The unexpected collaboration featuring Robert Smith of The Cure during Olivia Rodrigo’s set at Glastonbury 2025 has generated enthusiastic reactions from both fans and critics. However, no one exhibited more heartfelt emotion than Rodrigo’s talented guitarist, Arianna Powell.

In a recent interview with Guitar World, Arianna Powell vividly described the unforgettable moment when she learned that Robert Smith would be joining them onstage for exciting duets of classic tracks like The Cure’s “Friday I’m in Love” and “Just Like Heaven” at the iconic Worthy Farm last month. This news was not just another performance; it was a dream come true for Powell, who has long admired Smith’s artistry.

“We discovered this incredible news while in Nashville during our rehearsals for Bonnaroo, which ultimately got cancelled,” Powell explained. “Our music director, Stacy [Jones], came to us and said, ‘This is very secret – you cannot tell anyone, but he’s going to be joining us.’ I swear to God, I was so overwhelmed that I started tearing up. The excitement was palpable as I processed the reality of performing alongside such a legendary figure.”

Powell, who has been a devoted fan of The Cure for years, expressed that the announcement struck a deep chord with her, largely due to her profound appreciation for Smith’s exceptional guitar work. “I’ve always been a massive fan, particularly of those intricate guitar solos,” she shared enthusiastically. “The guitar parts, especially in ‘Friday I’m in Love,’ are simply extraordinary. Being able to play that live with the artist who created it was beyond thrilling.”

Aside from the onstage collaboration, Powell also highlighted Smith’s genuine kindness and warmth backstage. “He was incredibly down-to-earth. He kept his dressing room door open, inviting us in to hang out and chat. He genuinely wanted to connect with us,” she noted, emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere that Smith created during their time together.

“During our conversations, he shared, ‘It’s just another show.’ He expressed how much he enjoys performing and his love for it never fades. This sentiment really inspired me and energized my spirit for the night. It was a reminder that every performance is special, and the enthusiasm of the band that day was truly contagious,” Powell reflected, capturing the essence of the experience.

The performance also represented a significant milestone for Olivia Rodrigo, who has dedicated her 2025 tour to supporting her highly acclaimed sophomore album, GUTS. This album, which impressively debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in 2023, has seen a remarkable resurgence in streaming numbers following her captivating Glastonbury appearance. Singles like “vampire” and “bad idea right?” have surged back into the top rankings of the Billboard Global 200, highlighting her growing influence in the music industry.