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Royals
Lorde
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- Album
- Pure Heroine
- Released
- 2013
- Genres
- Length
- 3:10
- Tempo
- 85 BPM
- Label
- Universal Music New Zealand Limited
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About this song
Royals is the lead single from Lorde's 2012 breakout EP The Love Club. It debuted at number one in New Zealand and eventually topped the Billboard Hot 100, ahead of Katy Perry's "Roar" and Miley Cyrus's "Wrecking Ball". The song was praised for its minimalistic beat and mature lyrics.
What it's about
Lorde has described the song as a lighthearted critique of hip-hop culture and fashion, poking fun at the idea that being cool requires certain cars, vodka and watches. That stance drew some critical backlash.
Fun facts
- Sampled in 12 other songs, like “Grey Streets In California by Lighty_Bud”.
- Covered 35 times, including “Royals by Fifth Harmony”.
- Written by Lorde and Joel Little.
- Produced by Joel Little.
- Recorded at Golden Age (Auckland.