see ourselves (after all comparing yourself to the people you see on social media can literally make you more unhappy with your appearance). In what feels like an indirect sequel to Sour's "Jealousy, Jealousy," "Pretty Isn't Pretty" is a reminder that external beauty isn't the end-all-be-all.

Teenage Dream

Most relatable lyric: "When am I gonna stop being a pretty young thing to guys? // When am I gonna stop being great for my age and just start being good? // When will it stop being cool to be quietly misunderstood?"

Rodrigo comes out swinging on Guts' finale (the title of which calls back to a lyric from Sour's opening number "Brutal"). She worries that her glory days are already behind her, and like so many of us, craves to be known, chosen, and loved for exactly who she is — and not for her talent, or her looks, or her brain — whether or not that makes her the ultimate "teenage dream."

What songs are on Guts?

We first got the Guts tracklist thanks to an Instagram video:

1. "All American B*tch"
2. "Bad Idea Right"
3. "Vampire"
4. "Lacy"
5. "Ballad of a Homeschooled Girl"
6. "Making The Bed"
7. "Logical"
8. "Get Him Back"
9. "Love Is Embarrassing"
10. "The Grudge"
11. "Pretty Isn't Pretty"
12. "Teenage Dream"

Are there any music videos?

Yes! We've gotten three music videos so far: "Vampire," "Bad Idea Right?," and "Get Him Back!" The "Vampire" music video emphasizes the scrutiny Olivia Rodrigo feels in the spotlight.

The "Bad Idea Right?" music video totally feels like a scene out of Euphoria — which helps highlight how youthful and chaotic the song actually is.

The music video for "Get Him Back!" is genius for one reason: by adding multiple Olivia's throughout the video, she highlights how it feels like there are multiple versions of herself because of how many different things she wants.

When did Guts come out?

Olivia Rodrigo's Guts dropped on September 8 and we cannot tell you how many time we've listened to the whole thing.

When did Vampire come out?

"Vampire" began streaming on all music platforms June 30, while the follow-up single "bad idea right?" was released on August 10.

Who is Olivia Rodrigo?

Olivia Rodrigo, 20, rose to fame during her role as Nini on High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. A talented singer and actress, Rodrigo was launched into the public spotlight thanks to Sour and fans' speculation that it touched on a suspected love triangle between her, her (now ex) BF and HSMTMTS co-star Joshua Bassett and singer Sabrina Carpenter.

While the public has (mostly) moved on from the rumors, Rodrigo’s talent shined and the singer sent TikTok spiraling with the release of “Driver's License,” followed by Sour in 2021.

Today, the three-time Grammy winner is besties with pop culture power players Iris Apatow, Conan Grey, Billie Eilish, Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, Charlie D’Amelio, Maddie Ziegler, and more. She's also shared the stage with celebrity icons such as Avril Lavigne, Paris Hilton, and Billy Joel.

Why do I always have stomach issues when traveling?

Routine can benefit our mental health, but it also benefits our physical health, too! "Stomach problems tend to flare up while traveling because our usual routines, like mealtimes and sleep patterns, get thrown off, which can disrupt digestion," Simpson says. "Plus, not drinking enough water and trying new foods or eating at odd hours can make matters worse by dehydrating us and upsetting our stomachs.

"Travel anxiety significantly affects our stomachs," she continues. "When we're anxious, our bodies release stress hormones that can disrupt digestion, potentially worsening existing gastrointestinal problems or causing new ones."

And it turns out, flying itself can also affect your gut physically. "Flying or changes in altitude can make your stomach uncomfortable by making the gas in your intestines expand, causing bloating," Simpson says. "Also, the difference in cabin pressure and oxygen levels can dehydrate you, which might worsen digestion and existing stomach problems."

How do you fix travelers stomach?

While travel day stomach problems can take you by surprise, there are a few you can do in the moment to help ease discomfort. "As a traveler with a colon disease and dietary restrictions, I always have Tylenol and digestive enzymes on hand," Tanner says. "Whenever I arrive at my destination, I try to locate the nearest juice/smoothie place to maintain the daily habits that make me feel my best at home."

