I just realized that Lorde’s “Royals” shares nearly all important features of gospel music.

Which makes sense, as gospel is very powerful music.

Dominant vocals, repetition, syncopation, harmony (in this case, Lorde harmonizing with herself), call and response – “Well never be Royals (Royals!)” – and strong rhythm. Yep, it’s all there.

I’d love to see a good Southern gospel group cover that song. I bet they’d kill it.