Sandy from Grease would have a field day shopping with Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan. The two pop stars have raided the '80s wardrobe department for their upcoming 'Expectations' music video, complete with tartan corsets, oversized bows, tutus and a yellow convertible that looks ready for a road trip back in time.
Rodrigo announced the collaboration on Instagram on Tuesday, 13 October, sharing a photograph of herself and Roan perched on the back of a vintage convertible. With their dramatic makeup and contrasting outfits, the duo look like they have very different ideas about the dress code for prom night.
'Beyond excited to announce 'Expectations' featuring Chappell Roan!!! song and video out Thursday!!!!' Rodrigo wrote. The remix of her song from You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love arrives on 15 October alongside a music video directed by Bardia Zeinali. Daniel Nigro, who has worked extensively with both artists, produced the track.
Retro Prom Queen Core
Chappell Roan looks ready to give the Pink Ladies a run for their money in a red-and-black tartan corset, a black tulle skirt dotted with embellishments, and a black hat topped with an enormous red bow. Her signature fiery red hair tumbles over her shoulders, while theatrical eye makeup, dark lipstick and layered jewellery make it clear that this is no attempt at minimalism. The outfit has all the makings of a punk-rock prom queen, although she'd probably insist on rewriting the school's dress code first.
Rodrigo, on the other hand, takes a sweeter approach with a black corseted bodice featuring metallic detailing, and a voluminous white tulle skirt. An oversized pale-pink bow sits atop her glossy dark curls, while rosy makeup and sparkling accessories add a doll-like finish.
Put them together, and you've got two very different prom dates. Roan looks ready to start a little trouble, while Rodrigo could pass for the sweetheart who secretly has the getaway car keys. Either way, both could easily be voted prom queen.
Speaking of cars, their yellow convertible comes with a personalised 'XPECT8NS' number plate, parked in front of a gold tinsel curtain. It's the sort of entrance that would make even Danny Zuko reconsider his ride. The photograph gives fans their first look at the collaboration's retro styling, although the full music video wardrobe remains under wraps until the clock hits the release time.
Katy Perry Has 'High Expectations' and Fans Agree
The announcement sent fans into a frenzy, and Katy Perry wasted no time joining the excitement with a pun worthy of the song's title. 'I have high expectations. ♥️' Perry commented beneath Rodrigo's Instagram post.
Producer Dan Nigro added, 'She does remixes now!!!', while MTV chimed in with 'YES YES YES'. Another Instagram user called it 'the collab we've all been waiting for!!', while LiviesHQ declared it 'the collab of all collabs'.
Others were particularly thrilled about getting a music video. 'MUSIC VIDEO TOO WE WON', wrote a different fan in palpable caps-lock enthusiasm. With that much excitement before the song even arrives, the two singers have certainly set themselves a high bar. Fortunately, they've already dressed for the occasion.
From Tourmates to Pop Music's Newest Double Act
Rodrigo and Roan have plenty of history together. Both have worked closely with producer Nigro, while Roan previously contributed backing vocals to Rodrigo's music and joined her as a supporting act on tour. The two also performed together at Rodrigo's Daisy Chain Fields festival in California, making their latest collaboration a natural next chapter in their musical friendship.
The new 'Expectations' remix marks Roan's first officially credited guest feature on another artist's track. Fans can also pick up the release in physical formats, including vinyl, CD, and cassette. Apparently, the retro obsession doesn't end with the clothes. Even the music is getting its own old-school wardrobe. As for what else the music video has in store, Rodrigo and Roan are probably keeping the surprises tucked beneath all that glitter and tulle.
