Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O’Connor, better known to the world as Lorde, is a singer and songwriter from New Zealand. She was born on November 7, 1996, in Auckland to poet Sonja Yelich and civil engineer Vic O’Connor. At the start of her musical career, Ella adopted the stage name “Lorde,” inspired by the singer’s fascination with the aristocracy. It didn’t take long for the Lorde to be scouted by Universal Music Group’s executive, Scott Maclachlan.
Maclachlan introduced Lorde to the award-winning producer, Joel Little, who collaborated with her on “The Love Club” EP. Despite being an obscure artist at the time, the EP’s single “Royals” quickly launched Lorde into international stardom. She then released her debut studio album “Pure Heroine” in 2013, cementing her spot in the musical mainstream. In June 2017, Lorde unleashed her sophomore album “Melodrama” to even greater critical acclaim.
In an unexpected move, Lorde decided to take a temporary hiatus and emerged four years later with her third album, “Solar Power”. The record was released in 2021, receiving mixed reviews and polarizing her audience. Despite the criticism, Lorde recognizes the album as something that she’s made for herself, often dubbing it her “weed album.” Solar Power was also a stark contrast to her previous albums, focusing on psychedelic pop and indie folk melodies.
Lorde is best known for her unique musical style and introspective lyrics. With her music mirroring her personal life, it’s not surprising that fans often speculate about the singer’s relationships. In fact, there are plenty of questions surrounding her sexuality. So, is Lorde gay? Let’s find out below.
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Lorde’s Relationships and Rumored Affair
While Lorde is openly vulnerable in her songwriting, she is intensely secretive when it comes to her relationships. Ever since her debut in 2013, the singer has only one confirmed and public relationship. Due to the mystery surrounding her private life, fans are usually left wondering about Lorde’s sexuality. Here’s a closer look at the singer’s relationships and alleged affair.
Lorde and James Lowe (2013-2016)
Lorde’s first and only public relationship was with photographer James Lowe. The pair started dating in 2013 which was also the same time the singer gained international success. According to reports, the two first met in Devenport, New Zealand, and were quick to hit it off. Although the couple had undeniable chemistry, the relationship didn’t come without its challenges.
For one thing, Lorde was 16 years old at the start of their relationship, while Lowe was eight years her senior at 24 years old. While the singer’s parents weren’t too keen on the age gap, they did like him. They also added that it wasn’t out of character for Lorde to date older men. In fact, the singer’s first boyfriend, pre-fame, was four years older than her.
The first cracks started showing in early 2014. Lowe himself expressed his thoughts on the relationship in a personal blog post. He was outspoken about being the target of cyberbullying, the tabloids, and the paparazzi. But despite the negative impacts, the photographer maintained that he was happy with the Royals singer.
Unfortunately, their relationship would not go the distance. The pair broke off in 2016 after nearly three years together. Lorde herself admitted that it was her “first major heartbreak.” The experience even inspired some of the hits on her second album, Melodrama. Since parting ways, it’s unclear whether the two remain amicable.
Lorde and Jack Antonoff (2017)
In 2017, Lorde was rumored to be romantically involved with producer Jack Antonoff. The pair were collaborating on her album Melodrama when the news broke out. Even though Antonoff was with his then-girlfriend Lena Dunham, the rumors persisted.
The speculations turned worse after a media strategist’s online presentation went viral. The presentation apparently “proved” their alleged relationship.
Dunham was naturally upset regarding the presentation but insisted that Antonoff never cheated on her, even after they went their separate ways. Antonoff also denied the allegations in now-deleted tweets and stated the speculations must have come from people who didn’t believe that men and women can be just friends.
Lorde also went on Instagram Live to dispel the rumors. According to the singer, Antonoff was an awesome person and she loved him but strongly denied that they ever dated.
Lorde and Justin Warren (2016-Present)
Ever since Lorde’s comeback with Solar Power, talks have been circulating once again, but this time with music executive Justin Warren, who is 17 years older than the singer. The couple was first spotted together in 2016 at a beach in New Zealand and the pictures prompted dating rumors. However, Warren was swift to deny the allegations.
Ella and I have worked together for years and we’re good friends. Any rumors of us being ‘a pair’ are ridiculous. Ella has a really busy year ahead of her and we’ll be spending more time together as plans for the next Lorde record unfold.”
Justin Warren to the NZ Herald in 2016
Unfortunately, Warren’s statement didn’t stop the rumor mill. In 2019, the couple was photographed shopping for rugs together. Later in the year, engagement talks circulated after the singer was spotted with a ring on her finger. But true to her nature, Lorde has never commented on the ring nor addressed the speculations.
Up to this day, the Green Lights singer has yet to confirm her relationship with Warren.
Is Lorde Gay?
No, Lorde is not gay. Based on her public relationships and even alleged affairs, the New Zealand singer is considered straight. However, it’s not surprising for fans to question her sexuality. Lorde is an open supporter of the LGBTQ community and is known to have close friendships with other singers like Taylor Swift, but to base her sexuality on this would be inaccurate.