Lana Del Rey’s ‘Lasso’ Album: Release Updates and Country Music Shift

Lana Del Rey continues to operate on her highly anticipated tenth studio album, ‘Lasso,’ embracing a country-inspired sound whereas maintaining her signature style. The singer confirmed the project’s country direction in early 2024, emphasizing it builds upon her existing Americana influences rather than representing a drastic departure.

Current Status and Creative Process

In October 2024, Del Rey shared that she is taking her time to ensure ‘Lasso’ meets her artistic vision, stating she does not want to release a “half-cooked” album even if it is stripped back. She highlighted the importance of waiting for the right creative moment, noting she would pause if she felt an “energetic pause” during the process.

Artist Comments on Musical Direction

Del Rey previously told Billboard and the National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) Songwriter Awards in January 2024 that the music industry is shifting toward country music, saying, “We’re going country. It’s happening.” She later clarified that ‘Lasso’ would not be a heavy departure from her past work, explaining that all fresh songs have been Americana-inspired and she wants to assess the musical atmosphere before finalizing the album.

Industry Context and Recognition

In May 2024, Del Rey received the Special International Award at the Ivor Novello Awards in London, where she reflected on her career and addressed past criticisms of her songwriting. During her acceptance speech, she noted that her early songs, once dismissed as “naval-gazing,” now resonate with broader themes of hard relationships, citing a 300 percent increase in interpersonal relationship violence in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic as evidence of their relevance.

Fan Anticipation and Media Coverage

Fans and media outlets have eagerly awaited updates on ‘Lasso,’ with Del Rey providing insights through interviews with People, Entertainment Weekly and NME. The album is expected to blend classic country music genres with her distinctive style, though no official release date has been announced as of October 2024.

As Del Rey continues to refine ‘Lasso,’ her focus remains on delivering an authentic and polished project that aligns with her artistic growth and the evolving musical landscape.