When Olivia Rodrigo took the stage at Primavera Sound for a surprise popup set, she didn’t just perform—she made a statement. The debut of her new collaboration with Robert Smith of The Cure, titled what’s wrong with me, wasn’t just a musical moment; it was a cultural one. Personally, I think this pairing is a masterclass in bridging generational gaps in music. Rodrigo, the Gen Z pop sensation, and Smith, the iconic post-punk legend, aren’t just collaborating—they’re redefining what it means to cross genres and eras. What makes this particularly fascinating is how seamlessly their styles merge, creating something that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
One thing that immediately stands out is the song’s title, what’s wrong with me, which feels like a direct nod to Rodrigo’s knack for raw, introspective lyrics. From my perspective, this track is more than just a collaboration; it’s a reflection of Rodrigo’s evolution as an artist. Her ability to dive into vulnerability while still crafting catchy melodies is what sets her apart. And let’s not forget the irony of the song’s title—it’s almost as if she’s asking the audience to question their own perceptions of her, especially with an album titled you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love. What this really suggests is that Rodrigo is leaning into complexity, both in her music and her public persona.
The backstory of this collaboration is just as intriguing. Rodrigo and Smith’s friendship, which began with a Glastonbury performance in 2025, has blossomed into something genuinely creative. What many people don’t realize is how rare it is for artists from such different generations to connect on this level. Smith’s admiration for Rodrigo’s work—despite it not being ‘aimed at his demographic’—speaks volumes about her universal appeal. If you take a step back and think about it, this partnership is a testament to the power of music to transcend age, genre, and even cultural boundaries.
But let’s talk about the broader implications here. Rodrigo’s decision to collaborate with Smith isn’t just a strategic move to appeal to older fans; it’s a bold artistic choice. In my opinion, she’s positioning herself as an artist who refuses to be boxed in. Her upcoming album already feels like a departure from her earlier work, with tracks like drop dead and the cure showcasing a darker, more introspective tone. This raises a deeper question: Is Rodrigo intentionally shedding her ‘teen pop star’ image, or is she simply growing into a more complex artist?
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Rodrigo’s live performances have become a platform for these new sounds. Her Primavera Sound set, which included both new tracks and fan favorites like bad idea right? and good 4 u, felt like a deliberate blend of old and new. It’s as if she’s saying, ‘This is who I was, and this is who I’m becoming.’ From my perspective, this kind of artistic evolution is rare in today’s music industry, where artists often feel pressured to stick to a formula.
Looking ahead, I can’t help but wonder what this collaboration means for both Rodrigo and Smith. Will it open the door for more cross-generational partnerships? Or will it remain a unique moment in music history? One thing’s for sure: Rodrigo’s Unraveled Tour starting in September will be a litmus test for how fans receive this new direction. Personally, I’m excited to see how she continues to push boundaries—both musically and culturally.
In the end, what’s wrong with me isn’t just a song; it’s a statement. It’s Olivia Rodrigo saying, ‘I’m not just a pop star—I’m an artist.’ And in a world where music often feels disposable, that’s a message worth listening to.
