Dua Lipa, the British pop sensation, has taken the music industry by storm with her powerhouse vocals, charismatic stage presence, and anthems that dominate charts worldwide. Her journey from aspiring singer to global superstar is not only inspiring but also filled with fascinating stories about the songs that brought her fame. In this article, we dive deep into the story behind Dua Lipa’s biggest hits, exploring the creative processes, collaborations, and cultural impact that shaped her career.
Who Is Dua Lipa?
Dua Lipa, born on August 22, 1995, in London, England, to Albanian parents, grew up surrounded by a rich mix of cultures and music. Before her rise to stardom, she worked as a model and uploaded covers of songs on YouTube, showcasing her raw talent. In 2015, she signed with Warner Bros. Records and began crafting her signature sound—a blend of pop, disco, and electronic dance music.
1. “New Rules” (2017): The Breakout Anthem
Album: Dua Lipa
Writers: Caroline Ailin, Emily Warren, Ian Kirkpatrick
"New Rules" is the song that catapulted Dua Lipa into global stardom. Released as part of her debut self-titled album, the track became an anthem for empowerment and independence. The catchy lyrics and infectious beat resonated with listeners, particularly young women navigating relationships.
The Story Behind the Song
Dua Lipa described “New Rules” as a song meant to empower people to break free from toxic relationships. The idea stemmed from the universal struggle of resisting temptation and sticking to boundaries in romantic settings. Ian Kirkpatrick, the producer, explained that they wanted to create a song that felt modern yet timeless, blending tropical house vibes with a pop sensibility.
Cultural Impact
The music video, directed by Henry Scholfield, played a significant role in the song’s success. With its vibrant choreography and the depiction of female camaraderie, it became a viral sensation, amassing over 2 billion views on YouTube. The song's empowering message turned "New Rules" into a feminist anthem, earning Dua her first UK No. 1 single and charting in the top 10 globally.
2. “Don’t Start Now” (2019): The Disco Revival
Album: Future Nostalgia
Writers: Dua Lipa, Caroline Ailin, Emily Warren, Ian Kirkpatrick
“Don’t Start Now” is a glittering disco-inspired track that marked Dua’s reinvention with her sophomore album, Future Nostalgia. The song’s upbeat tempo and defiant lyrics set the tone for a new era in her career.
The Story Behind the Song
In interviews, Dua shared that “Don’t Start Now” was a declaration of moving on from a past relationship. Written with frequent collaborators Caroline Ailin and Emily Warren, the team wanted the song to exude confidence and resilience. Ian Kirkpatrick, who also produced “New Rules,” brought his signature polished production to the track, ensuring it would dominate radio airwaves and dance floors.
Reception and Legacy
“Don’t Start Now” became one of Dua’s most successful songs, reaching the top two spots on both the UK and US charts. Critics praised the song for its sleek production and its role in reviving disco-inspired pop music. It earned nominations for Record of the Year and Song of the Year at the Grammy Awards, solidifying Dua’s status as a global pop icon.
3. “Levitating” (2020): A Cosmic Dance Anthem
Album: Future Nostalgia
Writers: Dua Lipa, Clarence Coffee Jr., Sarah Hudson, Koz
“Levitating” is arguably one of the most defining hits of Dua Lipa’s career. The infectious, feel-good track blends disco and funk influences, creating a timeless party anthem.
The Story Behind the Song
Dua described “Levitating” as the first song written for Future Nostalgia. Inspired by 1970s disco and modern pop, she wanted to craft a track that felt joyful and optimistic. The song’s playful lyrics about love and escapism reflect her desire to create music that transports listeners to a happier place. Producers Koz and Stuart Price brought their expertise in dance music to give the track its pulsating rhythm and polished finish.
The TikTok Phenomenon
“Levitating” gained immense popularity on TikTok, with users creating thousands of dance challenges and remixes. The song's wide appeal extended beyond its catchy beat—it became a cultural moment. Featuring a remix with rapper DaBaby, the track spent 41 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 2, and became one of the most-streamed songs of 2021.
4. “Physical” (2020): A High-Energy Throwback
Album: Future Nostalgia
Writers: Dua Lipa, Jason Evigan, Sarah Hudson, Clarence Coffee Jr.
“Physical” is a high-octane anthem that pays homage to the 1980s with its synth-driven production and energetic vibe. Its title and sound are a nod to Olivia Newton-John’s 1981 hit of the same name.
The Story Behind the Song
Dua wanted “Physical” to embody the spirit of a workout anthem, reflecting both physical and emotional intensity. The writing team focused on creating a song that would make listeners feel empowered and energized. Jason Evigan, one of the songwriters, revealed that the team drew inspiration from 80s power pop to create its bold and dramatic sound.
Music Video Magic
The vibrant music video, filled with bold colors and dynamic choreography, brought the song to life. The visual aesthetic further emphasized Dua’s vision of blending nostalgic elements with contemporary flair. The song became a favorite among fans and critics alike, further cementing her position as a pop trendsetter.
5. “One Kiss” (2018): Collaboration with Calvin Harris
Album: Non-album single
Writers: Calvin Harris, Dua Lipa, Jessie Reyez
Dua’s collaboration with renowned DJ and producer Calvin Harris produced the summer hit “One Kiss.” The deep house track showcases Dua’s versatility as a vocalist, seamlessly adapting to a club-centric sound.
The Story Behind the Song
Dua and Calvin created “One Kiss” as an ode to 90s house music. The minimalist production focuses on a hypnotic beat and Dua’s sultry vocals. Jessie Reyez contributed to the lyrics, which capture the thrill of romantic chemistry. Calvin Harris’s expertise in crafting club anthems ensured that the song would dominate festivals and dance floors.
Impact and Accolades
“One Kiss” spent eight consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, making it one of Dua’s longest-running hits. The song won the Brit Award for British Single of the Year in 2019 and remains a staple in her live performances.
6. “IDGAF” (2018): A No-Nonsense Breakup Song
Album: Dua Lipa
Writers: Dua Lipa, MNEK, Larzz Principato, others
“IDGAF” is a bold breakup anthem that showcases Dua’s unapologetic attitude. With its infectious chorus and empowering lyrics, the song became an instant fan favorite.
The Story Behind the Song
Co-written with MNEK, the song was born out of a conversation about toxic relationships and self-worth. The team wanted to create a song that conveyed strength and independence without losing its catchy pop appeal.
Music Video and Reception
The music video, directed by Henry Scholfield, features Dua in a dual role representing vulnerability and strength. The creative concept resonated with fans and earned praise for its artistic execution. The song peaked in the top 10 on charts worldwide and became a defining moment in Dua’s early career.
Conclusion
Dua Lipa’s journey to becoming a global pop icon is marked by an impressive repertoire of hits, each with its own unique story. From the empowering anthem of “New Rules” to the disco revival of “Don’t Start Now” and the cosmic vibes of “Levitating,” her music continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Her ability to blend nostalgia with modernity, coupled with her authentic artistry, ensures that she remains at the forefront of the music industry.
Dua Lipa’s success is not just about chart-topping hits—it’s about the connection her music fosters with listeners. As she continues to evolve as an artist, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in her remarkable career. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual listener, one thing is clear: Dua Lipa’s biggest hits are here to stay, defining the soundtrack of a generation.
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