Overview

• Lorde's new single 'What Was That' was released on April 24, a day earlier than initially announced, along with its official music video.
• The video includes scenes from her April 22 pop-up event at Washington Square Park, where she performed the track after police shut down the unsanctioned gathering.
• Thousands of fans had gathered at the park after receiving cryptic invitations via text and social media, leading to law enforcement intervention due to permit issues.
• Despite the shutdown, Lorde and collaborator Dev Hynes improvised a live debut of the single for fans who stayed, using portable speakers and a wooden platform at the park's fountain.
• 'What Was That' is Lorde's first solo release since 2021's 'Solar Power,' signaling a return to a synth-pop sound reminiscent of her 'Melodrama' era.