Lorde Embarks on Independent Path After Concluding Universal Music Group Deal

After a 12-year partnership, Lorde has officially become an independent artist, marking a significant shift in her career as she concludes her contract with Universal Music Group (UMG). The Modern Zealand singer-songwriter’s final album released under the label, Virgin, arrived in June 2025.

A Long-Standing Relationship Comes to an End

Lorde signed her initial development deal with Universal Music Group at the remarkably young age of 12, essentially pre-selling her future creative output. In a message to fans, she expressed her gratitude for the label, stating, “I adore them. They’re incredible people and I had an amazing experience with them.” However, she likewise acknowledged the unique circumstances of signing away her creative work before fully understanding the implications.

“But the truth is that a 12-year-old girl pre-sold her creative output before she knew what it would be like, and before she knew what she was signing away,” Lorde explained in a voice note to fans.

From ‘Royals’ to Independence

Lorde rose to prominence in 2013 with her debut album, Pure Heroine, and the breakout single “Royals,” quickly becoming a global star at the age of 16. She followed up with critically acclaimed albums Melodrama (2017) and Solar Power (2021), all released through Universal. Virgin, released in 2025, marked her final album under the UMG contract.

A “Clean Slate” and Future Plans

Lorde expressed a desire for a “clean slate” and the freedom to create on her own terms. “I knew that I needed to grab a second to have nothing being bought or sold that comes from me,” she said. She described a feeling of “openness and possibility” and expressed excitement about the future. Pitchfork reported that she is entering a “container-less” period.

Despite gaining independence, Lorde remains active in the music scene. She is currently performing at festivals in South America and has upcoming performances scheduled at major festivals including Jazz Fest in New Orleans, Governors Ball in New York, and Lollapalooza in Chicago in 2026. Happy Mag notes she is also completing final LA shows.

What’s Next for Lorde?

Lorde is embracing this new chapter, focusing on personal pursuits such as obtaining a driver’s license and learning to play chess, even as also establishing a new office to manage her career. She has not ruled out the possibility of working with a label again in the future, but for now, she is relishing the creative control and freedom that independence provides.