I got my drivers license last week.
Okay, it was more like 10 years ago, but who’s counting? Well, of course, besides Olivia Rodrigo, who just celebrated the 5 year anniversary of getting her drivers license – and launching herself into pop stardom.
In 2021, “Drivers License” was inescapable. Debuting at #1 on the Billboard Charts, the song played at every store, every radio station, and every TikTok seemingly on loop. Back then, Rodrigo was starring in the hit Disney+ TV show, “High School Musical: The Musical, The Series,” and hadn’t released much music outside of her character’s songs on the show.
After an alleged breakup with co-star Joshua Bassett, Rodrigo wrote and released her first single, “Drivers License,” letting the world in on what would become a massive musical (and gossip) phenomenon. The track, while telling of Olivia’s own heartbreak, led to an album full of speculative songs for fans to dig into, coming to their own conclusion that Rodrigo’s alleged ex may have dated Sabrina Carpenter, also a former Disney darling, within weeks of their breakup. This, of course, only pushed Rodrigo’s album higher on the charts, as fans were dissecting tracks and playing detective, sleuthing for clues and occupying every internet comment section. Olivia’s musical prowess ultimately spoke for itself, however, leading to a sold-out tour and three GRAMMY wins, including Best New Artist. A recent press release stated “Since its release on January 8, 2021, ‘drivers license’ has amassed over 4.7 billion combined global streams and has been certified 6x Platinum by the RIAA. The track spent its first eight weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 – the longest running No. 1 song by a solo artist at the time.”
While many fans noticed a countdown on Rodrigo’s website leading up to the five year anniversary of her hit song, showing an application for renewal of a driver’s license, internet consensus seemed to be that she was announcing a new album and leaving her past eras behind. Unfortunately, no new music was released, but she did take this time to honor her first single. On January 8th, the singer posted a heartfelt tribute to the track that started it all on Instagram. “happy 5 years of drivers license!!! looking back at these pics I feel like I look like a baby but it also feels like just yesterday lol. this song has totally changed my life in ways I still can’t totally wrap my head around. I’m forever grateful for this magical chapter and I can’t wait to scream red lights stop signs with u guys at every concert I play for the rest of my life! happy birthday DL,” she captioned alongside photos of her younger self, a girl unknowing of the force she was about to become in the music industry. Additionally, she released a special pressing of the “drivers license” vinyl, featuring the track as a duet with legendary artist David Byrne.
Well, Olivia, here’s to you. Five years, three GRAMMYS, and one driver’s license. We can’t wait to see what comes next!
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Nicole Speros holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications & Media Studies and is currently diving deeper into the industry at Berklee College of Music, where she’s studying Music Business. A passionate storyteller with an eye for what’s next, Nicole brings a sharp, curious voice to her work as a music journalist. She covers emerging artists, shifting trends, and the ever-evolving intersection of music and media—with a focus on authenticity, accessibility, and the songs that connect us all.
She’s an active member of GRAMMY U/The Recording Academy and Women in Music, always looking for ways to support and amplify voices in the industry. When she’s not in class or writing, you’ll probably find her stage-side at a local Boston show or hopping on a plane for her next adventure.