Laufey is shattering expectations with two major career milestones: a headline collaboration in Fortnite's Festival mode and a debut performance at Coachella. The Icelandic-Chinese artist, once pigeonholed as a "jazz girl," is now embracing her multifaceted identity.
"Running around with a gun [in Fortnite] is absolutely the best way to show that there are so many more layers to me," Laufey told NME.
Her involvement in the popular battle royale game includes new tracks added to the rhythm-based Festival mode, unlockable emotes, cosmetics inspired by her 'A Matter Of Time' arena tour, and even a playable character skin. This follows other musical giants like Billie Eilish and The Weeknd in the game's musical lineup.
Simultaneously, Laufey recently graced the Coachella stage for the first time, bringing her classically-infused sound to the massive festival.
"Playing Coachella is such a great honour and directly aligns with my goal of bringing my music, which is steeped in older styles, to something that feels very current," she explained. "It can be scary bringing a string quartet onto a stage that’s just had a K-pop act performing on but hopefully [this] will turn more people onto classical or Jazz music."
Reflecting on both ventures, Laufey acknowledged initial doubts but emphasized staying true to her artistic vision.
"With both Fortnite and Coachella, I’ve wondered if people are going to like [me being there]," she continued. "But the only thing I can do is continue with what feels right."
Her current era, defined by the album 'A Matter Of Time' and its accompanying arena tour, is a deliberate push against preconceived notions, proving her artistry extends far beyond any single genre.