Lorde Reveals Heartbreaking Song 'Big Star' Was Written For Her Dog Pearl

On Friday (August 20), Lorde released her highly anticipated third album Solar Power. In accompanying notes for the project, Lorde revealed the inspiration behind one of Solar Power's most heartbreaking tracks.

In 'Big Star,' Lorde sings about being changed after a special someone comes into your life. Upon first listen, it's easy to assume the 24-year-old pop star is talking about a romantic partner. When discussing the song's meaning, though, Lorde revealed the lyrics describe the profound bond she shared with her late dog Pearl.

"This song is about my dog, my beautiful boy Pearl who I love so much and miss every day," she revealed "I wrote it before he died, before I knew there was anything wrong with him. I wrote this at home on the piano. I remember he was lying underneath it, I looked down and was like: 'You big dummy. You're never going to know that I'm writing this song about how much I love you.'"

In 2019, Lorde shared the sad news of Pearl's passing with her followers, explaining her album would likely be delayed as a result. "Some of you may know about Pearl, my dog. Pearl came into my life in 2018, and almost immediately changed everything for me," she began. "As anyone who has had the pleasure of raising a dog can understand, my life grew exponentially."

"Pearl brought an immeasurable amount of joy and purpose into my world," she continued. "I have lost my boy, and I need some time to see the good again, to finish making this [album] for you. It won't be the same work — as anyone who has felt loss can understand, there's a door that opens that you step through, and everything is different on the other side."

Lorde's deep love for Pearl is clear in both the music and lyrics of 'Big Star.' Remember to grab some tissues before you hit play on this one.