Lorde has released her new single, “What Was That.”
Stream: https://t.co/5YwhzJSaob pic.twitter.com/lvzhtLcfl3
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) April 24, 2025
Hundreds of young fans gathered in Washington Square Park on Tuesday evening, hoping to catch a surprise performance by pop singer Lorde. The artist had hinted at the impromptu concert through an email and text blast, urging fans to meet her at the park at 7 p.m.
Lorde shares new video ahead of the release of “What Was That” tonight. pic.twitter.com/2eIja4nhL4
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) April 23, 2025
By 6 p.m., the park was filled with excited fans, creating a festive atmosphere with Lorde’s songs playing and some people even climbing trees for a better view. However, as the designated time approached, word began to spread that the New York Police Department had canceled the concert due to the lack of necessary permits.
A police spokesperson stated, “Officers were alerted of an unscheduled event inside the park.
Lorde has released the music video for ‘What Was That.’
Watch: https://t.co/6ZzXJ8GW7J pic.twitter.com/EBjuHGLw0V
— Pop Base (@PopBase) April 24, 2025
Sound and park permits are required to host a concert in a New York City Park, and the individuals were not in possession of either.”
Despite the initial disappointment, many fans remained in the park, hoping that the rumors of cancellation were untrue.
Concert canceled for missing permits
Lorde arrives at Washington State Park to preview her new single ‘What Was That?’
— Pop Base (@PopBase) April 23, 2025
Siddhi Vora, 26, and Brady Arellano, 27, were among those who waited, with Arellano commenting, “If she didn’t come out, it would feel like summer isn’t starting yet.”
Lorde expressed her own disappointment over the event’s shutdown through an Instagram story, saying, “Omg @thepark the cops are shutting us down. I am truly amazed by how many of you showed up !!! But they’re telling me you gotta disperse … I’m so sorry.”
However, the singer’s perseverance paid off. Around 8 p.m., collaborator Blood Orange, whose real name is Dev Hynes, played Lorde’s new single “What Was That” on a handheld radio.
Lorde herself reappeared around 9:30 p.m. to perform and interact with the remaining fans, expressing her appreciation for their support. The pop-up served as a prelude to the official release of “What Was That,” set for April 25. Known for her confessional songwriting style, Lorde has captivated audiences since the 2010s with hits like “Royals,” “Team,” and “Green Light.”
While the impromptu concert faced obstacles due to permit issues, it highlighted Lorde’s commitment to her fans and her willingness to navigate challenges for the sake of sharing her music.
