Lorde scores big with new single 'What Was That'

In early May 2025, New Zealand-born singer Lorde made a notable return to the music scene with her latest single, 'What Was That.' The excitement surrounding its release has reinvigorated her presence on various charts, as the track debuted at No. 11 on the Official Singles chart in the U.K., marking it as her second-highest-charting single after 'Royals.' Not only did 'What Was That' manage to capture the attention of listeners, but it also led to a resurgence of interest in her debut album, 'Pure Heroine,' which has made a comeback by re-entering multiple Billboard rankings, including the Billboard 200, Top Alternative Albums, and Top Rock & Alternative Albums charts. This renewed interest stems from both the anticipation for the new single and a recent fan gathering in New York City that showcased Lorde's strong connection with her audience. Despite its early success, 'What Was That' debuted lower than desired on specific consumption charts, reflecting a trend where recent releases have struggled to match streaming numbers with industry expectations. Nonetheless, the song is gaining traction due to a combination of physical sales, streaming on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, and radio play. While the track enters the Billboard Hot Alternative Songs at No. 25 and Hot Rock & Alternative Songs at No. 31, it indicates that there is still a dedicated fanbase eager for Lorde's new music. The growing excitement surrounding 'What Was That' signifies a hopeful shift in the artist's career as she prepares to unveil her upcoming album, 'Virgin,' set for release in late June. Her new single represents a potential return to the artistically-driven synth-pop sound for which she initially gained fame, following a departure into folk and indie genres with her previous album, 'Solar Power.' With 'Virgin,' fans can anticipate a shift back toward the style that solidified her position in the music industry. As the release of 'What Was That' marks the beginning of this new musical chapter, it serves as a reminder of Lorde's remarkable ability to evolve while maintaining her distinct voice in the industry. Overall, the rollout of this single, alongside the historical context of her debut album, suggests an exciting moment for Lorde and her fans as they wait for more music and the next phase of her career.