In the world of music, the pressure to follow up a successful debut album can be immense. Olivia Rodrigo, the Grammy Award-winning artist behind the hit album "Sour," knows this all too well. As she gears up for the release of her sophomore album "GUTS," Rodrigo opens up about the challenges she faced, the self-imposed pressures, and the emotional rollercoaster that came with creating new music.

The journey from "Sour" to "GUTS" was not without its hurdles. "There were a good few months where I would sit at the piano and all I would think about was how I was never going to make something as good," Rodrigo confessed in a candid interview with The Guardian. The weight of expectations, combined with the scrutiny of social media, took a toll on the young artist. She revealed, "I've experienced a lot of emotional turmoil over having all these feelings of rage and dissatisfaction that I felt like I couldn't express, especially in my job."

The process of creating "GUTS" was marked by moments of self-doubt and anxiety. Rodrigo, known for her raw and personal songwriting, admitted that she felt immense pressure to write perfect songs. This pressure was exacerbated when she began working in a new studio. "Like: 'Oh my God, we're spending thousands of dollars and I feel like I'm not writing anything good.' Some days, she just went in and cried," she shared.

However, despite the challenges, Rodrigo's dedication to her craft and her passion for music shone through. The first single off "GUTS," titled "Vampire," was met with overwhelming acclaim from fans and critics alike. The song's success solidified Rodrigo's position in the music industry, earning her a significant milestone: she is now the first female artist with the most No. 1 songs in the decade. This achievement adds to her growing list of chart-toppers, including hits like "Drivers License" and "Good 4 U."

Rodrigo's journey from her debut to her sophomore album is a testament to the resilience and determination of artists in the face of adversity. While the road to "GUTS" was paved with moments of doubt and emotional turmoil, Rodrigo's unwavering commitment to her artistry ensured that she emerged stronger, setting new records and continuing to captivate audiences worldwide.

As fans eagerly await the full release of "GUTS," one thing is clear: Olivia Rodrigo's star continues to rise, and her music remains a beacon of authenticity and raw emotion in an industry often characterized by fleeting trends.