Olivia

Album: Made in the A.M. (2015)
Charted: 72 87
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Harry Styles wrote this tune with frequent collaborators Julian Bunetta and John Ryan. So who is this Olivia that Harry has penned a song about? Could it be Me And Earl And The Dying Girl actress Olivia Cooke, whom he gave a piggyback ride for during 1D's Autumn Term tour video?

    According to Harry the song is "not necessarily" about a girl. "It doesn't have to be so literal," he insisted during One Direction's First Listen Party, adding that it could be about a place or even a feeling.
  • The strings were recorded at London's iconic Abbey Road studio, where The Beatles recorded their albums.
  • The female name Olivia alludes to the olive branch, which is traditionally a symbol of peace or victory and was historically worn by brides and virgins. Other songs with Olive in the title include:

    "Ode To Olivia" by Stella Parton

    "Princess Olivia" by Al Stewart

    "Something Like Olivia" by John Mayer.

Comments: 1

  • OliviaWho sings the intro?
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Sub Pop Founder Bruce Pavitt On How To Create A Music Scene

Sub Pop Founder Bruce Pavitt On How To Create A Music SceneSong Writing

With $50 and a glue stick, Bruce Pavitt created Sub Pop, a fanzine-turned-label that gave the world Nirvana and grunge. He explains how motivated individuals can shift culture.

Gary LeVox

Gary LeVoxSongwriter Interviews

On "Life Is A Highway," his burgeoning solo career, and the Rascal Flatts song he most connects with.

Jack Blades of Night Ranger and Damn Yankees

Jack Blades of Night Ranger and Damn YankeesSongwriter Interviews

Revisit the awesome glory of Night Ranger and Damn Yankees: cheesily-acted videos, catchy guitar licks, long hair, and lyrics that are just plain relatable.

Country Song Titles

Country Song TitlesFact or Fiction

Country songs with titles so bizarre they can't possibly be real... or can they?

Tony Banks of Genesis

Tony Banks of GenesisSongwriter Interviews

Genesis' key-man re-examines his solo career and the early days of music video.

Ralph Casale  - Session Pro

Ralph Casale - Session ProSongwriter Interviews

A top New York studio musician, Ralph played guitar on many '60s hits, including "Lightnin' Strikes," "A Lover's Concerto" and "I Am A Rock."