On April 24, 2025, Lorde released her latest single, What Was That, marking her first original solo track since 2021s Solar Power. This song introduces a fresh, electronicpop sound, signaling a new direction for the artist. The release was accompanied by a surprise event in New York Citys Washington Square Park, where Lorde engaged directly with fans.
In the days leading up to the release, Lorde teased the song with a 15second TikTok clip, showcasing her walking through Washington Square Park. She also updated her social media profiles with cryptic imagery, including a water bottle as her profile picture, and cleared her official website and Instagram feed. On April 22, she invited fans via Instagram to meet her in the park at 7 p.m. Hundreds gathered, but the event was shut down by the NYPD due to the lack of necessary permits. Despite this, Lorde returned later that evening to perform What Was That for the remaining fans, turning the impromptu gathering into a memorable experience.
What Was That was cowritten with JimE Stack, who also coproduced the track alongside Lorde and Daniel Nigro. The song features a more electronic and poporiented sound compared to the acoustic tones of Solar Power. The cover art, shot by photographer Talia Chetrit, depicts Lorde in a bright red Tshirt with water dripping from her face, aligning with the songs fresh aesthetic.
This release follows Lordes collaboration with Charli XCX on the remix of Girl, So Confusing, which received critical acclaim and charted on several yearend lists. Lordes ability to evolve and connect with her audience continues to solidify her status as a significant figure in contemporary pop music.
With What Was That, Lorde embarks on a new musical journey, blending introspective lyrics with a vibrant sound, and reaffirms her unique place in the music industry.