Royals
by Lorde
What is “Royals” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “Royals” by Lorde is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
Royals' by Lorde critiques the glamorous lifestyles often depicted in pop culture, expressing a preference for a simpler, more genuine life.
So… what’s this song really about?
In 'Royals,' Lorde addresses the discrepancy between real life and the opulent lifestyles often glorified in media and pop music. She and her friends, representing ordinary youth, feel disconnected from the extravagant images of 'gold teeth,' 'Cristal,' and 'Maybach' that dominate the songs they hear. Instead of aspiring to unattainable luxury, they embrace their reality and dream of a different kind of greatness—celebrating their identity and existence away from societal pressures of wealth and status. Lorde's message resonates with a generation that sees value in authenticity over materialism, where being 'royal' is not about wealth or titles, but about self-empowerment and living one's truth.
Through a catchy chorus and vivid contrasts, Lorde articulates a youthful disillusionment with consumer culture while simultaneously crafting a new, inclusive narrative of success. The song emphasizes an emotional satisfaction derived from personal achievements and self-acceptance rather than the superficial buzz of luxury. 'Royals' thus stands as an anthem for a demographic seeking to redefine what it means to feel accomplished and influential in a society saturated with often unattainable ideals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What year was 'Royals' by Lorde released?
'Royals' was released in 2013.
Q: What awards has Lorde's song 'Royals' won?
'Royals' won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance in 2014.
Lyrics to “Royals”
232 ContributorsTranslations
[Verse 2]
My friends and I, we've cracked the code
We count our dollars on the train to the party
And everyone who knows us knows
That we're fine with this, we didn't come from money
[Pre-Chorus]
But every song's like
Gold teeth, Grey Goose, trippin' in the bathroom
Bloodstains, ball gowns, trashin' the hotel room
We don't care, we're driving Cadillacs in our dreams
But everybody's like
Cristal, Maybach, diamonds on your timepiece
Jet planes, islands, tiger's on a gold leash
We don't care, we aren't caught up in your love affair
[Chorus]
And we'll never be royals (Royals)
It don't run in our blood
That kind of luxe just ain't for us
We crave a different kind of buzz
Let me be your ruler (Ruler)
You can call me queen bee
And baby, I'll rule (I'll rule, I'll rule, I'll rule)
Let me live that fantasy
[Bridge]
(Oh, oh-oh)
We're bigger than we ever dreamed
And I'm in love with being queen
(Oh, oh-oh)
Life is great without a care
We aren't caught up in your love affair
[Chorus]
And we'll never be royals (Royals)
It don't run in our blood
That kind of luxe just ain't for us
We crave a different kind of buzz
Let me be your ruler (Ruler)
You can call me queen bee
And baby, I'll rule (I'll rule, I'll rule, I'll rule)
Let me live that fantasy
[Produced by Joel Little]
[Video by Joel Kefali]