It is difficult to articulate just how profound an impact Lana Del Rey has had on the music industry. She has not only shaped the landscape of Indie pop, but in addition to that, she has earned her place as one of the greatest living American songwriters across genres. She truly has had a tremendous impact on the music industry over the years. Throughout this article, I’m about to examine some key aspects of Lana Del Rey’s career, starting with her early days as Lizzy Grant, to her major label debut album, “Born to Die,” which was one of the most influential albums of the decade, which shocked the pop world in the mid-2010s.
Crafting the Persona of Lana Del Rey:
Before Lana Del Rey, there was Elizabeth Grant, a budding singer-songwriter who honed her skills as a guitarist and performed at nightclubs in Brooklyn. After pursuing her passion for music and releasing EPs and albums under the name May Jayla Grant, she caught the attention of music producer David Kane, known for his work with legends like Paul McCartney and Stevie Nicks. This partnership led to the creation of Lana Del Rey’s earlier projects, “Kill Kill” and “Lana Del Rey AKA Lizzy Grant.”
The transformation into the stage name Lana Del Rey was a significant turning point in her career. Inspired by her time in Miami and her admiration for actress Lana Turner and the Brazilian sedan Ford Del Rey, the name symbolized something exotic, beautiful, and glamorous. However, her debut album “AKA” faced setbacks and controversy, with delays and a swift removal from sale shortly after its release.
The True Breakthrough for Lana Del Rey:
For Lana Del Rey, the real breakthrough came when she released her major label debut album, “Born to Die,” in 2012. The album’s lead single, “Video Games,” with its haunting vocals and lo-fi webcam aesthetic, captured the world’s attention and earned her a new label, Stranger Records. The album’s success propelled her to stardom, and Lana became a prominent figure in the music scene. However, Lana Del Rey faced scrutiny and accusations of authenticity and being an industry plant. Critics and media outlets questioned her background and origins, leading to a witch hunt of sorts. Yet, despite the controversies, “Born to Die” continued to gain acclaim and commercial success, selling over 3 million copies in its first year and charting for an incredible 469 weeks on the Billboard 200. She also received a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album, cementing her place in the music industry. Her influence has been credited with inspiring a whole generation of alternative pop artists.
Inspiring a Generation of Artists:
The album’s impact on the music industry was undeniable, influencing many artists who followed in her footsteps. Lana’s unique blend of dark pop with cinematic elements and timeless hooks set her apart from the mainstream pop of that time. Her artistry and aesthetics resonated with a wide audience and left a lasting legacy, inspiring artists like Halsey, Troye Sivan, Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and Camila Cabello, among others.
Looking back, “Born to Die” remains a personal favorite for many fans, characterized by its atmospheric and melodramatic soundscapes. From the bombastic title track to the melancholic “Blue Jeans” and the emotionally charged “Video Games,” the album is a treasure trove of emotive and emotionally resonant songs. The Paradise Edition of the album expands the experience with additional tracks like “Ride” and “Cola.”
Lana’s Influence Knows No Bounds:
Lana Del Rey’s impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. Her journey as an artist and pioneer in such a volatile industry continues to inspire and influence current and future generations of musicians. “Born to Die” is not only a testament to her artistry but also a landmark album that has forever changed the pop landscape. Lana’s impact has been undeniable, and she is now regarded as one of the most influential artists of the decade. Her music has captivated and inspired millions of fans around the world, and her legacy will continue to live on for many years to come.
