Billie Eilish’s third studio album delves into themes of perception, celebrity, and personal growth, combining her electro-goth sound with new emotional depth and structural experimentation. The album, which includes tracks addressing public scrutiny, romantic desires, and love triangles, marks a matured and adventurous musical direction for the 22-year-old pop star.
Billie Eilish released her third studio album, “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” on May 17, 2024. At 22, Eilish has been a major figure in pop music since her breakout at age 13 with “Ocean Eyes.” The new album explores themes of perception and celebrity, a continuation from her 2021 album, “Happier Than Ever.”
The album opens with “Skinny,” addressing public scrutiny about her weight. It proceeds with tracks like “Lunch,” a song about her romantic desires for women, and “Wildflower,” detailing a love triangle. The album blends her signature electro-goth sound with new emotional depth and structural experimentation, featuring contributions from their touring drummer and the Attacca string quartet.
The “Lunch” music video premiered on the same day, showcasing Eilish in 90s attire and multiple vibrant backdrops. Fans quickly labeled the song a “lesbian anthem,” celebrating Eilish’s candid expression of her sexuality. This theme is echoed in Eilish’s previous comments about her attraction to women, revealed last year.
Eilish’s storytelling in “Hit Me Hard and Soft” reflects on her personal growth and the complexities of fame, illustrating a matured and adventurous musical direction.
