If you’re a fan of pop music, you’ve probably heard of the name Dua Lipa lately. It sounds like a foreign stage name, but in truth it titles a growing pop sensation. Lipa is an English singer, songwriter, model and performer with roots from Kosovo. You might have seen her make her musical introduction on Saturday Night Live only a few weeks back. Her biggest claim to fame as of yet is her self-titled debut album “Dua Lipa,” a celebration of sultry pop vocals with an array of hits that double as anthems for young generations of women.
The deluxe album, released just last year, has 17 pop songs to promote. Her most popular song is titled “New Rules,” and utilizes a mantra-like chorus to console young girls about how to get over an ex. The beat is infectious and her voice is distinct and soulful. She laments that her love “makes me feel like nobody else,” but “he doesn’t love me so I tell myself,” setting up the chorus for her self-proclaimed rules. “One, don’t pick up the phone, you know he’s only calling cuz he’s drunk and alone. Two, don’t let him in, you’d have to kick him out again.” The song is undeniably pop, but once you accept that it’s hard not to be won over by the bold beats.
Lipa boasts quite a few more hits, like “IDGAF” (I don’t give a f—) and “Blow Your Mind (Mwah).” She has even filmed music videos for the three aforementioned hits, and each has garnered millions of views on Youtube. “New Rules” surpassed one billion views in 2018, which is enough to take notice.
Lipa also has a strong social media following on sites like Instagram, Youtube, Twitter and Snapchat. Her latest Instagram posts document her worldwide tour through stunning photographs, and easily rack up over 300,000 “likes.”
Like most female pop music Lipa’s topics revolve around pretty much one thing: boys. But that can be fun and cathartic for teenage girls, and seems to be winning over that exact demographic. Lipa is only 22 herself, and her exotic beauty and confident fashion sense is appealing to young girls across the world. She was the most nominated artist at the 2018 British Awards after snagging nominations for Best British Album, Best British Single, British Breakthrough, British Video of the Year and British Female Solo Artist.
She’s also making waves as a model, partnering with Adidas as a model and spokeswoman. Her colorful style is usually accompanied by their sneakers.
Lipa has collaborated with stars like Miguel and Martin Garrix, and has plans to continue expanding her reach. She has been spotted being friendly with Katy Perry, Natalie Portman and Sam Smith, and has most recently been featured on the Jimmy Kimmel Show and the Ellen Degeneres Show.
Lipa has proven herself as a rising star, and her fan base only continues to grow. Having already established international appeal with a worldwide tour and successful debut album, she’s definitely the one to watch.
