As a blog expert for CelebPulse USA, I’m diving into the latest buzz around Lorde’s new album ‘Virgin’ and her intriguing comments on femininity. This article explores how the New Zealand electropop sensation is challenging perceptions of gender and womanhood through her music and recent interviews. Get ready for an insightful look into Lorde’s artistic evolution and her bold statements that are sparking conversations across the globe!
New Zealand electropop sensation Lorde, known for her unique voice and bold songwriting, has once again captivated audiences with her latest album, Virgin. Released in June, the album delves deep into themes of sexual and gender identity, rebirth, and her evolving relationship with her body and mind. But it’s not just the music that’s sparking conversation; Lorde’s recent comments on femininity, particularly her assertion that part of womanhood is “sometimes being a man,” have added another layer to the discourse surrounding her artistic journey. [1, 2, 3]
In an interview with the French outlet Le Monde, Lorde, whose real name is Ella Yelich-O’Connor, reflected extensively on the themes of gender that are integral to Virgin. She shared her personal sense of gender fluidity, stating, “I never felt like a woman until I was 26. I remember the day. My mother was sort of androgynous and showed me a lot of David Bowie, Grace Jones.” She continued, “I understood that was a source of power. And I also saw how dangerous it sometimes was to be a woman.” This realization led her to embrace a unique form of feminine identity: “So I decided that if I’m going to be a woman, I want to be exactly the kind of woman that I need to be. Part of that is sometimes being a man.” [1, 2]
These provocative statements have resonated with many, prompting discussions about the multifaceted nature of identity and the evolving understanding of gender. Lorde’s exploration of these themes is particularly evident in tracks like ‘Man of the Year’ from Virgin. She revealed that this song was inspired by the incredible story of Annette Herfkens, a Dutch woman who survived eight days alone and injured in the Vietnamese jungle after a plane crash in 1992. This inspiration further highlights Lorde’s interest in strength, resilience, and the diverse expressions of human experience. [2]
Virgin marks a significant return to form for Lorde, blending her classic pop sound with innovative production techniques. The album has already achieved mainstream success, debuting at No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard 200 and No. 1 on Top Album Sales. Critics have widely praised the album for its introspective depth and raw honesty, with many noting its ability to capture a broad range of emotions in a deeply personal way. Reviewers have described it as a powerful document of femininity at a specific age, a testament to an artist in constant evolution, unafraid to explore the complexities of womanhood and self-discovery. [1, 3]
Lorde’s willingness to openly discuss her evolving understanding of gender and femininity through her music and interviews positions her as a thought-provoking artist who continues to push boundaries. Her work encourages listeners to reflect on their own identities and the societal constructs that shape them, making Virgin not just an album, but a catalyst for broader conversations about self-discovery and acceptance. As she embarks on a North American and UK tour for Virgin, it’s clear that Lorde’s impact on the music world and cultural discourse is far from over. [2, 3]
References
[1] https://www.lemonde.fr/en/m-le-mag/article/2025/08/31/lorde-new-zealand-electropop-sensation-with-virgin-i-wanted-to-document-my-femininity_6744888_117.html
[2] https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/lorde-claims-part-of-womanhood-is-sometimes-being-a-man-and-virgin-is-about-femininity/
[3] https://www.belmontvision.com/post/perfect-pitch-virgin