As the music industry gears up for an exciting year, fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating a slew of new albums from some of the most iconic names in the business. From legendary rock bands to solo artists making a grand return, 2026 promises to be a landmark year for music enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most anticipated albums set to release next year.
Paul McCartney’s Sentimental Return
Paul McCartney is poised to release his first album since 2020’s McCartney III. While the release date remains unconfirmed, the legendary Beatle has been working with producer Andrew Watt. Rumors suggest that strings have been recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, hinting at a potentially orchestral touch. In a poignant moment, original Wings drummer Denny Seiwell shared an emotional studio visit on the Hands Across The Water Beatles podcast, recalling a song that moved everyone to tears. “All of a sudden,” Seiwell said, “the three of us are having a big group hug.” Watt added in a February interview with Howard Stern, “Paul plays every instrument himself… and then he starts harmonising. Those are the Beatles harmonies and Wings harmonies, and those are the greatest harmonies in popular music, probably.”
The Rolling Stones: New Material on the Horizon
The Rolling Stones are also set to make waves with a follow-up to 2023’s Hackney Diamonds. Producer Andrew Watt has confirmed his involvement in the project, which combines existing material with new songs. Keith Richards’ son, Marlon Richards, revealed that the band has been working in a Chiswick studio. Reports indicate that the Stones, featuring drummer Steve Jordan, have completed 13 tracks. Ronnie Wood told The Sun, “you will be getting a new album next year. It is done,” and expressed hopes for a 2026 tour.
Blondie’s Genre-Spanning Effort
Blondie’s upcoming album, High Noon, is set for a spring release. Produced by John Congleton, the album will feature the late Clem Burke’s drumming. Debbie Harry explained to MOJO, “With Blondie albums we’ve always tried to present a lot of different tempos and feelings and represent a couple genres in rock and pop. That’s always been our interest, and somehow we’ve always made it sound like Blondie – either by accident or on purpose!” The album includes contributions from Johnny Marr and Glenn Matlock, showcasing Blondie’s eclectic influences.
Faces and Stevie Nicks: Long-Awaited Projects
Fans have been eagerly awaiting a new album from Faces, featuring Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, and Kenney Jones. Last October, Wood told BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs about their ongoing work on songs from their early days. Meanwhile, Stevie Nicks is working on her first solo album since 2011, tentatively titled the Ghost Record. Speaking at the Pollstar Awards, Nicks described the album as autobiographical, with songs about personal memories and a tribute to Prince.
Innovative Releases from Mick Fleetwood and Lana Del Rey
Mick Fleetwood is recording a solo album, marking a semi-reunion with Fleetwood Mac members. Swedish producer Carl Falk shared insights into the project, highlighting Lindsey Buckingham’s involvement. Lana Del Rey’s tenth album, Stove, will explore country music, a genre she has long admired. Del Rey noted in an interview with W magazine, “[The songs] were more autobiographical than I thought, and that took more time… the majority of the album will have a country flair.”
Bruce Springsteen and Gorillaz: Diverse Musical Directions
Bruce Springsteen has a solo album ready for release in 2026, alongside a follow-up to his 2022 soul covers set. Springsteen told Rolling Stone, “I have a record finished. It’s a solo record… I would imagine it will come out in ’26 sometime.” Gorillaz’s ninth LP, The Mountain, features an impressive lineup of collaborators. Damon Albarn told Radio X about the album’s themes of mortality and reflection, inspired by recent personal losses.
U2 and Love: Political and Posthumous Releases
U2 is back in the studio, working on their first all-new album since 2017. At a recent event, Bono previewed a new song inspired by the killing of Palestinian activist Awdah Hathaleen. The Edge remarked, “Our favourite protest songs always had a sense of vision, something to aim for.” Meanwhile, Love’s posthumous album Just To Remind You offers fans a glimpse into Arthur Lee’s creative mind, with material curated by his collaborators.
Peter Gabriel and Courtney Love: Conceptual and Collaborative Albums
Peter Gabriel’s new album, o/i, will be released gradually throughout 2026, with “dark-side” and “bright-side” mixes. Gabriel explained, “We are sliding into a period of transition like no other, most likely triggered in three waves; AI, quantum computing and the brain computer interface.” Courtney Love is working on her second solo album since 2009, collaborating with Echo & The Bunnymen guitarist Will Sergeant and featuring contributions from Michael Stipe and Melissa Auf der Maur.
Massive Attack and Fred Vail/Brian Wilson: Rediscovering Roots
Massive Attack is set to release new music after a long hiatus, with tracks available through a new label. In an interview with NME, the band’s 3D mentioned, “We do have some new music which we’ve been sitting on for four years… Hopefully we’re going to be able to release it.” Fred Vail and Brian Wilson continue to work on the long-awaited Cows In The Pasture, featuring songs by Hank Williams and James Taylor.
The Cult, Tori Amos, and The Damned: Diverse Offerings
The Cult is returning to the studio after their recent tour, with Billy Duffy emphasizing the need for change and creativity. Tori Amos’s upcoming album, In Times Of Dragons, addresses contemporary political issues, with Amos describing it as a metaphorical story about democracy. The Damned’s Not Like Everybody Else pays tribute to late guitarist Brian James, featuring covers of classic rock songs.
The Prodigy, Bill Callahan, and Buzzcocks: New Directions
The Prodigy promises new music in 2026, continuing to honor late member Keith Flint during live performances. Bill Callahan’s My Days Of 58 offers a “crystal clear” sound inspired by bluegrass music. Buzzcocks’ Attitude Adjustment combines punk rock with a Motown vibe, as Steve Diggle aims to create a new future for the band.
Madonna, Billy F Gibbons, and The Womack Sisters: Fresh Collaborations
Madonna is working with producer Stuart Price on a new album, returning to her roots with a dancefloor focus. ZZ Top’s Billy F Gibbons is crafting a solo record, with ZZ Top also working on new material. The Womack Sisters, signed to Daptone, are set to release their debut album, produced by Gabriel ‘Bosco Mann’ Roth.
Bob Dylan and Ringo Starr: Legendary Artists in the Studio
Bob Dylan recently recorded at White Lake Studios, though details remain under wraps. Studio boss David Bourgeois described the visit as “truly special.” Ringo Starr is working on a new album with producer T Bone Burnett, following last year’s Look Up.
As 2026 approaches, the music world is abuzz with anticipation for these upcoming releases. Each artist brings their unique sound and vision, promising a year filled with memorable music and unforgettable moments.
