Key Highlights
- Lorde performed a sold-out concert at the historic Greek Theatre in Berkeley on October 19, 2025.
- The singer-songwriter performed all 11 tracks from her latest album “Virgin” during the show.
- “Royals” remained one of the crowning musical achievements of the new millennium and a highlight of the concert.
- Lorde’s voice was pristine, and she delivered an intimate yet powerful performance that resonated with the audience.
A Journey Through Time: Lorde’s Return to the Greek Theatre
On October 19, 2025, New Zealand-born pop sensation Lorde graced the historic stage of the Greek Theatre in Berkeley for a night that would be remembered as one of her most significant performances. The venue, often referred to as “the most beautiful venue in the world,” holds a special place in Lorde’s heart, dating back to her debut performance there over a decade ago.
Setting the Stage: A Minimalist Approach
The concert began with “Hammer.” Standing on a mostly dark stage, Lorde captivated the audience from the start. The stark lighting and shadows enhanced the dramatic atmosphere of the song, creating an almost ethereal presence. This minimalist approach to her performance was reflective of her musical ethos—simplifying elements while ensuring each moment resonated deeply with listeners.
Highlighting New and Old
The setlist was a masterful blend of new material from her 2025 album “Virgin” alongside timeless classics. Lorde opened with the new track “Broken Glass,” followed by her iconic hit, “Royals.” The latter brought the crowd to their feet, as they sang along to every word. This performance underscored why “Virgin” is one of the best albums of 2025, showcasing Lorde’s ability to craft both radio-friendly hits and profound, thought-provoking tracks.
A Reflective Performance
Throughout the show, Lorde’s voice remained strong and clear. She moved seamlessly between new songs like “Favourite Daughter” and older favorites such as those from her landmark albums “Pure Heroine” (2013) and “Melodrama” (2017). The setlist included a mix of 15 new and old tracks, providing the audience with an immersive journey through Lorde’s career. Her ability to connect with the crowd was evident in every moment, from her intimate performances like “Ribs,” where she sang from her knees, to the high-energy dance party that ensued after “Green Light.”
Lorde expressed her gratitude for this opportunity, saying, “The older I get, I think it’s really important to come full circle with certain moments of life— to revisit something that happened 10 or 12 years ago and feel what is the same and what is different.” This sentiment echoed throughout the performance, as Lorde reflected on her journey and celebrated both the past and present.
A Night to Remember
The concert ended with a powerful rendition of “Ribs,” during which Lorde ventured into the crowd before returning to the stage. The extended take allowed the audience to experience the song in its entirety, adding depth and emotion to the performance. Lorde’s return to the Greek Theatre was not just a celebration but a reminder of her enduring talent and connection with her fans.
For Lorde, this performance marked a significant milestone.
It reaffirmed her status as one of the most influential pop artists in contemporary music, and for the audience, it was an unforgettable night that encapsulated both nostalgia and new beginnings. As Lorde takes her career to new heights, the Greek Theatre remains a cherished landmark, symbolizing not only her past triumphs but also the promise of many more exciting performances to come.
