Lorde

Dear Ella,

Hi neighbour. Well, OK you’re not exactly a neighbour. You live on The Shore and I live out East. But we both live in Auckland and now you’re a big name in the country where I was born.

Let me say up front… I’m old enough to be your father, if I listen to “pop” music at all it is generally “pop” music from the 80’s, and more often you will find me listening to classical or jazz. That being said, I have listened to your album Pure Heroine. Actually, I’ve listened to it several times. I’ve also read a few “lyrics” sites trying to get an accurate picture of the content of your songs.

From what I can tell critics, fans, and just about everyone (except Miley Cyrus, I guess) are very excited about this album and particularly your first two singles, Royals & Tennis Court. People seem to be gushing over everything from your voice, your age, being from New Zealand, all that hair, the rhythms, the lyrics, and more!

I will admit the rhythms in your songs are captivating. Certainly a breath of fresh air compared to most of the other noise that is played over the airwaves today claiming to be music.

However, I was more interested in your lyrics. And your future.

I was drawn to listen as I wondered, “what does a kid from The North Shore sing about?” I see many are saying you “capture what it is like to be young.” I suppose that is true to some extent.

Here are some of my thoughts as I’ve listened to and read your lyrics.

Firstly, profanity. I remember when it was hugely controversial when rap artists would use profanity in their songs and even then the “F” word was rare. As I listened to Tennis Court, which is being played over the sound systems of shops everywhere and heard that word, I thought “I guess it is just commonplace today for a 16 year old girl to use profanity publicly, no one even thinks twice about it.”

Secondly, rebellion. Of course, rebellion almost defines being young. Yet, it is difficult at times to tell what you are rebelling against. Are you rebelling against the sensational lifestyles of pop stars? Are you rebelling against the restrictive expectations of older adults? Are you rebelling against all that is going wrong in the world?

Thirdly, drinking. In at least two of your tracks you make direct reference to drinking and it seems to be clear that you’re not referring to ginger beer. In A World Alone and 400 Lux your lyrics clearly glamorize drinking. In 400 Lux is seems like the drinking is occurring in a car to make matters even worse. In a country that already has a serious teen drinking problem this is very disappointing.

Fourthly, despair. This is the most significant to me. In Buzzcut Season you sound like a girl who is unable to find meaning in life, so you just live by the pool and try to ignore reality. In Still Sane you sound like a young lady who is trying to convince yourself that you won’t become the next teen pop star whose life will end in a complete mess, yet you don’t seem to believe your own rhetoric. In White Teeth Teens you sound like a teen who hasn’t fit in with a particular crowd at school and you are desperately trying to convince yourself that it’s OK not to.

Here’s something to think about, Ella. You’ve shared your thoughts with the world in the form of music and you are going to make a lot of money as a result. Yet, you will still have your thoughts. When the applause stops and the cheers fade away for that day and you put your head on your pillow at night you will still have your thoughts.

Is there meaning in life? Is there a way to make sense of all that is happening in the world? Why doesn’t sex, drinking, partying, fame, money, etc. provide lasting relief from all that seems so messed up in your world?

Let me suggest something to you. There is meaning in life and there is a way to make since of everything and there is a reason why nothing in this world really satisfies.

You see, Ella, you were created by God (the God of the Bible), in His image, and for His glory.

He has made you so that you will never be satisfied until you are satisfied in Him. Yet, you have been determined to live your life without Him, to find satisfaction in all the things He has given but without acknowledging Him. You have sinned against your Creator, the One who is truly Royal, Who rules the Universe from His throne, and promises no crown to those who will not bow their knee to Him.

Yet, at the same time, this same God sent His Son, Jesus Christ into this world. He left His throne, set aside His crown so to speak, put of His royalty, to die on the cross in the place of sinners. More than that, He didn’t stay dead, He rose again in three days conquering sin and death so that all those who confess their sins and trust in Him can have eternal life and find true, lasting satisfaction.

Ella, I doubt you will ever see this letter, yet maybe you will. I am sure some teen and pre-teen girls who love your music will.

For whoever is reading this. Please consider the wonderful news that Jesus died so that your sins can be forgiven and you can find real joy, not only for this life, but for all eternity.

Ella – if you’re ever in the neighbourhood feel free to drop in for a cup of tea (my address is in the book, I don’t have “postcode envy” either) or pop into a service at the church where I serve as a pastor – Howick Baptist Church.

More importantly, get a Bible (there might be one in a drawer in one of the hotel rooms where you are staying), find the Gospel of Mark and start reading about Jesus, then find a Christian who you can talk to about your thoughts.

