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Sour (album)

Sour is the debut studio album by American singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Sour is the debut studio album by American singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo. It was released on May 21, 2021, through Geffen Records. The album was written by Rodrigo and producer Dan Nigro, and was originally planned as an EP before being expanded after the success of the single 'Drivers License'.

Background

Sour began as an EP concept but was expanded after the success of 'Drivers License'. Rodrigo and Dan Nigro wrote the album, which drew on Rodrigo’s influences and personal songwriting style.

Music and themes

The album is primarily pop, with notable alternative pop, bedroom pop, pop rock, and teen pop elements. Its songs explore adolescent emotions, heartbreak, and personal reflection.

Release and reception

Sour was released by Geffen Records on May 21, 2021. It received strong commercial attention and became one of Rodrigo’s defining releases.

Track listing and format

The standard edition contains 11 tracks and runs for 34:41. The album was issued in physical and digital formats.

Key facts

  • Sour is Olivia Rodrigo’s debut studio album.
  • It was released on May 21, 2021, by Geffen Records.
  • The album was written by Rodrigo and Dan Nigro.
  • It was originally planned as an EP before being expanded into a full album.
  • The album was shaped by the success of Rodrigo’s single 'Drivers License'.
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Canadian context

Sour was widely available in Canada through major music retailers and streaming services, and Olivia Rodrigo has had strong popularity with Canadian audiences.

Frequently asked questions

What is Sour by Olivia Rodrigo?
Sour is Olivia Rodrigo’s debut studio album, released in 2021.
When was Sour released?
It was released on May 21, 2021.
Who wrote Sour?
The album was written by Olivia Rodrigo and producer Dan Nigro.
What genre is Sour?
It is mainly pop, with alternative pop, bedroom pop, pop rock, and teen pop influences.
How many tracks are on Sour?
The standard album has 11 tracks.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sour_(album)
    Supports: Release date, debut studio album status, writers, label, and genre overview.
  2. Wikipedia — https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sour_(Album)
    Supports: Release date, label, length, track count, and production credit.
  3. Rolling Stone — https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-album-reviews/olivia-rodrigo-sour-review-1170714/
    Supports: Critical context and album framing as Rodrigo's debut pop statement.
  4. Apple Music — https://music.apple.com/us/album/sour/1560735414
    Supports: Album description, debut-full-length context, and stylistic references.
  5. Genius — https://genius.com/albums/Olivia-rodrigo/Sour
    Supports: Debut album status, expansion from EP, chart debut, and Grammy recognition.