Lorde-Backed Lume Sets July 17 Launch, First Releases

Lume, a New Zealand-headquartered music startup backed by artist Lorde, has confirmed a July 17 launch for its album-focused app. The platform introduces a direct-to-fan model where purchasers own a release permanently, and artists receive 80% of net revenue.

Platform and Revenue Model

Founded in October 2025, Lume packages each album as what it calls a “boxed set-style” digital release, bundling the core record with demos, live tracks, additional artwork, and behind-the-scenes footage. The app will be available on Android and iOS, initially limited to Australia and New Zealand, with a global rollout planned for later.

Label Partnerships and Chart Eligibility

Lume has signed agreements with independent New Zealand labels Flying Nun, Lil’ Chief Records, and Melted Ice Cream. Albums released through the platform will be eligible for the official New Zealand charts.

Investor Backing

Lume’s investor group includes:

• Lorde
• Hamish McKenzie, co-founder of Substack
• Karl von Randow, co-founder of Letterboxd
• James Hurman, founder of Previously Unavailable
• John Fellet, former CEO of Sky

First Releases

The initial slate of Lume releases will feature new albums from New Zealand artists Erny Belle, Dick Move, Earth Tongue, and Vera Ellen. Reissues of classic records by Die! Die! Die!, Fur Patrol, and others will also be available at launch.

Executive Commentary

“This material represents a holy grail for fans. They’re artefacts which add context to albums, and don’t belong on the social web. Here they’re beautifully housed and presented, and reserved for only those who really believe in and truly support an artist.”

Sacha Judd, Co-Founder

“We’ve received truly incredible archival material. Everything from historically important unreleased live sets, to the voice notes where iconic New Zealand songs first began, to diary pages or exciting cover versions.”

Justin Warren, Co-Founder and Head of Artist Relations