One of the most exciting shifts in music today is how women are reshaping the sound, identity, and themes of these historically male-dominated genres, blending introspective songwriting with raw, powerful performances. Olivia Rodrigo, girl in red, and The Last Dinner Party are set to share the stage at BTS Hyde Park on 27th June, and are undoubtedly leading the charge, each offering their own unique voice to a generation hungry for musical honesty and rebellion.
At the forefront of this undeniable revolution is the Grammy-award winning singer-songwriter, Olivia Rodrigo. Since the release of her debut album ‘SOUR’, Olivia has quickly become one of the defining artists of her generation. Her blend of pop-punk angst, confessional lyrics, and vulnerable storytelling has resonated across a multitude of ages and continents, with performances confirmed this summer at major UK festivals including BTS Hyde Park and Glastonbury. Olivia’s ability to effortlessly combine catchy hooks with emotionally-charged, gritty guitar-driven tracks has allowed her to bridge the gap between pop, alternative rock, and emo culture, resonating with young fans who see themselves reflected in her pain, anger, and growth. Olivia’s cultural influence goes beyond her music, serving as an anthem for young women finding their voice and power.
Gracing the Great Oak Stage alongside Olivia this summer is girl in red, whose indie pop sound similarly combines vulnerability and defiance. The Norwegian artist has built a loyal fanbase with her deeply personal and queer-positive songs that tackle themes of love, mental health, and identity. Like Olivia, girl in red’s raw lyricism has found a home in the alternative scene, resonating with those who crave authenticity in an era of polished perfection. Her presence at major festivals and her growing fanbase prove that there’s a demand for music that doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths and the messiness of the human condition.
Meanwhile, The Last Dinner Party are breaking new ground with their theatrical and captivating take on rock, and winning Brit awards whilst they’re at it. Their ability to marry vintage rock influences with contemporary alternative pop production is providing the genre with a fresh innovation, all while confronting societal issues and personal narratives. Their boldness, both in music and performance, shows that young women are not just entering the scene—they’re redefining it.
As Olivia Rodrigo prepares for her headlining slot at BST Hyde Park this June, it’s clear that the future of alternative pop and rock belongs to these unapologetic and fearless women. Together, they represent a shift towards a more inclusive and emotionally-driven genre, where the music is personal, the lyrics are powerful, and the themes resonate deeply with a generation that demands more than just surface-level pop. Their music is reshaping what it means to be a young woman in the music industry today, and we’re just getting started.