Kind Regards,

Joe Fleener

I like your songs

Now i'm kind of confused. Do you even read these or are these comments just things to make us middle-class folk think we actually mean something as fans? If you do then i just want to thank you for all of the music that you make.. I battle depression and when i listen to your songs and hearing your voice just brings a smile to my face. I don't mean to sound condescending, seeing as i'm only 20, but for being 18 now right? You are one of the most naturally talented artists of this generation that actually makes good music. I appreciate that you actually sing with a purpose rather than just making random songs. You are definitely one of my favorites and i just want to thank you for actually making good music, even though i doubt you'll actually read this. :)

Uhh ella do you even read these or see these?? If so please do me a HUGE favor and follow me on instagram @lorde.ella_ Please please please thankyou I love you so much

Dear Ella A.K.A. Lorde,

Where to start. I love your music, it's so inspiring and deep. Your one of the only artists now a days that actually makes beautiful and meaningful music. Your are my favourite singer EVER!

I'm not going to tell you a soppy story about me being bullied or any of that. Not that, that is a bad thing. But I have this problem where I always want to know what people think of me. And without asking people, I automatically assume that I'm not cool, 'hipster' and I'm weird. I don't know why but I always feel that if I wear a certain piece of clothes. That I'm going to be judged. Your probably wondering what this has got to do with you, Lorde.
Well I always know that when I get home I won't be judged and can sing my heart out to your songs. But then I go back to school and sometimes feel embarassed because people think I'm gay because I listen to Lorde. I want to say that, 'Lorde is for all genders, all ages and all sexualities!' I want to think that but, I can't handle it.

Enough of my 'soppy' story. I hope you read this.
See ya!!!
~Jacob~

Lorde, I saw your recent posting about your eye and skin. If you don't know what is wrong with you, I sincerely think you should get yourself checked out. It could be an autoimmune disease, maybe even Lupus like I have (and apparently also Selena Gomez?). See a rheumatologist, that isn't normal and I don't think that it will go away on it's own.

Hi Ella. If you don't know me I'm a youtuber my YouTube name is the girlz. Well I'm not exactly a girl. I am a boy. I'm 10 years old and I am willing to be a mucician actor and comedian with the help of the musician mike de Velta. Lorde I love your singing your song writing is like the story of my life. It's funny cuz when I searched your real name me and you have the same last name (O'Connor). I hope you go on well with your career.

Ps I know you will be successful in your career.

Love your biggest fan Tadhg oconnor/McManus

You know...
America Loves you
Because
You're just...
A Queen
A Singer
A Dancer
An Entertainer
But most of all...
You're someone we want to see more of.
Keep being awesome! Stay smart, strong, and encouraging!

~We all honor you, Lorde.

Regards, Marquis McKinnies

I've been wondering if you are going to come out wih a new album. I liked the first one and I was wondering if you are making a new one.

I would like to share some things about my life and family. At the age of 5 I lost my mother to cancer.

My father raised my younger sister and me by himself for several years. He remarried for a short time.

We were happy to have a stepmother but sad when that marriage ended in a divorce. The divorce was

difficult for the whole family. Soon after, my father was out of work for a number of years. During this

time I was diagnosed with a learning disorder which made school a challenge. With support and hard

work, I was able to graduate from high school through a special program. Since that time my family

has fallen apart. My dad continues to struggle financially, is living in a small motor home and unable to

help me. At 21, I find myself living in a homeless shelter-Rachel’s Women’s Shelter, San Diego, CA. I

am having a difficult time adjusting as the average age of the women in the shelter is 55. All of the

above factors have led me to have stress and anxiety problems. I want to get healthy so I can move

forward. Although shelter life is difficult, I am grateful for counselors who have been trying to help me.

Even though my future is uncertain, I have set goals but need help in achieving them. I would like to

get into permanent housing. I also want to help other people in similar circumstances. This requires

returning to school to further my education. Again having been inspired and uplifted by how you reach

out to others has encouraged me to share my story with you. I would like to become a singer just like

you someday please email me back when you get this message because I would like to get some

training in how I can project my own voice.

You gave an awesome performance of "Is there Life on Mars?" You should feel great ....! Wishing you an abundance of love and joy...

Ella, I literally just came made a beat in 5 minutes and thought you would be perfect on it.
Where can I send it so you can hear it?!
Thanks.
KE

I don't know where to ask your permission to use the tune of Royal with some different words in my play about Queen Esther. I want to use it between scenes of all the trouble living at court and change words so it matches the story of the play. It is a non profit / synagogue play that will not charge money. It will be one time live streamed, but dvds given free to cast members. Please give me guidance.

I hope you two team up and go crazy with PR management. Hi. I'll keep this short. I am a bride less than 3 weeks away from hosting the wedding of the century (my own)! Ella & Taylor Swift need to crash my wedding for good PR. Please ask if they would like to be a part of our private yacht wedding as a guests not performers. I am a professional snowboard instructor and my husband to-be is a professional skateboarder who has been in Thrasher magazine. We love independent song writers and original, creative musicians, and are already inspired to play some of their hits (and Ed Sheeran's) at the wedding. Please let them all know the invitation is there, thank you.

