The New York City Police Department shut down a surprise performance by pop star Lorde, which would've promoted the New Zealand singer-songwriter's new song "What Was That" for fans who gathered in droves inside the city's Washington Square Park.

However, it turns out Lorde didn’t get a permit for this particular gathering, and the event was promptly shut down by police. “A sound and parks permit is required to have a concert in a New York City Park,” an NYPD officer told Vulture. “This individual did not possess either.”

As Charli XCX bids farewell to brat summer, it’s Lorde ’s turn to kickstart a new musical era and be the face of summer 2025. The Grammy winner brought fans together to debut her latest track, “What Was That,” at Washington Square Park in New York City before it officially drops on Friday, April 25.