Global Success

At seventeen years old, Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O’Connor, has accomplished more than most musicians could ever possibly dream about. Better known by her stage name, Lorde, she has already won nine major music awards globally, including two Grammy awards. What’s particularly impressive is that Lorde found a lifetime’s worth of achievements on the back of her debut album.

Littered with single-ready material, Pure Heroine made it’s home at the top of every music chart that matters. Pure Heroine is primarily an album of electronic songs, using little in the way of traditional instrumentation. Although electronic songs can sound great on the radio, it can be very difficult for a musician to interpret the songs live. Reproducing identical electronic sounds can be an impossible task, leaving many artists to sing along to pre-recorded tracks.

Some musicians, however, take an alternate approach, using a full band to recreate the notes and melody of a song, but diverting from the original sound. Following her show in Houston, it’s apparent Lorde finds her comfort zone somewhere in the middle. But, what rises above the music is her performance, personality, and passion. When she performs live, she makes an impression.

All About the Vocal

For her first song of the evening, “Glory and Gore,” Lorde took the stage alone. The haunting notes ringing through the house speakers, she stood under a single light, belting out notes while bobbing and weaving her body to the beat. With no other musicians on stage, it was immediately apparent that the performance would be all about the vocal.

Once she finished the final notes of “Glory and Gore,” Lorde was joined by a keyboardist and drummer, but the dynamic didn’t change very much. Lorde rightfully remained the center of attention, but with the compliment of live percussion and a large video screen of interpretive imagery. Although this limited the scope of musical flexibility, it didn’t restrict Lorde’s incredible vocal chops.

From “Biting Down” to “Royals,” Lorde explored her voice, demonstrating great control, range, and spirit. She made herself vulnerable by executing a performance without guitars, strings, or piano. Yet, Lorde used her incredible talent and charisma to take control and place the burden of the show’s reception squarely on her shoulders. Through that risk, she found success, fostering an intimate environment despite a crowd of thousands, and making each fan live and feel every note she sang.

Finding Comfort & Looking Forward

Lorde is a compelling figure. To her, the fans are her peers – equals in a journey through life, crossing paths for a moment in time. During the show, the connection was obvious.

Prior to her performance of “Ribs,” Lorde told a story.

“My sister and I decided to throw this huge house party and everyone stayed over,” Lorde said, setting the backdrop of the story. For Lorde, that moment with her friends and family was something special. Surrounded by loved ones, she reflected.

“There’s something crazy about this. We’re doing what we said we’d do as kids. It’s cool but it’s scary. Can you go back? Can you be a kid again? It’s a feeling I’ve been grappling with a lot.”

At seventeen, Lorde found herself under the spotlight. With the fame, she openly wonders whether she can maintain her formative years. For her, it’s a struggle, but in the end, she is living her dream.

“Sharing songs is comforting to me,” Lorde explained. “What I’m trying to say is thank you so much Houston.”

Just two songs later, Lorde would put on the performance of the evening. “Team” started just as it does on the album, but ended in a much different way. Extended by several minutes, “Team” grew larger as the song progressed, with thick synth lines and vocal riffs stacking and looping. By the end, with streamers showering the room from the ceiling, the energy of the moment could be felt through the floor.

Creating Connections

It was obvious to see – Lorde struggles to accept fame in lieu of her teenage years. She doesn’t put on a superstar front or place herself above others. Instead, fame shines upon her because of her immense talent and relatable image. She finds comfort sharing her songs. Her fans find comfort receiving them. In those moments, she must realize the profound impact she has on others, and the emotion she receives in return. Although Lorde may never “go back” or “be a kid again,” she can rest easy knowing that she is spreading positivity on a massive scale. At any age, much less seventeen, that’s an incredible gift to share.

Lorde is easy to love. Her songs have lyrical depth. Her performances are unique and highlight her breathtaking talents. Her ability to connect with her fans, however, stands above all else. She can move a room of thousands while reaching each person individually. In the abstract, that may sound impressive, if not impossible. In person, it’s downright religious. Next time she’s in town, find out for yourself.

Setlist:
Glory and Gore
Biting Down
Tennis Court
White Teeth Teens
Buzzcut Season
Swinging Party (The Replacements Cover)
Still Sane
400 Lux
Bravado
Easy (Son Lux Cover)
Ribs
Royals
Team
A World Alone

Contact Robert at robert@starsandsatellites.com or @RobertSatellite on Twitter