Charli XCX’s “Party 4 U”: A Five-Year Wait for the Ultimate Celebration

The song that was never supposed to be a hit.

In 2020, Charli XCX released “Party 4 U,” a track that was initially written during the sessions for her 2017 mixtape Pop 2. Despite its origins, the song didn’t make the cut for the mixtape and was shelved. However, it found its way into online videos and live shows, becoming a fan favorite. Fast forward to 2025, and “Party 4 U” has gone viral on TikTok, leading to its release as a single five years after its initial debut.

The unexpected resurgence.

The resurgence of “Party 4 U” can be attributed to a TikTok trend where users lip-sync to the song, replicating a moment from RuPaul’s Drag Race where a contestant delivered a lip-synced performance of Paula Abdul’s “Cold Hearted.” This trend has propelled the song to new heights, with Charli herself expressing her surprise and gratitude on social media.

The significance of the five-year anniversary.

The five-year anniversary of “Party 4 U” is not just a milestone for the song but also for Charli XCX’s career. In a handwritten letter posted to Instagram, Charli reflected on the creation of her 2020 album How I’m Feeling Now, describing it as a rediscovery of herself and her connection with the world during a time of isolation. The anniversary serves as a reminder of the journey and growth she has experienced since then.

The anticipation of the music video.

To commemorate the anniversary, Charli XCX has announced the release of a music video for “Party 4 U.” In a teaser shared on social media, she included a close-up of her eyes paired with a snippet of the song, hinting at the visual direction of the upcoming video. Fans are eagerly awaiting the video’s release, speculating about its concept and how it will complement the song’s themes.

The enduring connection with fans.

The resurgence of “Party 4 U” highlights the enduring connection between Charli XCX and her fans. Despite the song’s initial limited commercial success, its viral resurgence demonstrates the power of fan engagement and the lasting impact of music that resonates on a personal level. Charli’s acknowledgment of her fans’ support underscores the importance of this relationship in her artistic journey.