About the song
“New Rules” is one of the defining tracks of British singer-songwriter Dua Lipa’s career, marking a pivotal moment in her rise to global stardom. Released as the third single from her self-titled debut album Dua Lipa in 2017, the song became an international hit, reaching top positions on the charts worldwide. With its infectious chorus, empowering lyrics, and sleek, dance-pop production, “New Rules” not only propelled Lipa’s career to new heights but also became an anthem for many, especially women seeking empowerment and independence in the face of heartache.
Background and Creation
“New Rules” was written by Dua Lipa, Caroline Ailin, and Emily Warren, with the production handled by Trevor Brown, who was known for working with artists like Major Lazer and MØ. The song was conceived during a time when Lipa was exploring the themes of personal growth, independence, and the complexity of modern relationships. The song’s development took place in the context of Lipa’s experience as a young woman navigating heartbreak and the lessons learned from ending a toxic relationship.
Lipa has stated that “New Rules” is inspired by her own experiences and those of her friends, especially the cycle of getting back together with someone who is ultimately not right for them. The song came about as a way to help women, including herself, break free from patterns of unhealthy relationships by creating their own “rules” for self-protection and empowerment. The idea was to give listeners the tools to stay strong and not fall back into old habits.
Lyrics and Themes
The lyrics of “New Rules” revolve around a theme of self-empowerment, particularly in the context of overcoming the emotional challenges of a breakup. The song’s protagonist addresses the internal struggle of wanting to return to an ex who has hurt her, but ultimately deciding to stay strong and move on. The iconic chorus, which repeats “I got new rules, I count ’em,” serves as a reminder that there are rules in place to help resist the temptation to fall back into unhealthy habits. These “new rules” are both a personal mantra and a reminder of the strength needed to leave a toxic relationship behind.
The song’s empowering message resonates with many listeners, particularly women, who have experienced the complexities of relationships and the challenges of moving on. Lipa’s declaration of independence and self-respect in “New Rules” turned it into an anthem of personal growth, making it a rallying cry for those who have been in emotionally turbulent relationships and have learned to prioritize their own well-being.
The song also explores themes of self-reliance and the importance of friendship in the healing process. The lyrics emphasize the importance of leaning on trusted friends for support during difficult times, as they play a crucial role in helping the protagonist stay strong and avoid falling back into old patterns.
Musical Style and Production
“New Rules” is characterized by its sleek, dance-pop production, which incorporates elements of tropical house and electronic music. The track opens with a catchy, infectious beat that sets the tone for the rest of the song. The production features a blend of airy synths, rhythmic basslines, and a smooth, danceable groove, all of which contribute to the song’s upbeat and energetic feel.
What makes the song stand out is its distinctive vocal delivery and the layered production. Lipa’s deep, sultry voice contrasts perfectly with the light, airy elements of the production, creating a dynamic contrast that gives the song its unique sound. The track’s chorus is undeniably catchy, with its repetitive, sing-along-friendly melody that ensures it sticks with the listener long after the song has ended.
In addition, the production’s minimalism allows Lipa’s voice to shine through, with each line resonating with emotional depth while maintaining the song’s energetic vibe. The combination of electronic influences and danceable beats helped “New Rules” become a global hit, dominating both pop and dance charts.
Commercial Success
Upon its release, “New Rules” became a commercial breakthrough for Dua Lipa, catapulting her into international stardom. The song peaked at number six on the UK Singles Chart and reached number one in countries such as Ireland, Croatia, and New Zealand. It was also a major success in the United States, where it reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and became Lipa’s first entry in the top 10 on the chart.
“New Rules” was widely recognized for its success across streaming platforms as well, accumulating millions of plays on Spotify and YouTube. It quickly became a fan favorite and one of the most streamed songs of 2017. The song’s popularity continued to grow, thanks in part to its massive success in the dance-pop genre, which resonated with listeners looking for catchy, empowering anthems.
The song’s success also led to its certification as Platinum in multiple countries, including the UK, the US, and Canada. In addition, it was nominated for several awards, further cementing Lipa’s place as one of the leading voices in contemporary pop music.
Critical Reception
Critics lauded “New Rules” for its combination of catchy pop hooks and its empowering message. Many praised Lipa’s vocal performance, which was seen as mature and confident, and the song’s production for its modern, sleek sound. The track was often described as a perfect blend of upbeat dance-pop and emotionally resonant lyrics, making it both a radio hit and a song that listeners could connect with on a personal level.
The song was also praised for its feminist undertones and its focus on female empowerment. Critics noted that “New Rules” was a refreshing take on the typical breakup song, offering a message of strength and independence rather than sadness and vulnerability. This perspective resonated particularly with young women who felt that the song gave them a sense of empowerment and agency in their own relationships.
Music Video
The music video for “New Rules,” directed by Henry Scholfield, visually complements the song’s themes of independence and self-empowerment. It features Dua Lipa in various scenes, including a surreal, dreamlike setting where she is surrounded by women who offer her support as she navigates a tumultuous relationship. The video’s visual aesthetic is sleek and modern, featuring bold, colorful lighting and synchronized choreography. The imagery reinforces the song’s message of building self-confidence and strength through unity and friendship.
The video also features one of the most iconic dance sequences in recent memory, with Lipa and her backup dancers performing synchronized choreography. This iconic dance move became widely imitated, adding to the song’s viral appeal and further solidifying its place in pop culture.
Cultural Impact
“New Rules” had a significant cultural impact, particularly among young women. The song’s message of empowerment resonated strongly with those seeking to reclaim their personal strength and independence after heartbreak or toxic relationships. It became a symbol of self-respect and resilience, and its catchy melody made it an anthem at clubs, parties, and personal playlists around the world.
The song also helped to establish Dua Lipa as a leading force in pop music, known not only for her distinctive voice but also for her ability to craft songs that both entertain and empower. “New Rules” continues to be a staple in Lipa’s live performances, where it serves as a crowd favorite and a reminder of the singer’s rise to prominence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “New Rules” is a standout song in Dua Lipa’s catalog, combining infectious pop production with an empowering message that resonates deeply with listeners. The song’s success marked a turning point in Lipa’s career, elevating her to global stardom and becoming a quintessential anthem for independence and personal growth. With its memorable melody, powerful message, and relatable lyrics, “New Rules” remains one of the defining pop tracks of the 21st century.