British music fans are embracing a unique cross-generational collaboration as pop superstar Olivia Rodrigo and The Cure's iconic frontman Robert Smith have officially released their new song, 'What's Wrong With Me'. The track, a 'breezy heartbreaker' as described by Rodrigo, marks her first-ever collaboration on an original song and is a highlight of her newly launched third album, 'You Seem Pretty Sad For A Girl So In Love', which debuted today, Friday, June 12.
The duo first surprised audiences by performing the song during Rodrigo's unexpected set at Primavera Sound in Barcelona last weekend. This live premiere followed earlier studio sessions that Smith had hinted at, subsequent to his memorable appearance during Rodrigo's headline performance at Glastonbury 2025. At that time, Rodrigo lauded Smith as 'perhaps the greatest songwriter to come out of England' and a 'personal hero'.
The lyrics of 'What's Wrong With Me' delve into the emotional turmoil of an unhealthy relationship. Rodrigo and Smith harmonise on the melancholic chorus, singing: 'Went to the doctor and she said I was fine / But every movie that I see makes me cry / It’s like somebody put a weight on my chest / I should talk to a friend / But I can’t get out of bed.' Smith also contributes a solo verse, reflecting on the struggle to overcome persistent negative feelings.
Rodrigo has characterised her new album as 'experimental' and a collection of 'sad love songs', exploring themes of 'jealousy' and 'longing' from her first 'big girl relationship'. The album also includes previously released singles 'Drop Dead' and 'The Cure'. Following the album's release, Rodrigo is set to embark on her extensive 'Unraveled Tour', with UK dates including multiple shows at The O2 in London, where additional performances have been added due to significant public demand. Support acts for the tour will feature British bands Wolf Alice and The Last Dinner Party.
The collaboration highlights Rodrigo's deep appreciation for British music, having previously spoken about attending The Cure and Depeche Mode concerts with her father and her 'diving deeper into The Cure's discography'. Smith, meanwhile, has been busy with The Cure's own European and UK summer tour, which kicked off at Primavera Sound and includes stops at the Isle of Wight Festival, Manchester's Wythenshawe Park, and Edinburgh Summer Sessions. He has also confirmed that a new Cure album is 'done', with another 'poppy' record potentially on the horizon.
Fans in the UK can listen to 'What's Wrong With Me' and the full album 'You Seem Pretty Sad For A Girl So In Love' on major streaming platforms. Tickets for Olivia Rodrigo's 'Unraveled Tour' UK dates are available via official ticketing channels.