Lorde Releases Final Pre-Album Single Hammer Ahead Virgin Launch

Lorde has released "Hammer," the final pre-release single and opening track from her upcoming fourth album, Virgin, which will launch on June 27, 2025. Described by Lorde as "an ode to city life and horniness," the euphoric song was co-produced by Lorde and Jim-E Stack and explores themes including gender fluidity, reflecting Lorde's own evolving relationship with gender identity. The music video for "Hammer," directed by Renell Medrano and shot at London's Hampstead Heath, features Lorde with braided pigtails and pigeons, complementing the song's urban vibe. Virgin follows her 2021 album Solar Power and includes contributions from producers like Fabiana Palladino, Andrew Aged, Buddy Ross, Daniel Nigro, and Devonté Hynes of Blood Orange. Lorde has been actively promoting the album through surprise performances and listening parties across Australia and New Zealand, and she will embark on an international Ultrasound World Tour starting in September, with several notable opening acts. The album also touches on personal experiences such as disordered eating, quitting birth control, and ending a long-term relationship.