Lorde Makes a Triumphant Return with New Single “What Was That”
Lorde has officially unveiled “What Was That,” her first original solo track since the release of her album Solar Power in 2021. Following a period of relative silence where she was mostly absent from the music scene, the New Zealand pop star’s return has been marked by a carefully orchestrated promotional campaign consisting of cryptic social media teasers, voice notes, and audio snippets. The cover art for the single, which features a distinct aesthetic, was shot by Talia Chetrit. Fans can also experience the new song through its official music video, which features footage from recent events.
Live Debut at Washington Square Park
The release of “What Was That” included a noteworthy live debut at New York’s Washington Square Park, where Lorde surprised fans by performing the track using a small speaker. Prior to her appearance, she sent out a message to fans via her text line, encouraging them to join her at the park. Unfortunately, the event attracted an overwhelming crowd, leading local police and park rangers to intervene and shut it down before the performance could continue. The footage captured during this spontaneous gathering is featured in the music video for “What Was That,” adding to the song’s community-centered narrative.
Collaborative Efforts in Production
The new single showcases Lorde’s collaborative spirit, as she co-wrote “What Was That” with Jim-E Stack, who also contributed to its production alongside Daniel Nigro. Stack provided the instrumentation, including drums, keyboards, and synthesizer, while Nigro contributed bass, electric guitar, and additional engineering. Andrew Aged from the band Inc. No World also performed electric guitar on the track, highlighting the multi-layered approach to its sound.
Context of Recent Works
Lorde’s return follows the release of Solar Power, her highly anticipated follow-up to the critically acclaimed Melodrama from 2018. Solar Power featured several singles, including the title track, “Stoned at the Nail Salon,” and “Mood Ring,” all of which were accompanied by music videos. Despite a quieter period over the next couple of years, Lorde made headlines by guesting on stage with Muna in 2023 and lending her voice to a cover for A24’s Talking Heads tribute album in 2024. In addition, she collaborated with Charli XCX on a remix of the track “Girl, So Confusing,” further solidifying her presence in the current music landscape.
Critical Reception and Industry Impact
In the context of her career trajectory, the release of “What Was That” not only marks a significant moment for Lorde but also demonstrates her ability to captivate audiences despite a lengthy hiatus from original work. The anticipation surrounding this release is reflected in its promotional strategy and the immediate response from fans drawn to the intimate atmosphere of her spontaneous performance. Additionally, Lorde’s collaborations over the past year suggest a willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles, potentially inviting new listeners into her growing musical repertoire.
In conclusion, with the release of “What Was That,” Lorde reasserts her role in the music industry as an influential artist, bridging connections through innovative production and live experiences. The digital age of music continues to evolve, and Lorde’s strategic use of social media and direct fan engagement reflects an understanding of this new landscape. As she embarks on this new chapter, the significance of her return cannot be understated, promising potential shifts in both her artistic direction and the broader pop music scene.
