Olivia Rodrigo Celebrates ‘License’ Anniversary with David Byrne Cover Release

Olivia Rodrigo marks the fifth anniversary of her hit “drivers license” with a fresh cover by David Byrne, sparking nostalgic vibes and fan excitement.

A Special Tribute to a Breakthrough Hit

Can you believe it’s been five years since Olivia Rodrigo’s “drivers license” took the world by storm? Time flies when you’re rewriting pop history! To honor this milestone, Olivia just dropped a brand-new cover of the track—performed by none other than David Byrne, the legendary Talking Heads frontman and her collaborator. This cover isn’t just a one-off treat; it kicks off a series of covers celebrating the upcoming fifth anniversary of Olivia’s debut album, SOUR.

Olivia Rodrigo and David Byrne sharing the stage at Governors Ball, 2025

Byrne’s unique spin on “license” is now available on all digital streaming platforms and can be pre-ordered on a gorgeous translucent seven-inch ruby vinyl. For vinyl enthusiasts, this is a gem! The B-side of this collectible features a memorable moment from last summer when Byrne unexpectedly joined Olivia on stage at Governors Ball to perform the Talking Heads classic “Burning Down the House.” Talk about a surprise collaboration that fans still rave about!

The Vinyl and Live Versions for the Die-Hard Fans

Of course, Olivia and her team haven’t forgotten about collectors and die-hard fans craving something extra. There’s a Target-exclusive vinyl that pairs the original “drivers license” track with a live rendition from that very Governors Ball set where Byrne made his surprise appearance. This package beautifully captures the magic of the moment, giving fans a way to relive that electrifying live energy.

A History of Epic Collaborations

This isn’t Olivia’s first rodeo when it comes to sharing the stage with musical legends. Over the years, she’s performed alongside some of her idols, including a memorable duet with Billy Joel in 2022 at New York’s Madison Square Garden. She also rocked out with No Doubt during their reunion at Coachella 2024. And let’s not forget her GUTS tour, which featured the ’90s alternative rock legends the Breeders as opening acts—a perfect nod to her indie influences.

David Byrne himself has shared some sweet words about Olivia. After meeting her following a Madison Square Garden show, Byrne described her as “a great performer” who was clearly having a blast on stage. He admired how she handled fame and pressure growing up in the spotlight, emphasizing her authenticity and resilience in a tough industry.

“Great performer. She was having a really good time. I got introduced to her afterwards and she seemed like a real person. Growing up in the world she did, she survived it really well and handled it really well.” — David Byrne

Why ‘drivers license’ Still Resonates Today

Reflecting on “drivers license” is like flipping through a very personal diary of heartbreak and youthful longing. Olivia captured that bittersweet adolescent heartbreak with such raw honesty that it felt like the anthem of a generation overnight. Coupled with David Byrne’s fresh cover, it’s a reminder of how timeless and emotionally potent a great song can be.

If you’re curious about where Olivia ranks among music’s greats, you might enjoy perusing some of the all-time rock legends lists. It’s always fascinating to see how artists like Olivia are carving their place alongside giants.

FAQ

• How can I listen to David Byrne’s cover of “drivers license”?
  It’s available on all major digital streaming platforms and can be pre-ordered on collectible translucent ruby vinyl.
• What’s special about the vinyl releases for “drivers license”?
  There’s a translucent seven-inch ruby vinyl with Byrne’s cover and a B-side featuring his live collaboration with Olivia. Target offers an exclusive vinyl with the original track and a live version from Governors Ball.
• Has Olivia Rodrigo performed with other famous musicians?
  Yes! She’s shared stages with Billy Joel, No Doubt, and featured the Breeders as openers on her GUTS tour.
• What did David Byrne say about Olivia Rodrigo?
  He praised her as a great performer who remains authentic and resilient despite her rapid rise to fame.
• How has “drivers license” impacted pop culture?
  The song became an instant generational anthem for heartbreak, showcasing Olivia’s storytelling prowess and emotional depth.

Feeling inspired by Olivia’s journey and the timeless appeal of “drivers license”? Celebrate your favorite moments by shopping for iconic album cover posters at our store. Perfect for any music lover’s wall! Browse our collection here.