Following years of pursuing music and signing with Island Records in 2019, Lola Young released her sophomore album, This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway, on June 21, 2024. The South East London artist shot into the spotlight with her breakout hit "Messy" in 2025.

Commercial success

• The single “Messy” became Lola Young’s first UK Number 1 single on January 24, 2025.

• “Messy” also topped Billboard’s Alternative Airplay chart and the Rock & Alternative Airplay tally.

• Her album, This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway, reached No. 11 on the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart.

Cultural impact

• Her single “Messy” gained significant traction, growing from TikTok virality to radio play and festival stages, and was featured in posts by influencers like Kylie Jenner.

• Young performed “Messy” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and made her Coachella debut in 2025.

• She was also featured on Tyler, the Creator’s track “Like Him” from his album "CHROMAKOPIA"

Critical response

• The Guardian described Lola Young’s recent work as “a winningly messy mix of zingers and vulnerability,” highlighting her “scuffed vividness.” Read full review

• NME praised her “knack for storytelling that feels real and even unflattering,” noting her songs are “fierce, funny and assertive.” Read full review

• The New York Times suggested Young “could be Gen Z’s Amy Winehouse, without the tragic ending, or its Adele, with plenty more edge,” comparing her “world-building rawness” to Billie Eilish and Chappell Roan. Read full profile