Lorde, the 28-year-old pop sensation, is currently captivating audiences with her Ultrasound World Tour, supporting her latest album, “Virgin.” For Lorde, performing transcends mere entertainment; it is about forging connections and establishing a profound emotional atmosphere for her fans.
In a candid interview with Variety, published recently, Lorde revealed that her decision to tape her chest during her performance of “Man of the Year” is rooted in both vulnerability and empowerment. This powerful gesture was one she envisioned even before the album’s release, as it represents a unique and intimate aspect of her artistry.
Lorde shared how this act, which she described as an image she’d never encountered before, makes her feel like a rockstar. “It just felt incredibly vulnerable and powerful to me,” she expressed, highlighting the remarkable connection she feels with her audience when they, too, engage in the same act by taping their chests.
The singer described the atmosphere during these performances, noting that the collective experience creates an electrifying and raw energy in the venue. “I become powerful,” she said, acknowledging the transformative effect it has on her throughout the song. “It’s just such a raw image,” she added, affirming her belief that this level of authenticity is precisely what she aims to convey in her artistic endeavors.
Lorde first taped her chest in 2023, coinciding with her process of writing “Man of the Year.” She revealed in a conversation with Dazed that this moment allowed her to connect with a “very pure version” of herself. She spoke about exploring her identity in therapy and how this personal journey informed her artistic vision. During the writing of the song, she even envisioned a performance in which she appeared in jeans with no shirt, leading her to embrace this unique expression of self.
Her exploration of identity is a recurring theme in her work. Earlier this year, a conversation she had with Chappell Roan for Rolling Stone sparked discussions regarding her evolving pronouns. Lorde clarified that her identity is something that continues to develop, acknowledging the uncertain and transformative nature of her journey. “I have no idea where it’s gonna go; it doesn’t feel like I’ve arrived anywhere permanent at all,” she stated, emphasizing the ongoing exploration of her identity.
Overall, Lorde’s commitment to authenticity and vulnerability resonates deeply with her audience, offering not only a captivating performance but also fostering a sense of shared experience and understanding in the midst of her journey of self-discovery.