Pop icon Lorde Glastonbury shocked festivalgoers on Friday morning with an unexpected pre-lunchtime performance at the Woodsies stage during Glastonbury 2025. The New Zealander made a dramatic entrance, launching into her recent single Hammer to a roar from an overflowing crowd.
Her set marked the official launch of her new album, Virgin, released at midnight. In a heartfelt moment onstage, she told fans, “I didn’t know if I’d make another record to be honest… but I’m back and completely free.”
Performing Virgin front to back, Lorde delivered raw, emotionally charged tracks including Man of the Year and What Was That, the latter performed while she pulled her white T-shirt over her head in a moment of cathartic release. The stripped-down set saw Lorde vulnerably address themes like body dysmorphia, heartbreak, and gender identity Lorde Glastonbury.
Despite breaking the “play the hits” rule that usually dominates Glastonbury sets, Lorde closed with fan favourites Ribs and Green Light, the crowd erupting under soaring laser lights.
Her appearance followed weeks of impromptu fan events across the globe, including a surprise video shoot in New York that drew the attention of anti-terror police. Her promotional strategy was as unorthodox as her deeply honest album, which includes reflections on her identity and mental health struggles.
In a recent interview with Stephen Colbert, Lorde revealed that she underwent MDMA-assisted therapy to overcome severe stage fright. “I tried everything,” she said. “I did this therapy and woke up the next morning like, ‘Oh, it’s over.’”
Lorde’s surprise set is being hailed as one of the most memorable Glastonbury openings in recent years. Her devoted fanbase is now buzzing with speculation that she may join Charli XCX’s Saturday night set to perform their collaboration Girl, So Confusing Lorde Glastonbury.
What’s Next at Glastonbury?
Friday’s lineup continues with major acts including The 1975, Alanis Morissette, PinkPantheress, Loyle Carner, and Busta Rhymes. All eyes are also on the surprise Pyramid Stage slot at 16:55 BST, heavily rumoured to be Lewis Capaldi’s comeback.
As Glastonbury 2025 kicks off in high gear, Lorde’s passionate return has already set the tone for a weekend of unforgettable music moments Lorde Glastonbury.
Read more about Rod Stewart’s Glastonbury legends set here and follow our Glastonbury 2025 live updates.
