Royals

The harmony of 'Royals' is defined by its extreme restraint and modal character. By utilizing D Mixolydian, Lorde avoids the 'bright' or 'happy' leading-tone resolution of D Major (C# to D), instead opting for the 'cooler,' more grounded feel of the bVII (C major). The progression I-bVII-IV-I is a staple of rock and pop, but here it is stripped of traditional instrumentation (guitar/piano), relying on vocal stacks and sub-bass, which emphasizes the intervals of the chords over their texture.

Lorde wrote the lyrics to the song in July 2012 at her home in half an hour. She later collaborated with producer Joel Little at his Golden Age Studios to refine the music and structure. During a school break, the duo recorded the track in a single week, finishing the song along with others for her debut EP.

Released as Lorde's breakout single, 'Royals' challenged the glitzy status quo of 2010s radio with its sparse production and relatable anti-luxury lyrics. It transformed the landscape of modern music, paving the way for the rise of atmospheric, alternative-leaning pop superstars.