Gossip makes a triumphant return with Real Power after a decade-long hiatus

After a hiatus lasting more than ten years, the indie-pop sensation Gossip has made a grand re-entry into the music scene with their latest album, Real Power, and the release of their new single Give It Up For Love. This momentous occasion was celebrated on 22^nd March 2024, in London, through Sony Music Entertainment, marking a highly anticipated comeback for the band.

Real Power is a testament to the band’s enduring legacy and their collaboration with the iconic producer Rick Rubin, who previously worked with them on their influential 2009 album Music for Men. The band has once again captured the world’s attention with the early releases from the album, such as the Black Lives Matter protests-inspired Real Power and the tender Crazy Again, earning critical acclaim and securing their place at the top of radio playlists and festival line-ups.

The album was brought to life in Rick Rubin’s Kauai, Hawaii home studio in 2019, serving as a celebration of creativity, the importance of chosen family and the healing process post-trauma. It’s a rich tapestry of genres and emotions, encapsulating the band’s signature sound while exploring new sonic territories.

Speaking about the transformative period leading up to Real Power, frontwoman Beth Ditto reflected on the profound personal changes each band member faced, including turning 40 and going through divorces and losses. “We all experienced a lot of deep loss, and we each turned 40 since we last recorded together,” Ditto shared, highlighting the depth of experience that fuelled the album’s creation.

The band praised Rubin’s influence and his role in their creative rejuvenation. “Rick is pure about his creativity. He’s not interested in fads or a label’s opinions. He’s a cheerleader – he tries to pull the best out of us. He has this ability to make an artist be their best when he’s working with them, because he works with people he believes in,” said guitarist Nathan Howdeshell, appreciating Rubin’s unwavering support and belief in their vision.

Accompanying the album’s release, all videos and artwork have been directed by the acclaimed audio-visual artist Cody Critcheloe, aka SSION, who has successfully captured the raw and visceral essence of Gossip.

Following their headline performance at the BBC 6 Music festival on 8^th March, which featured a surprise collaboration with Alison Moyet, Gossip is set to embark on a full UK/EU tour. The band’s return is not just a revival of their music but a reclamation of their influential position in addressing political, cultural, and social issues through their powerful anthems.

The editorial unit
Image: Cody Critcheloe

Real Power is released on 22^nd March 2024. For further information or to order the album visit Gossip’s website here.

Watch the video for the single Real Power here: