Pop artist Olivia O’Brien continues to captivate fans with her latest release, everywhere i go, there i am. Released on November 15, 2024, this EP marks a turning point in O’Brien’s artistry, showcasing a deep dive into themes of mental health, personal struggles, and emotional growth.
The five-track collection stands out as one of her most intimate and reflective works to date, offering listeners a raw perspective on her inner world. As I speak with Olivia, it’s clear that she values staying true to herself while making her music.
She shares that the title is actually a saying she learned from her sister. Something that stuck with her as a reminder to stay present and that you can’t run from who you are.
Ironically, it’s also the title of a very popular self-help book detailing mental health. Which is perfect for the raw honesty and vulnerability for the EP itself.
The EP touches on deeply personal and observational themes, as O’Brien draws inspiration from her own experiences and those around her. Tracks like “lower” and “all the time” explore the impact of mental health challenges and the struggles of self-awareness.
For instance, “all the time” started as a poem reflecting on the dangers of addictive behaviors, inspired by O’Brien’s family history with addiction. In interviews, she candidly discussed her own journey of sobriety and self-discovery, sharing how she navigated a lifestyle dominated by drinking and partying to better understand her emotional needs.
“I wrote “all the time” originally as a poem about how quickly a seemingly inconsequential bad habit can turn into a harmful addiction. From drugs and alcohol to eating disorders, I can’t even begin to count the number of times I have watched friends and family members tell me that they, “don’t do it all the time” or “it’s just this once.” It never is. We lie to ourselves to justify our vices because they make us feel good for a moment. People go to great lengths to hide the truth… not just from others, but from themselves. I worry all the time (no pun intended) that I, myself, will slip into these patterns if I am not careful. This song serves as a reminder.”
One of the standout elements of the EP is its honesty and vulnerability. In interviews, she candidly discussed her own journey of sobriety and self-discovery, sharing how she navigated a lifestyle dominated by drinking and partying to better understand her emotional needs.
“It wasn’t easy, but those struggles shaped me,” she said. “Now, I feel more grounded, and this EP is a reflection of that growth.”
O’Brien describes the project as a journey into the parts of herself she once kept hidden, aiming to connect with fans on a deeper level. Songs like “lower” encapsulate some of her darkest moments, providing an outlet for emotions she says she once struggled to articulate.
Collaborating with Jackson Phillips of Daywave, O’Brien found renewed creative energy, blending her signature pop sound with a more introspective tone.
“He created a space where I felt comfortable being completely vulnerable.” She shares.
Fans and critics have responded positively to this evolution in her music. The EP has been praised for its lyrical depth and relatability, as O’Brien addresses universal themes of self-doubt, resilience, and personal transformation.
Her ability to weave personal anecdotes into her music resonates with listeners who see themselves in her struggles and triumphs.
This release follows her earlier 2024 project, love & limerence, showcasing O’Brien’s prolific output this year.
The contrast between the two projects highlights her versatility as an artist: while love & limerence leaned more into themes of romance and desire, everywhere i go, there i am delves into self-reflection and healing.
Together, they paint a fuller picture of O’Brien’s growth as both a person and an artist who has grown up in the public eye. O’Brien’s journey from her teenage years in Los Angeles to her current career has been marked by self-discovery and artistic evolution.
“Now, I feel more grounded, and this EP is a reflection of that growth.”
Reflecting on her decision to move to L.A. at just 16 years old, she has spoken about the challenges of navigating the music industry while still figuring out her own identity.
Now, with a body of work that feels more authentic than ever, she’s using her platform to connect with fans on topics that matter to her, from mental health to self-acceptance.
everywhere i go, there i am is a significant milestone in Olivia O’Brien’s career, offering a testament to her resilience as an artist and person. You can listen to the album here:
As she continues to evolve as an artist, her willingness to embrace vulnerability and share her story promises to keep her fans deeply invested in her journey. Whether you’re a long-time listener or new to her music, this EP is a poignant reminder of the power of honesty in art.