I chatted with you, I took a picture with you. Your hair was braided you showed me pictures on your ipad. Even if this chick, was just some random cannon fodder mother fucker. If it was, then. Fuckin I dont care.

You need to make more songs because you are one of the best singers ever and have such a distinct voice!!!

So we have the same birthday, I was born in November 7th 1991. I would probably be super nervous and you probably won't even see this message. I'm just a good ol canadian, let's go on a date lol

Dear Lorde,
Lol
You're not "God" but you are a god. I love and am inspired by your music. I honestly fell in love with you after hearing you're voice and singing on your album, Pure heroine. I would love to collaborate with you, as i am a very well rounded musician and song writer. I'm an American 21 year old who would love to hear from you. Thanks, and i wish you well on your future endeavors. Either way, much love.

You have the same of My Birth Day

I'm filming from July to October and I want to use the song "liability reprise" in the soundtrack. How do I do this right? Thank you. Have a good day.

Hey Ella,
I’ve been meaning to write ever since I bought tickets to your Melodrama Perth concert. I have been counting down the days wishing for it to go faster with my friend! I’ve played your new album non stop ever since it came out. It’s the only thing I’ve been playing in my car since, apart from Pure Heroine.
I’ve known for a while now that we share the same birthday, even the same year! I can’t believe what you have achieved already, you’re a true inspiration! It would be a dream come true of mine if I could meet you at the Perth concert in person. I couldn’t find meet and greet tickets for this concert, but I would love to be able to meet you somehow!
You probably won’t even see this message, but I really hope it gets to you somehow! I’ve been messaging your different social media platforms, so I just thought why not try here in the hope you would see this :)
Your music has seen me through a lot of highs and lows and I always find myself getting more out of each song the more times I listen to them.
Thank you for everything,
Julia

Well done Lorde for cancelling your gig in israel. This is the best way to show you care about the plight of the Palestinians. And a good statement against the illegal occupation of Palestine. My best wishes for you future. I'll look forward to seeing you in concert in Ireland in the future.

You are too young to stand up to the Arab bullies.
We forgive you.

Sorry to hear about your Israeli trip cancellation based on wrong information.
FYI, when the League of Nations divided the middle east after WWI into states, they allocated the entire east and west bank as a Jewish Homeland. The neighboring Arab states have not agreed, because the land was considered theirs, since conquered in 600AD, despite 3000+ years of Jewish rule history. They have fought it 8 times and lost.
The Arab population in Israel enjoys equality like everybody else and refuses to relocate. But the Palestinian leaders refuse to recognize the right of Israel to exist, and therefore no negotiations are possible.
So the information about Israeli government’s policies of oppression, ethnic cleansing, human rights violations, occupation and apartheid are misleading and totally erroneous!!. When you visit there, you can find out for yourself.
Thanks for listening
Ari

YOU CANCELD ISRAEL AND LEAVE RUSSIA.
I WILL NEVER BUY YOUR CD OR GO TO ANOTHER OF YOUR CONCERTS AGAIN.

Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East where people are free to live and enjoy art. Woman are free.
Shame on you for giving in to the bullies. God bless Israel and Jews. You jump on that anti Jewish bandwagon.
Politics should be kept out of this, you should have played for your fans in Tel Aviv.
I will no longer be buying or listening to your music. You should have honoured your commitment instead of being bullied by extremists.
You clearly are someone who won’t stand by their convictions.

Hi--
In Saudi Arabia, women can't get a passport without their husband's or father's permission. In Iran, women get arrested for showing their hair in public. In Pakistan, women are married off at the age of 12. In Somalia, girls have their clitorises removed. And in Russia, people are assassinated when they criticize the government.
But you've chosen to side with people who boycott Israel--where women have more rights than dozens of countries, including Russia.
WHAT A COWARDLY, IGNORANT THING TO DO.

so disappointed in you. cancelling a trip to israel because of pressure from those who don't want peace.
can't believe you can't stand up for what's right and give your concert to the ONLY democracy in the middle east. i will not be listening to you anymore.

I want to thank you for two things.

First of all, I'm 67 and I love your music -- just like my neighbours who are 40, even 50, years younger. It's an amazing achievement that you create and perform music that appeals to so many people, in so many different age and ethnic and cultural groups. That's the essence of true music.

Second, I was sorry to hear you'd cancelled your Israeli concert, but I believe it was the only wise move to make. Trump has sowed division between Israel and not just Palestine but the Arab states generally. It's so disheartening to see the situation move backwards just when it seemed to be gaining some hope of a peaceful settlement. Without the option of a concert that would include both Israeli and Palestinian fans, it could only sow more division.

