Olivia Rodrigo is an American actress who is widely known for her appearance on the 2019 television series “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series.” Throughout the show Rodrigo flaunted her musical talent, leading viewers to recognize her as more than just an actress. On Jan. 8, 2020, about a year after the show came out, Rodrigo released her debut single “Drivers License.” In less than two days, the song has hit number one on the “United States Top 50” playlist on both Spotify and Apple Music. Considering Rodrigo’s abundant success, viewers predict that this track might earn the prestigious Billboard title “song of the year.”

“Drivers License” captures the nostalgic and independent feeling that comes along with a 17 year old getting her drivers license. Yet heartbreak sours the joy of “Drivers License,” as the girl pictured reaching the immense milestone with her ex-boyfriend by her side. Rodrigo writes about driving through the suburbs of Los Angeles, heartbroken and angry, confused about her relationship and if her feelings about her ex were ever genuine and true.

As the melody progresses, Rodrigo’s emotions build. You can hear her pain as she sings, “cause you said forever now I drive alone past your street.”  The heartbreak in “Drivers License” resonates with listeners who have experienced difficult breakups and the loss of a loved one. The lyrics successfully project the emptiness and the confusion in a heartbreak on the listener to feel like they are experiencing it too, adding a new depth to the track. Rodrigo’s thoughts are clearly poured into this song and her tone reflects how real and heavy this weight on her is. Throughout the song, Olivia talks about her ex leaving her for a mystery girl, “you’re probably with that blonde girl, who’s always made me doubt, she’s so much older than me, she’s everything I’m insecure about.”

Rodrigo’s voice is soft and beautiful throughout the song as well as enchantingly crisp. The beat is melancholy and vulnerable but easy to listen to and never seems to get old. This bedroom pop hit clearly shows a true star in the making and has listeners eager for more.

“Drivers License” has the world wondering what the future will bring for Rodrigo, if she will become the next pop sensation. Rodrigo’s songwriting and vocal talents proves it obvious that the song struck a chord with fans. “Drivers License” keeps the unmatchable feeling alive and sweeps you up in the warmth of first love being lost. It has brought a new dimension to love songs today and successfully recognizes the layers of heartbreak, receiving a five out of five rating.