“vampire” doubles as the lead single from Olivia Rodrigo’s sophomore album, GUTS, as well as her comeback single following the release of her debut album, SOUR, in 2021. A small number of lyrics for the track were steadily released on her website, merchandise, and through her social media prior to the song’s full release.

Rodrigo’s lyrics describe a boy that took advantage of, lied to, and ultimately used her. The references to a vampire in the song’s title, lyrics, and cover art are used as a metaphor to further illustrate this person who sucks the life out of the narrator, leaving her feeling powerless and drained. The song touches upon the themes of vulnerability, self-discovery, and the importance of liberating oneself from toxic relationship dynamics.