Lizzie McGuire may have been an outfit repeater, but I’m a Hilary Duff rememberer. There was nothing better than sitting in front of the tv on my living room floor, watching Lizzie and her cartoon mini-me deliver an inner monologue as I dreamed about my own teenage years.
Now imagine the same cartoon, but raunchier – swap out crushes for crushed emotions and simpler days for steamy soundbites. That’s what Hilary Duff delivers with her sixth studio album, “luck…or something.”
The title is a direct reflection on her time growing up in the industry; “I constantly get asked how I still have my head on straight after growing up in this industry. The album title is my way of answering that question, which felt right for a record that’s about where I’ve landed and all the things I’ve been through along the way,” said Duff in a recent press release.
In her first release since “Breathe In. Breathe Out.” in 2015, Duff delivers a performance more authentic than ever – accompanied by her GRAMMY-nominated producer husband, Matthew Koma. Songs like “Tell Me That Won’t Happen” discuss fears around their relationship standing the test of time amongst a rapidly-changing emotional landscape – will they ever want something new? Will boredom inevitably creep in? It’s a common occurrence in long-term relationships to worry and wonder, but something tells me that if Koma and Duff’s relationship is as honest and authentic as the track is, they’ll be just fine.
“We Don’t Talk” strikes a different emotional chord, allegedly focusing on Duff’s falling out with her sister, Haylie. “And if it’s cause you’re jealous, God knows I would sell it all, then break you off the bigger half, ‘cause we come from the same home, same blood” delivers Duff, sending a love letter to her sister for the world to see. As far as sibling sentiment goes, I’d say this is a pretty good way to extend the proverbial olive branch.
My favorite track on the album, though? “Weather For Tennis.” The opening track covers Duff’s childhood trauma of parental divorce and the emotional turmoil that bleeds into adult relationships as a result. “Keep the peace, cause I’m a kid of divorce, and you’re the starter of wars, and there’s no winning in yours,” she sings, preceding the undeniably catchy chorus. “If it ain’t the weather for tennis I guess we can argue until dinner time, you calling me batshit’s the fastest antibiotic for thinking you’re different this time.”
There’s something heartwarming about an artist who can bridge the gap between childhood and adulthood, not just for herself, but for her fans; she never wavered from who she is. Duff grew up alongside us, experiencing heartache, divorce, childbirth, and trauma in lock step with our own. Artists like Duff make it feel like we can be kids again, heard, seen, & understood – but this time, all grown up.
Featured Photo Credit: Alfred Marroquin
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.