COLUMN: Demi Lovato’s “Revamped” is a rock revival of classic hits

Demi Lovato’s ninth studio album, Revamped, is a refreshing rock version of their classic hits. This marks Lovato’s debut on re-recorded albums, prompting nostalgic fans to shake their heads in unison.

In August 2022, Lovato released “Holy Fvck” with original punk rock songs, marking a departure from their Disney pop star image. “Revamped” further cements Lovato’s evolution into the rock genre.

In a video posted to their TikTok account in September. On February 15, Lovato said, “This is for my Lovatics, my fans who have been with me since I first recorded these songs years ago, and now that they’re rock songs, I hope you love them just as much.” strongly, just like me.”

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The album consists of 10 tracks taken from Lovato’s earlier albums. Like Taylor Swift, who adds a “Taylor’s Version” after every song on her re-recorded albums, Lovato’s Revamped album adds a “Rock Version” tag to each track.

However, even without these labels, it is unmistakably clear to any listener that this is a full-fledged rock album.

The album opens with the powerful song “Heart Attack.” Streamed over 24 million times on Spotify, the song sets the punk tone for the rest of the album. Originally released as part of 2013’s Demi, the track now features furious electric guitars, powerful drums and soaring vocals.

At the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, Lovato performed “Heart Attack” live as the first anthem in the medley of songs featured on “Revamped.” They also sang “Sorry Not Sorry” and “Cool For The Summer” as fire and smoke machines roared from the stage.

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A re-recording of Lovato’s “Sorry Not Sorry” featuring Guns N’ Roses lead guitarist Slash begins with short, staccato drums and a guitar intro as Lovato sings. A hair-raising voice shouts, “Wait a minute!” in the background.

When Lovato gets to the chorus, the themes of revenge and confidence come to life as they wail, “Feeling inspired ’cause the tide has turned / Yeah, I’m on fire and I know it’s burning.”

Following the bridge, Slash delivers a rousing guitar solo, setting the stage for the song’s final climax.

The album also features “Tell Me You Love Me”, the title track of Lovato’s 2017 album. The track starts off slow, featuring only Lovato’s vocals and electric guitar, making the lyrics feel more raw. As the song progresses, there is a strong flow of vocals and instrumentation, turning Lovato’s vulnerability into strength.

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Lovato’s next track on the album pays homage to their hit “Neon Lights.” In a TikTok post, Lovato stated that the song became one of their favorites after it was re-recorded. Lovato admitted that he felt tired from performing the song previously, but has since developed a renewed love for performing it live.

Compared to the other tracks, “Neon Lights” is more reminiscent of pop music. However, the intense drum beat and collaboration with rock band The Maine definitely add a vibrant new flavor to the song.

In contrast to the intense rock songs, Lovato’s new version of “Skyscraper” features a stripped-down, slower melody that adds to the track’s emotional intensity. Lovato’s vocals blend beautifully with the organ and guitar, reminiscent of the original 2011 version from their “Unbroken” album.

“Don’t Forget,” the title track from Lovato’s 2008 debut studio album, closes “Revamped.” Lovato’s vocals are accompanied by soft synths and drums, forming a monumental zenith of rock.

As Lovato closes out “Revamped,” the softness returns, ending with just piano and Lovato’s emotional vocals.

Overall, Lovato’s new take on their old hits showcases their multi-talents as musicians. “Revamped” serves as a testament to Lovato’s creative growth and their ongoing exploration of the rock genre.