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Olivia Rodrigo and Robert Smith Reunite for Surprise Duet at Primavera Sound

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Olivia Rodrigo and Robert Smith Reunite for Surprise Duet at Primavera Sound
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Olivia Rodrigo and Robert Smith Reunite for Surprise Duet at Primavera Sound

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Olivia Rodrigo and Robert Smith, the iconic frontman of The Cure, surprised fans with a duet performance of Rodrigo's song “What’s Wrong With Me?” at the Primavera Sound festival in Barcelona.

This unexpected collaboration marks a significant moment for both artists, especially given Smith's infrequent public co-signs with other musicians.

The song, which shares a title reminiscent of The Cure's melancholic style, is featured on Rodrigo's new album.

The performance at Primavera Sound follows their initial collaboration at England's Glastonbury Festival almost a year prior.

During that appearance, Rodrigo introduced Smith as "probably the best songwriter to come out of England" before they performed The Cure's classics, “Just Like Heaven” and “Friday I’m in Love.” This reunion underscores a unique cross-generational connection between the pop star and the goth rock legend.

Rodrigo has openly expressed how deeply her new music is inspired by The Cure.

She has previously referenced the band in her hit “Drop Dead,” with the line, “You know all the words to ‘Just Like Heaven,’ and I know why he wrote them.” The song “What’s Wrong With Me?” further solidifies this influence, with lyrics that echo themes often explored in Smith's work, such as feelings of sadness and introspection.

For long-time fans of Robert Smith, his willingness to engage in these duets is particularly noteworthy.

Smith is known for being selective with collaborations, making his appearances with Rodrigo a testament to his admiration for her artistry.

His presence at Primavera Sound was also significant as The Cure had headlined the festival the previous day, performing a set that included rarities and hits.

Rodrigo expressed her excitement about the collaboration, telling the Primavera crowd, “It’s my first collaboration!

I am just so proud of it — I can’t believe that this song exists, with the person it exists with.

I’m just so f***ing overwhelmed!” This partnership highlights a mutual respect and shared artistic sensibility between the two musicians, bridging different eras of music.

Source: Rolling Stone

Key points

  • Olivia Rodrigo and Robert Smith performed a surprise duet of Rodrigo's song “What’s Wrong With Me?” at the Primavera Sound festival in Barcelona.
  • This collaboration marks their second public performance together, following their appearance at Glastonbury Festival last summer.
  • Smith's participation in such public collaborations is noted as rare, indicating his respect for Rodrigo as an artist.
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