Music has always been a way for artists to share their stories. These stories let us dive into a whole new world that is created through these songs. As 2021 came with a lot of hardships, good music lets us briefly escape our harsh reality. These current albums were not sugar coated but rather authentic and relatable. The three albums below stood out above the rest, as their themes of love and loss create a story to be remembered. 

Olivia Rodrigo- “Sour”

Immediately when I looked over the plethora of albums released this year, my first thought was “Sour” by Olivia Rodrigo. 

Before the debut of the album May 21, Rodrigo released the single “Drivers License” Jan. 8. As someone who isn’t a huge fan of pop music, I was skeptical about all the good reviews. However, I was very pleasantly surprised. Instead of the superficial lyrics in pop music, Rodrigo expressed vulnerability in her lyrics. It was clear that Olivia Rodrigo was starting a new era of pop music, especially in her audience of teenagers. 

After the release of  “Sour,” I only became more impressed with her work. The album included a total of 11 tracks, exploring feelings of heartbreak, envy and insecurity. Rodrigo creates a space to delve into bitter feelings that resonate with many of us. “Sour” was a breath of fresh air that came just when we needed it most. If you don’t already have the album on repeat, it’s definitely worth a listen. 

Highlights: “jealousy, jealousy,” “deja vu”

Tyler, The Creator- “CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST”

It’s no surprise that Tyler, The Creator created another hit album. 

Already having a big name in alternative hip-hop and rap, many had been anticipating a new work from him. The album debuted June 25, with a boastful and lavish tone. Tyler, The Creator takes on the new identity of “Tyler Baudelaire” as he expresses a life of riches and luxury. 

However, if you know Tyler, The Creator, you know that many of his songs have mature and vulnerable themes. His album also discusses racial injustice, romance and loss. Tyler, The Creator’s album features a variety of other artists, such as Lil Wayne, Lil Uzi Vert and DAISYWORLD. “CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST” is a truly brilliant album, with every song living up to its well deserved hype. 

Highlights: “WILSHIRE,” “RISE!” “SWEET/ I THOUGHT YOU WANTED TO DANCE”

Adele-“30”

After Adele’s first album release in 2008, she is back with another exceptional album. ‘30’ debuted Nov. 19 and features a total of 12 songs. In this album, Adele illustrates her struggles with divorce, motherhood and romance. 

Each song paints its own story in her go-to pop soul technique. This album differs from her previous works, as she shows her growth not only as a musician, but also as a person. ‘30’ shows a journey of  recovery that is truly inspiring, especially in time for the new year. Even five years after her latest album, Adele reclaims her spotlight once again.

Highlights: “Oh My God,” “Easy On Me,” “All Night Parking Interlude”