Lorde's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Lorde. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Lorde, born Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O'Connor, is a New Zealand singer-songwriter recognized for her unique brand of pop music. She is notable for introspective and unconventional songwriting. She is a prominent figure in contemporary music.

Sections (4)

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

1987: Lorde Youngest Artist since Tiffany to Top Charts

Following the success of "Royals", Lorde, at age 16, became the youngest artist since Tiffany in 1987 to achieve a number-one single in the United States, highlighting her rapid rise to fame.

2006: Third Place in Speech Competition

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

2007: First Place in Speech Competition

In 2007, while attending Vauxhall School, Lorde secured first place in the North Shore Primary Schools' Speech competition, a national contest, showcasing her public speaking skills.

2008: Adele's 19 Album Release

In February 2014, Lorde became the first female artist since Adele’s 2008 album "19" to have her debut album sell over one million copies in the United States.

2013: Commercial Release of The Love Club EP and Success of "Royals"

In 2013, "The Love Club EP" was commercially released following its initial free release, and the single "Royals" achieved significant success, topping charts and selling 10 million units worldwide, establishing Lorde as a major artist.

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2013: Billboard Names Lorde 'New Queen of Alternative'

In 2013, Billboard named Lorde the "New Queen of Alternative" in a cover story, recognizing her contribution to a "female rock resurgence."

2013: Named One of Time's Most Influential Teenagers

In 2013, Lorde was recognized by Time as one of the most influential teenagers, highlighting her significant impact at a young age.

February 2014: Pure Heroine Reaches One Million Sales in the US

In February 2014, "Pure Heroine" sold over one million copies in the United States, making Lorde the first female artist since Adele in 2008 to achieve this with a debut album.

2014: Listed in Time and Forbes

In 2014, Lorde was featured in both Time's list of most influential teenagers and Forbes' 30 Under 30, solidifying her status as a prominent young figure.

2014: Inclusion in Time and Forbes Lists

In 2014, Lorde was included in Time's list of most influential teenagers and Forbes' 30 Under 30, highlighting her significant impact as a young artist and entrepreneur.

2015: Featured on Billboard's 21 Under 21 List

In 2015, Lorde was featured on Billboard's 21 Under 21 list for the third consecutive year, underscoring her sustained influence and success in the music industry.

2015: Golden Globe Nomination and New Zealand Music Award

In 2015, Lorde's track "Yellow Flicker Beat" earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Original Song and won Single of the Year at the New Zealand Music Awards, marking her third consecutive win in that category.

May 2017: Pure Heroine Sales Reach Four Million Worldwide

As of May 2017, Lorde's debut album "Pure Heroine" had sold four million copies worldwide, indicating its lasting global appeal and success.

June 2017: Album Sales Milestone

As of June 2017, Lorde had sold over five million albums worldwide and 15 million certified single units in the United States.

2018: Placement on NPR's Influential Female Musicians Poll

In 2018, Lorde placed at number 12 on NPR's readers poll of the most influential female musicians of the 21st century, highlighting her influence on the music trends of the 2010s.