- Royals (audio) — Lorde

At its core, "Royals" is a masterclass in "less is more." Produced by , the track strips away the high-energy synths common in 2013 pop, leaving only a snapping beat and Lorde’s distinctive, layered vocals. The Beat: Simple, hip-hop-influenced percussion. The Bass: Deep, humming synth pulses that drive the melody.

Mentions of "gold teeth," "Grey Goose," and "tripping in the bathroom." Lorde - Royals (Audio)

Acknowledging that she and her friends "don't care" because they’ll "never be royals." At its core, "Royals" is a masterclass in "less is more

Here's Why Lorde Didn't Work With Jack Antonoff on 'Virgin' - Billboard Mentions of "gold teeth," "Grey Goose," and "tripping

It became a rallying cry for a generation that felt sidelined by mainstream aspirational culture. A Lasting Legacy

Even years later, the audio remains a staple for anyone looking to understand the turning point where pop music regained its introspective, moody edge. Lorde continues to evolve her sound, most recently exploring new directions on her 2025 album Virgin .