Lorde Opens Glastonbury With Surprise ‘Virgin’ Set

Lorde surprised early risers this morning (June 27) at the opening day of the U.K.’s massive Glastonbury Festival with a set on the Woodsies stage, during which she performed her brand new album, Virgin, in its entirety.

“Thank you so much for being with us on the day that Virgin is born,” the New Zealand-reared singer told the crowd. “We decided to play the whole record for you, front to back. This may be a one of one, you know? I didn’t know if I’d make another record to be honest, but I am back here, completely free. And I’m so grateful to you for waiting.”

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None of the 11 Virgin songs had been played at a proper concert before today’s set, which concluded with the vintage favorites “Ribs” and “Green Light.”

Glastonbury continues today with performances by the 1975 and Alanis Morissette and will also feature Neil Young, Olivia Rodrigo, Rod Stewart and Charli xcx throughout the weekend.

As for Lorde, she will embark on an extensive world tour in support of Virgin beginning Sept. 17 in Austin, Tx. The European segment of the jaunt will start Nov. 9 in Luxembourg and conclude Dec. 9 in Stockholm.

Among the opening acts are Blood Orange and Jim-E Stack, both of whom contributed to Virgin, as well as the Japanese House, Nilüfer Yana, Chanel Beads, Empress Of and Oklou.