This was previously published in our October 2025 issue. 

Lorde — most prominently known for her hit, “Royals”— is touring Europe and the U.S. to share her new vision. Through the “Virgin” album, Lorde expresses feelings of gender dysphoria, pain, and self-growth.

Before Lorde’s entrance, the alternative/indie band Japanese House performed. Although I was unfamiliar with their music, the songs were mellow and catchy. Blood Orange, followed Japanese House’s performance by playing fan favorite songs like “Champagne Coast.” Visually, the set was simple, but his songs were catchy enough to keep the crowd dancing and entertained. With a strong opening performance, I anticipated an even better show from the main set. My expectations. were exceeded when Lorde appeared on stage.

Lorde entered the arena with energy and spunk. “Hammer,” the first song on Lorde’s new album and in her concert, was electric and captivated the audience with flashing blue lights and a pulsing beat. Fans began to scream with excitement when her most popular song, “Royals” played. Lorde repeatedly thanked her fans for being able to play her music in Philadelphia. It was refreshing to see that 11 years later, she remains humble, self-aware and down to earth.

Throughout the set, she sprinkled iconic songs from her first two albums, “Pure Heroine” and “Melodrama,” with her songs from her new album. Later on, Lorde replaced her outfit that consisted of baggy clothing to reveal a duct-tape bra during “Man of the Year” to emphasize the song’s message about accepting and exploring gender fluidity.

I was looking forward to going to the Lorde Ultrasound Tour because as a senior, I wanted to seize this opportunity to experience the song “Ribs” with my friends before we all begin a new chapter.