Charli XCX creating rock music on upcoming album
Charli XCX is gearing up for a new musical direction in her upcoming album.
In a recent feature for British Vogue, the singer revealed that her eighth studio album will mark a departure from the electro-pop dance sound of her previous record, Brat from 2024. Working with frequent collaborators A.G. Cook and Finn Keane, Charli is diving into a more rock-and-roll vibe, with the publication describing the project as a “rock reinvention.” This new direction is evident in the lyrics of a track from the forthcoming album, temporarily known as xcx8.
Charli sings, “I think the dance floor is dead. So now we’re making rock music.”
While this shift in musical genre may surprise fans who were enamored with the infectious beats of Brat, Charli was ready for a change.
“If I’d made another album that felt more dance-oriented, it would have been a struggle, really melancholic,” she expressed. Describing her interest in experimenting with the rock genre, she stated, “but what excites me is pushing the boundaries of my creative perspective on that front.”
She further elaborated, “For me, it’s exhilarating to challenge musical norms. We know there will be individuals who might be unsettled by it, and that’s perfectly acceptable.”
News of Charli’s forthcoming album and its rock-inspired themes emerged after she re-emerged from a social media hiatus. After nearly two months of scarce activity on both her primary and alternate Instagram accounts, she resurfaced with a photo from the studio along with the caption “I like making things.” Additionally, a voice memo shared with fans disclosed her recent bout of inspiration.
The revelation of Charli XCX’s latest project hints at a compelling evolution in her sonic journey. As she tunes into the raw, primal energy of rock music, listeners can anticipate a fresh, invigorating chapter in the artist’s musical legacy. Fans eagerly await the release of her highly-anticipated album, brimming with the promise of a bold, genre-bending experience.