Grammy-winning artist Lorde has recently made a musical comeback with her latest single, “What Was That,” along with an accompanying music video. The 28-year-old singer shared a personal note on her website, reflecting on the emotional journey she went through while creating the song. In late 2023, Lorde found herself back in New York, dealing with a profound breakup and making the decision to stop birth control. She described the experience as challenging, with every meal feeling like a battle and being consumed by grief.
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The song, co-written by Lorde and Jim-E Stack and produced with Dan Nigro, features intricate guitar work by Andrew Aged and contributions from Koby Berman and Jack Manning. Lorde shared insights into the creative process, mentioning moments like producer Dan giving direction on the Moog bass and finally achieving the desired drum sound. The result is an upbeat track with electronic elements, mixing nostalgic lyrics about a past relationship with a dynamic sound. Lorde’s raw and emotional vocals bring out the depth of the song’s themes.
Accompanying the single release is a music video shot in New York City, capturing Lorde walking and biking around the urban landscape. The video culminates in a scene at Washington Square Park, where fans gathered for a spontaneous pop-up event. Despite initial challenges with police shutting down the first event due to permit issues, Lorde and collaborator Blood Orange, also known as Dev Hynes, managed to play the new single for the enthusiastic crowd later in the evening. The artist’s dedication to her fans and passion for her music were evident throughout the impromptu performance.
Following the release of “What Was That,” Lorde has been praised for her authentic and relatable storytelling in the song. Fans and music critics alike have lauded her willingness to delve into personal struggles and experiences, creating a connection with listeners through her music. The blend of heartfelt lyrics and inventive production in the single showcases Lorde’s growth and evolution as an artist, resonating with fans on a deeper level.
Despite challenges faced during the production and promotion of the song, Lorde’s perseverance and commitment to her art shone through. The artist’s ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances, such as the last-minute location change for the pop-up event, demonstrates her dedication to sharing her music with her audience. Through her music and performances, Lorde continues to captivate and inspire listeners with her authenticity and creativity, solidifying her status as a respected figure in the music industry.
As “What Was That” gains traction and receives acclaim from fans and critics, Lorde remains focused on her musical journey, with potential new projects on the horizon. The artist’s introspective and emotive approach to songwriting sets her apart in the pop music landscape, garnering admiration for her unique perspective and artistic vision. With her latest release, Lorde invites listeners to share in her personal experiences and emotions, creating a powerful and moving connection through music.