Robbie Williams has unveiled plans for an upcoming album that features collaborations with rock legends Glenn Hughes of Deep Purple and Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi. The pop icon revealed the news during an interview with NME, where he also discussed his semi-autobiographical biopic, Better Man, and hinted at a new album release.
The upcoming album, Williams’ first since 2019, will join his extensive discography of 12 solo albums. Before achieving solo success, the pop star was a member of 1990s boy band Take That, a group that sold over 45 million records with hits like ‘Pray’, ‘Relight My Fire’, and ‘Back for Good’. Reflecting on his new project on Virgin Radio, the singer admitted he had written “loads of songs” and noted how pop hits have often emerged unintentionally during the creative process.
Since September 2024, rumours of a collaboration between Williams and Iommi have surfaced after Williams’ drummer, Karol Brazil, mentioned the track ‘Rocket’ on the Percussion Discussion podcast. Brazil said “He’s got an album that we’ve been working on. He’s working with various people but I’ve been fortunate enough to do some songs with him. We’ve done a track called ‘Rocket’ with Tony, which is very random.” Brazil described the song as “a rocker and really cool.”
In Williams’ interview with NME, he confirmed the rumours and shared additional details including that Glenn Hughes also plays on the track. The singer said: “I wanted to create the album I would have made if I left Take That now, knowing what I know. This particular song [Rocket] encapsulates that vision perfectly,” he said.
Williams explained “That one in particular is my favourite song off my new album – that I’ve just announced is happening!” due to its “massive guitars” and “adrenaline-filled” energy.
When asked about a release date, Williams playfully responded: “Let’s see how well the film does first…”
BETTER MAN – the movie – now showing worldwide from today.
Global Release Dates > https://t.co/8Sb5xZRtMQ
UK listings and book tickets > https://t.co/8wT7A9cNRZ
US listings and book tickets > https://t.co/f3VPaI57cf#BetterManMovie pic.twitter.com/md09voqQFY— Robbie Williams (@robbiewilliams) December 26, 2024
Better Man, which premiered in cinemas on December 26, follows the pop icon’s journey from his childhood to stardom, including his time with Take That and his solo career.
A bold creative decision by director Michael Gracey depicts Williams as a CGI monkey, a concept inspired by Gracey’s desire to portray the singer’s “spirit animal” and make it stand out amid the recent surge in biopic productions.
Williams elaborated on this creative choice during an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, emphasising his unique approach to representing his story.
To coincide with his album and biopic, Williams will embark on a major tour across UK, Ireland, and Europe, kicking off in Edinburgh on May 31. Commenting on the tour, Williams promised songs from Better Man and new tracks alongside fan favourites such as ‘Angels’ and ‘Let Me Entertain You’.
“This tour is going to be my boldest yet,” Williams said in a statement. “I can’t wait to see you next year. There will be songs from the movie and some new music…but more on that soon.”
Tickets for the tour are available here.
Tickets for Robbie Williams Live 2025 in the UK, Ireland and Europe are on sale now >> https://t.co/DQNWQxwrAz pic.twitter.com/tfgMB50Vni
— Robbie Williams (@robbiewilliams) November 15, 2024
Robbie Williams’ upcoming album, biopic Better Man, and extensive tour mark an exciting new chapter in the pop icon’s career. With collaborations from rock icons Glenn Hughes and Tony Iommi, the album promises to blend Williams’ signature pop appeal with the intensity of rock particularly in tracks like ‘Rocket’. Fans can look forward to an exciting year of fresh music that celebrates Williams’ past and evolving artistry.
