New Zealand pop sensation Lorde has thrilled fans with the announcement of her fourth studio album, Virgin, slated for release on June 27, 2025. The announcement, shared via her official website and social media, follows the release of her introspective lead single, “What Was That,” which dropped on April 24, 2025, marking her first solo release in nearly four years.
A New Chapter for Lorde
Virgin is described as a deeply personal project, with Lorde taking the reins as both artist and producer alongside Jim-E Stack. The album features contributions from notable collaborators, including Fabiana Palladino, Andrew Aged, Buddy Ross, Dan Nigro, and Devonté Hynes (Blood Orange). Mixed by industry veterans Spike Stent and Tom Elmhirst, and mastered by Chris Gehringer, the album is poised to be a sonic masterpiece. Lorde herself teased the project as “100% written in blood,” hinting at its raw emotional intensity.
The lead single, “What Was That,” has already garnered widespread acclaim for its return to the emotionally charged synth-pop sound of her 2017 album, Melodrama. Co-written with Jim-E Stack and produced with Dan Nigro, the track explores themes of heartbreak, nostalgia, and personal rebirth, with vivid lyrics referencing MDMA-fueled memories and lost love. The accompanying music video, shot in New York City, captures Lorde’s impromptu performance at Washington Square Park, where she danced alongside fans despite an initial shutdown by local police.
Building Anticipation
Lorde has masterfully built anticipation for Virgin through cryptic social media teasers, voice memos, and a surprise appearance at Coachella alongside Charli XCX to perform their collaborative remix of “Girl, So Confusing.” Her recent activities, including wiping her Instagram and website clean, signaled a fresh era, which she described in a voice memo to fans as a moment where “everything is about to change.”
Fans have taken to social media to express their excitement, with some speculating that Virgin may draw inspiration from Charli XCX’s Brat aesthetic, incorporating guerrilla marketing strategies. Posts on X have hailed the album as a potential “soul pop album of the year,” with Charli XCX herself declaring 2025 the “Lorde Summer.”
What to Expect from ‘Virgin’
While specific details about the album’s tracklist and themes remain under wraps, Lorde’s recent statements suggest Virgin will delve into her personal growth following a painful breakup and struggles with body image and health. In a note on her website, she described the creation of “What Was That” as a process of navigating “grief’s vortex” and embracing rebirth, hinting that the album may blend raw vulnerability with euphoric pop sensibilities.
The album’s production team, which includes heavyweights like Dan Nigro (known for his work with Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan), suggests a polished yet innovative sound. Fans can expect a continuation of Lorde’s signature lyrical depth, paired with the pulsating electronics that defined her earlier work.
Lorde’s Recent Journey
Since her 2021 album Solar Power, Lorde has kept a relatively low profile, save for notable collaborations like her cover of “Take Me to the River” for A24’s Talking Heads tribute and her work with Charli XCX. Her appearance at Coachella and the Washington Square Park pop-up event have reignited fan fervor, proving her enduring influence in the pop landscape.
Despite challenges, such as the NYPD shutting down her initial park event due to overcrowding, Lorde’s connection with her audience remains strong. Her ability to turn setbacks into memorable moments, like dancing to “What Was That” with Dev Hynes’ portable speaker, underscores her creative resilience.
Looking Ahead
As the release date for Virgin approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting more singles, music videos, and potential tour announcements. With Lorde’s track record of delivering culturally resonant albums like Pure Heroine (2013) and Melodrama (2017), Virgin is poised to be a defining moment in her career. Pre-save options for “What Was That” are already available on Spotify and Apple Music, and fans are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates.
For the latest news on Lorde’s Virgin and her upcoming projects, visit her official website or follow her on social media. Will Virgin cement Lorde’s status as a pop icon? Only time will tell, but the buzz is undeniable.