Grammy-winning singer Lorde sets trends with her look, but her distinct style once had teachers’ fingers wagging.
An insight into the New Zealand singing star’s roots was shown on CNN International today, which is watched by more than 260 million people around the world.
London-based broadcaster Neil Curry visited the 17-year-old’s former Auckland schools at the start of February to film a piece for the global news network.
The story features Lorde’s teachers and friends at Belmont Intermediate and Takapuna Grammar.
Takapuna Grammar student Madeleine Christy recalled performing in a rock band with her friend Lorde, real name Ella Yelich-O’Connor.
“She was always getting in trouble for her uniform, always wearing bracelets and necklaces,” she told CNN.
Acting principal Bryan Wynn said Lorde liked to bend the rules by wearing Dr Marten shoes.
He would give her a “gentle reminder”, with which she responded with a smile, he said.
CNN also visited Belmont Intermediate to listen to students sing Lorde’s hit song Royals at an assembly.
Her former music teacher Jenny Bezuidenhout said Lorde continued to inspire students.
“We’re all overjoyed,” she said.
“This is like having a Michael Jackson among us.”
It seems the star-status hasn’t changed the Auckland singer’s attitude.
Friend Albert Cho told CNN he had spoken with Lorde the night before the interview.
“She was so cool and exactly the same,” he said.
The CNN clip was broadcast in the leadup to Lorde’s appearance at the BRIT Awards tomorrow.
Lorde is performing at the music awards with British duo Disclosure.
She is nominated for international female solo artist.
Last month she won Grammys for Best Pop Solo Performance and with writer Joel Little won Song of the Year.
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