Olivia Rodrigo’s much-anticipated return to Austin on February 28, 2024, at the Moody Center was simply spectacular! With the GUTS World Tour in full swing, Rodrigo showcased her evolution as an artist, delivering a show that was as emotionally charged as it was electrifying. This was her fourth stop on the tour, and it was clear that both Rodrigo and her fans were in for a memorable night.
The energy in the Moody Center was charged from the moment the lights dimmed, and the first notes of “bad idea right?” echoed through the arena. Rodrigo, who has effortlessly transitioned from Disney Channel star to pop sensation, commanded the stage with a confidence that belied her age. The extended outro of the opening track set the tone for the night, blending her raw, angsty energy with a polished, theatrical performance style.
The setlist, which included every track from her sophomore album GUTS, peppered with fan favorites from her debut album SOUR, was a carefully curated journey through the highs and lows of teenage life. Rodrigo’s performance of “drivers license,” accompanied by just a piano, was a standout moment. The arena was awash in purple light, and the nostalgic melody resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom had undoubtedly sung along to this very song during the height of the pandemic.
Another highlight was Rodrigo’s performance on a floating crescent moon, where she delivered emotional renditions of “logical” and “enough for you.” Suspended above the crowd, with stars twinkling around her, Rodrigo created a dreamy, almost ethereal atmosphere. This segment of the show not only showcased her vocal prowess but also her ability to connect with the audience on an intimate level, even in such a large venue.
The energy ramped back up with tracks like “brutal” and “obsessed,” the latter of which was particularly noteworthy. Performed atop a transparent stage that offered a unique bottom-up view of the singer, “obsessed” embodied Rodrigo’s transformation from a relatable teen to a pop icon unafraid to embrace her edgier side. The visual elements, including the Y2K-themed graphics and the dance routines, added to the spectacle, making it clear that Rodrigo’s concerts are as much about the experience as they are about the music.
Rodrigo also didn’t shy away from making statements with her lyrics. During the performance of “all-american bitch,” she delivered the originally censored line “perfect all-American tits” with unapologetic conviction, drawing cheers from the audience. It was a moment that underscored her break from her Disney past and her embrace of a more mature, honest identity.
The night concluded with an electrifying encore featuring “good 4 u” and “get him back!” Rodrigo’s use of a megaphone during the latter added a rebellious flair, and the release of star-shaped confetti over the crowd brought the show to a joyous, chaotic close. Fans left the Moody Center with a sense of having witnessed something special—a performance by an artist who is firmly in control of her narrative and her future.
Opening for Rodrigo was Chappell Roan, who delivered a strong set that perfectly complemented the main act. Roan’s infectious energy and catchy pop tunes warmed up the crowd and set the stage for Rodrigo’s explosive entrance. Her performance, marked by bold fashion choices and powerful vocals, indicated that she is an artist to watch in her own right.
Olivia Rodrigo’s Austin stop on the GUTS World Tour was a testament to her growing stature in the music industry. With a mix of vulnerability, defiance, and raw talent, Rodrigo has solidified her place as one of the most compelling voices of her generation.
Set List
- bad idea right?
- ballad of a homeschooled girl
- vampire
- traitor
- drivers license
- teenage dream
- pretty isn’t pretty
- love is embarrassing
- making the bed
- logical
- enough for you
- lacy
- jealousy, jealousy
- happier
- favorite crime
- deja vu
- the grudge
- brutal
- obsessed
- all-american bitch
Encore:
- good 4 u
- get him back!
