Early Life and Education of Lorde: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 23, 2026

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Lorde. From birth to education, explore key events.

Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O'Connor, professionally known as Lorde, is a New Zealand singer-songwriter recognized for her unique approach to pop music. Her work often features introspective and thoughtful songwriting, setting her apart in the contemporary music scene.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

November 1996: Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O'Connor Born

In November 1996, Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O'Connor was born in Takapuna, Auckland, New Zealand, to Sonja Yelich and Vic O'Connor.

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2002: Influence of the Novel Feed

In 2002, Lorde cited the young adult dystopian novel "Feed" by M. T. Anderson as an influence on her songwriting.

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2006: Third Place in Speech Competition

In 2006, while attending Vauxhall School, Lorde placed third in the North Shore Primary Schools' Speech competition.

2007: First Place in Speech Competition

In 2007, while attending Vauxhall School, Lorde placed first in the North Shore Primary Schools' Speech competition.

2010: Takapuna Grammar School Attendance

From 2010, Lorde attended Takapuna Grammar School.

2011: Vocal Coaching Begins

In 2011, Lorde started receiving singing lessons twice a week for a year from vocal coach Frances Dickinson, hired by UMG.

2013: Inclusion in 'Songs for the Philippines'

In 2013, "The Love Club" was included in the charity album Songs for the Philippines to support those affected by Typhoon Haiyan.

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2013: Completed Year 12 at Takapuna Grammar School

In 2013, Lorde completed Year 12 at Takapuna Grammar School.

December 2014: Parodied on South Park

Lorde was parodied in the South Park episode "Rehash", broadcast in December 2014.

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2014: Did Not Return to Takapuna Grammar School

In 2014, Lorde chose not to return to Takapuna Grammar School to attend Year 13.

2014: Parents' Engagement Announcement

In 2014, Lorde's parents, Sonja Yelich and Vic O'Connor, announced their engagement after a 30-year relationship.

2015: Recorded 'Team Ball Player Thing'

In 2015, Lorde recorded "Team Ball Player Thing", a charity single, as part of the supergroup Kiwis Cure Batten, to support research for Batten disease.

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January 2016: Relocation to Ponsonby

In January 2016, Lorde relocated to Ponsonby, an inner-city suburb of Auckland.

December 2017: Cancellation of Israel Concert

In December 2017, Lorde cancelled her scheduled June 2018 concert in Israel following an online campaign by Palestinian solidarity activists supporting the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign.