Pop Superstar Credits 90s Icon for Career Foundation

Pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo recently offered high praise to Melissa Auf der Maur, the former bassist for the iconic 1990s band Hole. Rodrigo directly credited Auf der Maur and the group for paving the way for her own success in the music industry.

This significant acknowledgment occurred during a backstage meeting when Auf der Maur brought her daughter to see Rodrigo's performance. Auf der Maur, who played bass in Hole from 1994 to 1999, shared the touching exchange.

A Life-Affirming Backstage Moment

Auf der Maur recounted the experience while discussing the visibility of Hole's influence on contemporary music. She had secured tickets for her daughter's 13th birthday celebration to attend the show.

During their meeting, Rodrigo looked at Auf der Maur's daughter and stated emphatically, "Without your mother, none of this would have happened." Auf der Maur noted that this moment solidified for her the direct lineage between her work and Rodrigo's current success.

Hole's Enduring Influence on Modern Pop

Rodrigo has consistently cited 90s and early 2000s female artists as major inspirations for her musical style. Her list of influences includes figures like Alanis Morissette, Avril Lavigne, Lorde, Taylor Swift, Fiona Apple, and Paramore's Hayley Williams.

Furthermore, Rodrigo has cited The Smashing Pumpkins, where Auf der Maur also played from 1999 to 2007, and Fleetwood Mac. Critics have noted that Rodrigo's debut album, Sour, exhibits a distinct 90s influence in both its production and songwriting.

Visual Nods and Mutual Respect

The visual aesthetic of Sour also included a direct homage to Hole's seminal album, Live Through This, featuring a beauty queen motif. Auf der Maur expressed immense pride in hearing Rodrigo's words spoken directly to her daughter.

This mutual admiration is further evidenced by past social media interactions. Rodrigo once responded to Courtney Love regarding an Instagram post by commenting, "love u and live through this sooooo much," showing deep respect for Hole's catalog.