Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
“Lorde performed her unreleased track ‘What Was That’ live at Washington Square Park.”
Lorde still managed to delight her fans at Washington Square Park, even after her surprise appearance was cut short by the NYPD.
The 28-year-old Solar Power artist had hinted at the impromptu gathering earlier that day via an Instagram story, inviting followers to join her in the New York City park at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22. The event was tied to the rollout of her new single, “What Was That,” her first release since 2021.
Crowds began assembling by 6:47 p.m., eager to catch a glimpse of the singer. However, authorities shut the event down shortly after. An NYPD spokesperson told PEOPLE that officers responded to reports of an unpermitted performance. “Concerts in NYC parks require both sound and park permits,” they stated. “Since those weren’t obtained, organizers were informed the event couldn’t go forward, and they left the area.”
Lorde remained composed during the police intervention, sharing an Instagram story that read, “Omg @thepark the cops are shutting us down.” She followed up with a heartfelt message: “I’m honestly blown away by how many of you came out!!! But they’re asking everyone to leave… I’m really sorry.”
Despite the lack of a permit, the spontaneous event wasn’t entirely derailed, Vulture reported. At around 8 p.m., Lorde’s longtime collaborator Blood Orange (Dev Hynes) showed up with a handheld radio and played her upcoming track. Then, around 9:30 p.m., Lorde returned to the park to perform the song herself, dancing and singing to the delight of those still gathered.
“You guys are incredible,” she told fans, according to video clips captured by the crowd. “I love you all so much.” Attendees lingered for hours, with some even scaling trees to get a better view of the impromptu performance.
The night before, Lorde had been seen courtside at a New York Knicks game alongside her sister, Indy Yelich, according to Harper’s Bazaar. Just over a week earlier, she made a surprise appearance at Charli XCX’s Coachella set on April 13, joining her for their viral duet, “Girl, So Confusing.”
