Lana Del Rey, the enigmatic figure of contemporary music, is once again set to captivate listeners with her forthcoming tenth studio album, *The Right Person Will Stay*, scheduled for release on May 21, 2025. An artist known for her ability to weave tales filled with melancholy and longing, Del Rey has announced a refreshingly introspective direction for this project. In a recent Instagram revelation that took place in November 2024, she confirmed the album will encompass 13 original tracks produced in collaboration with stalwarts like Jack Antonoff, Zach Dawes, Drew Erickson, and Luke Laird. This blend of talent hints at an intriguing alchemy, combining classic Americana with a fresh perspective.
Del Rey’s announcement has inevitably sparked conversation, especially after months of speculations surrounding her previously hinted country-influenced project, *Lasso*. At the 2024 Billboard x NMPA Songwriter Awards, she described a vision of embracing a classic country sound — an idea that she later reconsidered. In her candid dialogue with *Vogue Italia*, Del Rey expressed a pivotal moment of reflection, stating, “I stopped because I didn’t recognize myself.” This admission illustrates not only her artistic evolution but also her commitment to authenticity. Instead of dwelling on the trappings of a genre that felt alien, Del Rey opted to redefine her sound, allowing *The Right Person Will Stay* to embody the essence of the artist she is today.
The Shift towards Southern Gothic
The transition from *Lasso* to *The Right Person Will Stay* marks more than just a change in name; it signifies Del Rey’s desire to delve deeper into her personal experiences and artistic evolution. The album is hinted to embrace a Southern gothic aesthetic, which implies a textured richness, blending the eerie with the soulful. This shift is particularly poignant given her recent life events, notably her marriage to Jeremy Dufrene, which may serve as an emotional backdrop for her upcoming music.
The title itself suggests a thematic introspection, hinting at lessons learned and connections made in her journey through life. While some fans may mourn the cowboy-inspired narrative initially proposed, the new direction seems to promise much more than a simple stylistic phase. Instead, it seems poised to explore the complexities of relationships, identity, and the passage of time. Del Rey’s music has always been a mirror reflecting the human experience, and with this latest endeavor, listeners can expect a potent reflection that resonates on multiple levels.
A Glimpse at New Sounds
In preparation for her album release, Del Rey has already begun teasing new music, with her single “Henry, Come On” expected to embody the gentle themes characteristic of her dreamy Americana style. The anticipation surrounding the single has been palpable, especially after its teasing reveal on Instagram in January 2024, generating excitement among her fanbase. The cover art for “Henry, Come On,” revealed on March 26, 2025, showcases visually the depth of emotion Del Rey continues to evoke through her imagery and music.
Despite the enthusiasm, Del Rey has emphasized her commitment to patience in her creative process, stating, “I think all the songs have been Americana.” Her reluctance to rush the album’s completion signals not just a mindful approach to production, but also an understanding of the importance of delivering polished artistry rather than “half-cooked” ideas. Furthermore, collaborating with Luke Laird, a well-known country music producer, suggests that elements of country could elegantly intertwine with Del Rey’s established sensibilities, enhancing the narrative without overshadowing her signature sound.
Anticipation Builds
With planned appearances at major venues, including headlining California’s Stagecoach festival and a stadium tour across the U.K. and Ireland in June, the coming months promise a bounty of revelations and glimpses into the new chapter of Lana Del Rey’s music. As her tenth studio album edges closer to its release, the excitement only builds, as fans eagerly await the uncovering of an auditory landscape rich with both introspection and soul.
In a discography already filled with critical acclaim, including masterpieces like *Born to Die* and *Norman Fucking Rockwell!*, *The Right Person Will Stay* is set to challenge not only Del Rey’s artistic limits but also the expectations of her audience, reaffirming her status as a leading voice in modern music, continually seeking both truth and transcendence.