Lorde Returns with Emotional New Single “What Was That” After Surprise NYC Pop-Up Performance
Lorde has officially ushered in a new musical era with the release of her latest single, “What Was That,” a synth-pop track that delves into personal transformation and emotional upheaval. The song, released on April 24, 2025, marks her first new music since 2021’s Solar Power and serves as the lead single from her forthcoming fourth studio album.
The rollout began with an impromptu performance at New York City’s Washington Square Park on April 22. Lorde announced the surprise event via her Instagram story, drawing a large crowd eager to hear her new material. However, the gathering was swiftly dispersed by the NYPD due to the absence of necessary permits. Undeterred, Lorde returned later that evening, accompanied by collaborator Dev Hynes (Blood Orange), to share the track with fans in a more intimate setting.
In a candid note on her website, Lorde revealed that “What Was That” was inspired by a significant personal breakup and the emotional impact of discontinuing birth control. She described the song as a cathartic expression of the physical and emotional challenges she faced during that period.
The track was co-written and co-produced with Jim-E Stack and Dan Nigro, featuring contributions from musicians Andrew Aged, Koby Berman, and Jack Manning. It was mixed by Spike Stent and mastered by Chris Gehringer .
Accompanying the single is a music video that captures Lorde traversing the streets of New York City, culminating in a spontaneous dance performance at Washington Square Park, surrounded by fans. The visual narrative mirrors the song’s themes of introspection and renewal.
With “What Was That,” Lorde signals a return to the synth-pop sound reminiscent of her Melodrama era, offering fans a glimpse into her evolving artistry and personal growth.
