Singers Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan released a remix of Rodrigo’s song “expectations,” on Thursday, Oct. 15.
The arrival of “expectations” was announced only two days in advance of its release. This song was originally released in June, as part of Rodrigo’s third studio album “you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love.” The release also marks Roan’s first release of the year and is the first official collaboration between Rodrigo and Roan.
As a whole, “you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love” combines emotion with breathtaking melodies. It predominantly features sad love songs, and a lot of it was inspired by the undercurrents of fear and longing that Rodrigo has experienced. According to Rolling Stone, the TV show “Sex and the City” also provided some influence.
The original “expectations” is a 1980s-style synth-pop anthem and the perfect track to play with friends after a breakup. It describes the relatable experience of being blinded by someone who has nothing to offer, and learning from that. It provides a sense of catharsis and the idea that the end of a relationship really provides a period for one to figure out what they really want.
With the remix also came a new music video and even more hard-hitting lyrics. The music video takes inspiration from vintage TV game shows, with playful references to some popular ones. They recruit David Byrne of the Talking Heads to play the role of a fictional presenter. The game show interrupts the song at various points to offer brief and witty commentary that keeps viewers engaged. Rodrigo and Roan are contestants and switch up to play the roles of multiple characters in the video, with outfit changes in between. The video is an ode to the extravagant maximalism of the ‘80s era, shown through the over-the-top expressive prints and colors showcased throughout.
Roan’s added verses provide new lyrics that contribute to the relatability of the original. She also expresses her frustrations with dating culture and being with someone who isn’t worth the hassle. Roan comes in on the second verse, swapping the subject from being a flaky man to a woman who takes her on a date and then proceeds to ghost her, introducing a queer dating perspective as well.
Rodrigo and Roan have held a connection over the years, with a long history working together. Roan opened shows on Rodrigo’s first 2022 tour for “SOUR,” and experienced a surge in popularity after opening for early shows of Rodrigo’s “GUTS” tour in 2024, joining her again later in her tour to perform the song “HOT TO GO!” She also sang backup on two of Rodrigo’s songs, “lacy” and “obsessed” from “GUTS.”
The “expectations” remix not only highlights an impactful work relationship, but also a friendship built through a bond of shared experiences in both their professional and personal lives.