AceShowbiz - Lorde recently shared that her longstanding contract with Universal Music Group officially concluded at the end of last year, marking the end of a 17-year relationship with her first record label. The singer opened up about this milestone in a voice note sent to fans ahead of her upcoming Ultrasound festival performances.

In her message, Lorde reflected on signing her initial development deal with Universal when she was just 12 years old, emphasizing the immense length of time she had been under contract. She expressed deep gratitude toward the "incredible people" at Universal who helped bring her first four albums to life, beginning with 2013's Pure Heroine. Despite the positive experience, she acknowledged the challenges of having committed so early in her career without fully understanding the creative implications of the deal.

Now 29, Lorde explained that although she expects to sign a new deal eventually—potentially even with Universal again—she is currently embracing a period where her creative work is not tied to any label. She described this moment as a rare opportunity for a “clean slate,” bringing a sense of openness and inspiration to her artistry. The Grammy-winning artist said, "It just feels exciting to have removed the container or something for a second."

Alongside these professional changes, Lorde is also focusing on personal goals. She revealed she is studying for her driver’s permit, aiming to become licensed before turning 30. Additionally, she has taken a significant step by signing a lease on her first dedicated office space, which she described as a combination of a studio, workspace, and study area. Having managed much of her career from her bed until now, she expressed enthusiasm about what having a more formalized creative environment might bring.

Lorde's career under Universal has been marked by major success. Her debut single “Royals” dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks in 2013, and she has followed with three more albums: Melodrama (2017), Solar Power (2021), and most recently, Virgin (2025). Every one of these releases charted within the top five on the Billboard 200, underscoring her consistent commercial impact.

Looking ahead, Lorde is preparing to headline several high-profile music festivals. These include BottleRock Napa Valley in California and the Governor’s Ball in New York City. Just days before her announcement, it was revealed that she will co-headline Lollapalooza 2026 alongside artists such as Charli XCX, JENNIE, Tate McRae, and Olivia Dean.

This transitional phase signals an exciting new chapter for Lorde, as she explores the freedoms and possibilities of being an independent artist while continuing to build her live performance profile. Billboard has reached out to her representatives and Universal Music Group for additional comments regarding the contract conclusion.

With her contract behind her and new projects on the horizon, Lorde embodies the spirit of reinvention and creative renewal, ready to navigate the next phase of her career on her own terms.