"I usually bring Dramamine with me just in case I experience a rare bout of nausea, and I've recently been taking 1 teaspoon of digestive bitters before meals to help with heartburn (cute, right?) — they come in really small bottles so they're generally fine to go through security," Storck says. "The day before a long flight, I try to eat whole non-processed foods — nothing that could upset my stomach — and lots of water. I try not to drink on the plane if my stomach feels sensitive (otherwise, a glass of red helps me sleep!)"

You'll also want to be aware of dehydration on your travel day (dehydration makes everything feel worse), and that includes what kind of water you're drinking. "For those with sensitive stomachs, it's a good idea to go for bottled or filtered water while traveling because tap water safety can differ from place to place," Simpson says. "Opting for bottled water helps lower the chance of drinking contaminated water and reduces the risk of health problems."

"It's smart to be careful when sampling new foods while traveling to prevent stomach issues," Simpson continues. "Stick to dishes you're familiar with and that are fully-cooked, and avoid street food in places where cleanliness might be a concern. Also, keep an eye out for any potential allergens or foods that might not agree with you."

How to make travel easier?

Your travel day should actually start before you wake up. Just like meal prepping can set you up for an easy week of eats, travel prepping can ensure your day-of journey goes as smooth as possible. While you can't control flight delays or traffic, there are a few things you can add into your routine.

"Include stress-relief techniques in your plan and feel reassured that you have strategies in place to prevent travel-related anxiety from causing stomach issues," Simpson says. Try our Best Breathing Techniques and Daily Journal Prompts when you have a moment to spare!

"I definitely pack the day before and try to make my carry-on bag really organized (for example, I put all my chargers in a small pouch so that there aren't wires getting tangled, I pack snacks so that I don't have to spend a ton of money at the airport, etc.)," Storck says. "I also download shows or movies on to my iPad beforehand (or pack a good book) — I like having something to look forward to if it's a long flight! Simple things, but they help the day go smoothly."

"I try to plan in advance as much as possible to alleviate travel prep and travel day stress [and] I make a list of items I want to pack on my phone," Tanner says. In addition to packing plenty of snacks that are easy on her stomach, she also figures out what to eat when she gets to her location. "Depending on my flight time, I will pick up a Sweetgreen salad to eat on the plane to keep me satiated and full of greens until I can find my next whole foods meal."

Should I pack anything specific to avoid stomach problems?

It's a good idea to have natural remedies or over the counter medicine in the event you need to ease bloating or discomfort (think antidiarrheals, laxatives, or antacids). "Bring along essentials like enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules or activated charcoal tablets for bloating and discomfort, antacids for heartburn and acid reflux, and magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide supplements if you're prone to constipation," Simpson says.

"You might also want to pack dandelion or fennel tea for digestive support and hydration tablets or powders to prevent dehydration, especially in hot climates," she continues. "Just remember to check in with a healthcare professional before trying any new remedies, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications."

And to make the travel in and of itself more enjoyable, Storck has a few travel must-haves: "Headphones, comfortable clothing (big fan of black leggings, sneakers and a sweater; I'll never be a fancy plane outfit girl) and my water bottle." Tanner's must-haves include a portable phone charger, headphones, eye patches, and sunscreen.

How to eat in moderation on vacation?

We're big fans of Little Treat Culture at Brit + Co, especially if you're somewhere you've never been before. I mean, how could you visit Paris and NOT buy pastries?! Even if you have a sensitive stomach, Simpson says it's okay to indulge — as long as it's in moderation.

"Indulge in local delicacies moderately, savoring each bite and paying attention to your body's hunger and fullness signals," Simpson recommends. "Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your meals to offset any extra calories from treats and to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Also, incorporate physical activities into your plans to burn off any additional calories consumed from indulgences."

"To avoid stomach issues while traveling, steer clear of spicy, fatty, and greasy foods," Simpson continues. "Additionally, limit alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks, and ensure fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed to prevent food-related illnesses. Lastly, maintain regular meal times to prevent overeating and refrain from skipping meals."

If you do deal with the dreaded traveler's stomach (it happens to us all!) swap your fancy meals for a few tried-and-true foods. "If you're dealing with stomach issues while traveling, stick to gentle foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast to soothe discomfort, and steer clear of foods that might worsen your symptoms," Simpson says. "Keep yourself hydrated, take time to rest and recuperate, and try relaxation methods like deep breathing or meditation to ease stress-related digestive problems. If your symptoms persist or become severe, don't hesitate to seek medical help."