I hope it won't always be that way. I dream of a world where Israelis and Arabs could share Jerusalem, and peacefully attend and thoroughly enjoy the wonderful concert you could present. All I can suggest now, though, is that maybe these events could inspire a song about peace.

Wishing all the very best,
Hilarey

I want to tell you thank you for your courage to stand up to the US-supported injustices of occupation and deliberate oppression of the Palestinians by Israel. Your decision to look at both sides of the argument and make up your own mind is what we should all be doing! But instead any attempts at honest conversation and free speech are suffocated by Israel and it's cronies here in the USA. Look at how many states have made free speech illegal when it concerns Israel! BDS has nothing to do with hurting Israel. It is a peaceful way of bringing awareness for the Palestinian peoples who are living in apartheid conditions. BDS is about equality for everyone. Boycotting is a final resort tool used when logic, compassion and justice are ignored by the oppressors.
Thank you Lorde, for your strength to do the right thing. Brava!

Dear Lorde,
Congratulations on your decision to not play in Israel !
I know you will end up on the right side of history.
I think your amazing, and an inspiration for all ! Xxx

Hi Lorde,
I was so disappointed to see that you made a decision about canceling your performance in Israel without fully understanding the issues. I don't know if you are anti-Semitic, but your actions show that you are. I am boycotting your performance that I was invited to in Seattle because I cannot support your misinformed decision.

I’ve been a loyal fan. I have listened to your music so much that I know every word by heart. For a while, I drove my family crazy because you are all they heard day and night. I am deeply saddened by your poorly conceived actions against Israel. Before you make decisions isn’t it best to discover actual facts than rhetoric spewed by the biased or the uneducated? It may not mean much to you but you have lost a devoted fan. I’ve deleted all your music and I pray to EloHim for your forgiveness because those who curse Israel are therefore cursed by him.

Submitted by David McKinlay (not verified) on Thu, 06/07/2018 - 16:29

How about we stop beating you down, or idolize your music and just enjoy it. I can say I'm a 49 year old metal head that has been all about Disturbed, Godsmack , etc..... for years. My daughter first started playing your Royals song and I just loved the sound. Although for some reason that is my least favorite of all your songs and I'm not even sure why, because I truly love all of your songs. My friends think I have gone mad, but if you are next to me at a traffic light you will no longer see me banging my head to heavy metal.....but instead getting it to the beat of one of your songs. I missed you in Tacoma due to shoulder surgery, but I for one can't wait to hear more from you and look forward to you being here again. I won't miss your show next time !!! Keep doing what you do because it is truly amazing. Thank you

I have a nineteen yr old daughter. She has struggled with relationships and depression. I hear a lot of the things she has said in your lyrics. I just want you to know that there are people who love you. I'm not referring to me or your fans. There are people close to you that love you. It may be hard to see but they are there. And then there are your fans. You have helped me get closer to my daughter. You are an inspiration. Do not let haters or users break you down. I may be in my 40's but I love your music because of how real you are. Take care.

Im your typical Californian. I enjoy out of this world music, but today really I had the need to say that Lorde is the most amazing artist I have ever experienced. Like most of us, I would like to say I am knowledgeable of fantastic artists, but being a young female, I enjoy Lorde more than any other artist I’ve ever experienced. I just feel every word she sings in her songs. I love how dynamic and original her songs are. I guess you could say I’m lucky to be able to experience her music. I hope one day she can get this message so she realizes the impact she has on simple people like myself. If I could say anything to her, I would say thank you for making me feel emotions I didn’t realize I needed to feel. Thank you Lorde.

Hey Lorde my name in Jakob. I am 16 but wish i was your age;) Lorde, your music is amazing! I've been listening to it for a while now and will never get tired of it. Your music is so unique and relates to any mode or feels I have. I swear I'm your biggest fan, I Ik that u prob get that from a lot of people but unlike them, its true for me. I to do my own music stuff with Guitar, Piano, and song writing and always try to make it sound like yours, always trying to give it those low-key chill vibez. You've inspired me to do music that relates to people in many but also has that confident and prideful tone. I can't tell of how much I do wish to meet u in person. Like I don't think I could describe how mellow that would be. All I could say is that it would be a dream come. I would do anything to be able to make that dream come true. Your the best artist in the music industry. You top all others and non of them compare. Hope someday I could meet you in person. Lorde, ur my Lorde. P.S.- my favorite songs of your are Royal,(of coarse) Ribs, Liability, Tennis Court, The Love Club, Glory and Gore, and Homemade Dynamite. Those songs sum up my life and I still go brazy about all ur other!!!!