New Rules cover

New Rules

Dua Lipa · 2017

7 min · 2 tracks · house music

A blend of infectious pop melodies and empowering lyrics set against a backdrop of sleek electronic production.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    New Rules — This track encapsulates Dua Lipa's signature sound with its catchy hook and empowering lyrics about setting personal boundaries, which became an anthem for many listeners.
  • →
    New Rules (acoustic) — The acoustic version strips back the production, allowing Dua's vocal prowess and emotional delivery to shine, showcasing the song's strong lyrical foundation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong melodies and production, with notable cultural resonance and distinctiveness in its sound.

What we noticed

  • The primary track features a steady four-on-the-floor beat with layered synths and a prominent bassline driving the rhythm.
  • The song employs a call-and-response structure in the verses, creating an engaging dynamic between the vocals and production.
  • The acoustic version strips back the electronic elements, highlighting the vocal melody and lyrical content.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 8/10

Defined its genre or moment. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — 'New Rules' marked Dua Lipa's first major commercial success, establishing her presence in pop music.
Career context
Upon the release of 'New Rules' in July 2017, Dua Lipa was transitioning from her debut self-titled album to becoming a prominent force in pop music. This single marked her first major commercial success, establishing her as a leading figure in contemporary pop and paving the way for future hits.
Stylistic neighbors
Charli XCX· Robyn· Tove Lo

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 New Rules 3:32
  • 2 New Rules (acoustic) 3:33

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata