Trending Now - Lorde Becomes Independent Artist After Leaving Universal Music

WHO:

Lorde, New Zealand singer

Universal Music Group (UMG), record label

Republic Records, UMG subsidiary

WHAT:

Lorde became an independent artist after her contract with UMG expired.

Lorde signed her first development deal with UMG when she was 12 years old.

Lorde's contract with UMG ended in December 2025.

Lorde released her fourth album "Virgin" in June 2025.

Lorde is currently on her global "Ultrasound" tour.

WHERE:

Los Angeles, where Lorde's upcoming shows will take place on May 14-15, 2026.

WHEN:

Lorde shared the news in voice memos on March 18, 2026.

Lorde's contract with UMG expired in December 2025.

WHY:

Lorde sought a "clean slate" after being under contract since she was 12 years old.

She expressed a desire to have "nothing being bought or sold that comes from me."

HOW:

Lorde communicated her news through a series of community voice notes to her fans.

(UPDATED March 19, 2026 17:24 UTC)

Lorde announced that she has become an independent artist after her contract with Universal Music Group expired in December 2025, a significant change for the New Zealand singer who signed her first deal with the label at just 12 years old. In a series of voice memos shared with her fans on March 18, 2026, she expressed her desire for a "clean slate," stating she wants "nothing being bought or sold that comes from me." Currently, Lorde is on her global "Ultrasound" tour, with upcoming shows scheduled in Los Angeles on May 14 and 15, 2026.