Pop sensation Rita Ora is set to captivate audiences once again, returning to her musical roots with a new single and an electrifying performance at WorldPride 2025 in Washington, DC. The event, scheduled for June 6, will see Ora debut her new track ‘Heat’, co-written with acclaimed songwriter Leland, marking a significant moment in her ongoing celebration of the LGBTQ+ community.
A Personal and Creative Revival
In an exclusive interview with Gayety, Ora shared insights into her creative journey, revealing that her new music reflects a return to her authentic self. “I’ve just gone back to my roots,” she explained. “I just went back to being sexy and being fun and not giving a shit.” This shift comes after a period of introspection and personal growth, including her marriage to filmmaker Taika Waititi. Ora describes her upcoming album as a “personal letter” to her fans, emphasizing themes of freedom, joy, and self-expression. “I just have so less [sic] f*** to give that it feels like the music just feels free,” she added.
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WorldPride 2025: A Milestone Moment
Performing at WorldPride represents a significant milestone in Ora’s career. She recalled her first Pride experience in 2012 in London, describing it as an “incredible eye-opener” that solidified her sense of belonging within the LGBTQ+ community. “It was unbelievable,” Ora said. “It was an incredible eye-opener for me in just where I knew I always belonged.” Since then, she has consistently supported LGBTQ+ causes, participating in numerous Pride events and fundraisers.
Ora’s upcoming performance at WorldPride is particularly special, as she will debut her new single alongside Leland, who also contributed to the track’s writing. “When Leland called me and asked me about doing this and he helped write my single that I’m performing on June the 6th, it was like, ‘Are you actually kidding me? Thank you for asking me. How could I not do this?'” Ora exclaimed. This collaboration underscores her commitment to creating music that resonates with her fans and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.
The LGBTQ+ Community: A Source of Inspiration and Support
Throughout her career, Ora has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has expressed deep gratitude for the community’s unwavering support. “The LGBTQ+ community has had my back since the beginning,” she stated. “Everything I do is with them in mind.” She credits the community with providing a sense of safety and acceptance, particularly during challenging times. “There’s been moments of insecurity where I feel like, ‘Oh, that’s okay because I’m not on my own,'” Ora reflected.
Her connection with the LGBTQ+ community is not just professional but deeply personal. “I’m surrounded by the gays, like my best friends, even my publicist that’s right here, right now, everyone I work with,” she shared. “It is like everywhere I live and breathe.” This close-knit support system has been instrumental in shaping her identity and artistic expression.
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As Ora prepares for her WorldPride performance, she is also gearing up for her upcomign performance marking a return to live performances that she describes as her “favorite part” of being an artist. “Getting to perform live is my favorite part,” she said. “The tour is the only reason I put music out.” This tour will feature her new music, including the upcoming single, and is expected to further solidify her status as a pop icon committed to celebrating love, freedom, and inclusivity.
Be sure to buy tickets at www.worldpride25.com and don’t miss Rita Ora peforming her new single “Heat.”
