Lorde Embarks on New Independent Chapter After 17-Year Record Deal
After nearly two decades with Universal Music Group (UMG), singer-songwriter Lorde is stepping into a new era as an independent artist. The New Zealand-born musician, whose real name is Ella Yelich-O’Connor, announced the conclude of her contract with UMG on March 18, 2026, marking a significant shift in her career.
A Long-Standing Partnership Concludes
Lorde initially signed a development deal with Universal Music Group at the age of 12, and released her breakout debut single, “Royals,” in 2013. The song quickly rose to prominence, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks and earning Grammy Awards for Best Pop Solo Performance and Song of the Year. Her subsequent albums, including Melodrama and Solar Power, further solidified her position as a leading voice in contemporary pop music.
Seeking a “Clean Slate”
In a voice note shared with fans, Lorde expressed her desire for a “clean slate” and the freedom to explore her creativity without the constraints of a major label. “I’ve been under contract for a long, long time, in one form or another…since I was 12 years old, when I signed my first development deal with Universal,” she explained, according to NME. She acknowledged her positive experiences with UMG but emphasized the need to reclaim ownership of her artistic output. “The truth is that a 12-year-old girl pre-sold her creative output before she even knew what it would seem like, and before she knew what she was signing,” she stated.
Future Plans and Festival Appearances
While Lorde doesn’t rule out future collaborations with Universal, she is currently focused on navigating her career as an independent artist. “When I have the opportunity to put the past behind me, I try to seize it,” she said. She is currently on a South American festival tour and is slated to headline London’s All Points East festival in August, as reported by The Independent. Lorde is set to perform at Lollapalooza 2026 alongside Charli XCX and Tate McRae, Billboard reported.
Beyond Music: A New Goal
In a lighter moment within her message to fans, Lorde also shared a personal goal: obtaining her driver’s license before her 30th birthday in November.
What This Means for the Music Industry
Lorde’s decision to become an independent artist reflects a growing trend among established musicians seeking greater control over their careers and creative direction. Her move could inspire other artists to explore alternative paths outside of traditional record label structures, potentially reshaping the dynamics of the music industry.