What impact did Charli XCX’s album Brat have on Lorde’s creative process? How did Lorde describe her collaboration with Charli on the remix of "Girl, so confusing"? What moments did Lorde experience during her surprise performance at Coachella alongside Charli? In what ways did Lorde express gratitude towards Charli XCX after their collaboration? What themes of vulnerability did both artists explore in their music?
Lorde wasn’t kidding when she said she rides for Charli XCX.
The “What Was That” singer revealed the release of Brat last year—which resulted in their viral collaboration on the “Girl, so confusing” remix—gave her a “kick” when it came to her upcoming album Virgin.
“I’d been kind of cooking this album up, we were like quite a way into it, but Brat coming out really gave me a kick in a lot of ways,” the New Zealand singer-songwriter said during a Wednesday interview with BBC Radio 1’s Jack Saunders. “It forced me to further define what I was doing because Charli had so masterfully defined everything about Brat.”
She added that “it’s just this amazing thing when a peer throws the gauntlet down like that” in reference to the widespread release of Charli’s sixth studio album, which became its own pop culture moment. Lorde herself aided the popularity of Brat by joining her in one of the album’s early remix tracks, which later spawned an entire album full of features.
On the original “Girl, so confusing,” Charli references her relationship (or lack thereof, at that point in time) with the two-time Grammy winner, which came after years of the two being compared to one another. However, they arguably “worked it out on the remix,” which Lorde recalled as a moment of “rugged vulnerability” that has now inspired her new work.
“I had been trying to express in this very naked way [through music] and then Brat came out and she was kind of doing that from the other side of the coin,” Lorde explained. “And doing the remix together and meeting her in that place of rugged vulnerability and kind of cracking open the thing, people responded really well to that.”
Nonetheless, the success of Brat pushed Lorde creatively. “I’ve spoken to a lot of peers who all had the same feelings,” she said. “It’s very sick and I’m so grateful to her.”
Since the remix dropped, Lorde joined Charli to perform the track on her Brat tour and during the first weekend of Coachella a few weeks ago. In a Thursday profile with Document, the “Green Light” songstress said it was a “dream” putting on the surprise performance alongside “a homie.”
“Charli was playing, and I just walked out into the grass, and was like, this is it. This is everything you could dream that your work would feel like,” she said, before adding that Charli’s “whole group is so cool,” seemingly referencing her time hanging out with her fellow surprise performers Billie Eilish and Troye Sivan.
“Through watching Charli and hanging out with her, I saw how, yes, we’ve got a job to do, but it also has to be fun, and we have to all be connected and having these special moments that no one can see,” she added. “It was cool to hang with them and just all be sitting in the grass afterward and eating bad pizza.”
Lorde’s new album Virgin arrives June 27.
Lorde Says ‘Brat’ ‘Gave Me a Kick’ With New Album, Praises Remix
Lorde, the New Zealand-born pop sensation known for her introspective lyrics and unique sound, has once again made waves in the music industry with her latest project. In a recent interview, she discussed the profound impact of her song "Brat," found on her new album, and how it has reinvigorated her artistic spirit. The artist, who gained immense popularity with her debut album "Pure Heroine" and hit singles like "Royals," is no stranger to evolution, and "Brat" marks yet another significant chapter in her musical journey.
The Evolution of Lorde’s Sound
Since her emergence onto the music scene in 2013, Lorde has consistently pushed the boundaries of pop music. Her sound has evolved over the years, transitioning from the minimalist beats of "Royals" to the more complex arrangements found in her sophomore release, "Melodrama." With her latest album, many listeners and critics alike eagerly anticipated what direction she would take next.
“Brat” stands out as a unique track that embodies a mix of energetic beats and candid lyrics. Lorde has noted that creating this song was a transformative experience. “It gave me a kick,” she stated, reflecting on the exhilaration she felt during the songwriting process. The track dives into themes of youth, rebellion, and the trials of growing up, which resonates powerfully with listeners, particularly in the current climate of societal pressures.
A Personal Connection to ‘Brat’
In discussing "Brat," Lorde emphasized her connection to the song on a personal level. The lyrics paint a picture of self-discovery and the conflicting emotions that accompany it, capturing the essence of being young and restless. With lines that are both confessional and empowering, Lorde invites her audience to reflect on their own lives.
“It’s very relatable,” she mentioned. “Everybody has gone through periods of feeling misunderstood or out of place, and I think that’s what makes ‘Brat’ hit home for so many.” The raw honesty in her lyrics encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and navigate the messy terrain of adolescence and young adulthood.
The Kick of Creativity
Lorde’s mention of "kick" goes beyond just a feeling; it encapsulates a renewed sense of purpose in her music. Following the critical and commercial success of her previous works, she faced the inevitable pressure of expectation. “Sometimes it can feel daunting,” she admitted. “But with ‘Brat,’ it felt like I was unleashing something that had been bubbling inside of me.”
This burst of creativity didn’t just influence her songwriting but also seeped into her artistic expression as a whole. The music video for "Brat," directed by the talented filmmaker known for her inventive visuals, showcases a vibrant and almost chaotic energy that parallels the song’s themes. “I wanted it to feel like a celebration of being young and unapologetic,” Lorde explained, noting that the visual representation is as important as the audio experience.
Praise for the Remix
In addition to the original track, Lorde has also shown excitement about the remix of "Brat," which has garnered attention from both fans and fellow artists. Collaborating with notable names in the electronic and pop genre, this remix introduces fresh interpretations of her work, adding layers and dimensions that complement the original track.
Lorde expressed her admiration for how remix artists take her songs and make them their own. “It’s interesting to see how other musicians interpret my work,” she said. “The remix adds a whole new life to the song, and it’s fascinating to hear it reimagined in different contexts.” This adaptability showcases the versatility of Lorde’s songwriting, proving that her music can resonate across multiple genres and styles.
Impact on the Music Landscape
Lorde’s contributions to the music industry extend beyond her chart-topping hits. She is often seen as a voice for her generation, tackling issues that resonate with young listeners, such as mental health, identity, and the complexities of social media. With “Brat,” she continues to cement her role as a powerful figure in contemporary pop music.
Her authenticity and willingness to be vulnerable in her art have fostered a loyal fanbase. Many fans report finding comfort in her music, often relating to her struggles and triumphs within the complexities of modern life. Lorde’s ability to articulate these experiences elevates her position not just as a pop star, but as an artist who genuinely connects with her audience.
Conclusion
As fans eagerly await more music from Lorde, it is clear that "Brat" represents a pivotal moment in her career. With its infectious energy, relatable themes, and innovative remix, this song exemplifies her artistic growth and enduring relevance in an ever-evolving musical landscape. “Creating ‘Brat’ was a reminder of why I love making music,” she concluded. “It’s all about expressing yourself and finding joy in the process.” As Lorde continues to explore new creative avenues, her songs promise to inspire and empower generations to come.
Lorde recently expressed her excitement about her new album, describing the track “Brat” as particularly energizing. She praised its remix, highlighting how it invigorated her creativity and inspired her artistic process. The remix has brought fresh perspectives to her music, enhancing the overall experience for listeners. Lorde emphasized how “Brat” encapsulated her evolving sound and the emotional depth she aimed to convey in her latest work.