As 2026 approaches, music fans have much to anticipate with several high-profile album releases scheduled for the first quarter. Artists including Zach Bryan, Lana Del Rey, and Nick Jonas are among those unveiling new projects, spanning genres from country to pop. These announcements highlight a diverse slate of comebacks and fresh sounds.
Key Early 2026 Releases
The new year kicks off with Zach Bryan's 'With Heaven On Top' on January 9 via an unspecified label. The alt-country artist, known for his rapid output since 2017, follows up recent collaborations with Bruce Springsteen and others. This EP arrives amid some controversy from a snippet called 'Bad News,' which critiqued ICE tactics, though it's unclear if it will feature on the release.
Lana Del Rey's 'Stove' is slated for January 2026, marking her 10th studio album. Initially announced as 'Lasso' and later 'The Right Person Will Stay,' the project represents a shift toward traditional country influences, inspired by her earlier tracks like 'Ride' and 'Video Games.' Collaborating again with Jack Antonoff, Del Rey described it to Pitchfork as having an Americana feel, while telling Vogue it won't stray too far from her signature style, blending classic country with Southern Gothic elements.
On January 16, ENHYPEN releases 'THE SIN : VANISH' through BELIFT LAB, and Madison Beer drops 'Locket' on Epic Records. Megadeth's self-titled final album arrives January 23 via Tradecraft/BLKIIBLK, accompanied by a farewell tour and a bonus track featuring Metallica, as announced by Dave Mustaine.
February brings Nick Jonas' 'Sunday Best' on Republic Records and Puscifer's 'Normal Isn’t' on February 6. Mumford & Sons' 'Prizefighter' follows on February 13 via Island Records. Hilary Duff makes her musical return with 'Luck…or Something' on February 20 through Atlantic Records, her first album in a decade, tied to a docuseries. Other February highlights include Megan Moroney's 'Cloud 9' and Daphni's 'Butterfly,' the latter featuring Dan Snaith's voice for the first time.
In March, Nicki Minaj's untitled album is set for March 27. Additional projects without firm dates include Mel C's 'Sweat' in May and teased efforts from The All-American Rejects and 4 Non Blondes.
These releases, drawn from industry calendars, reflect ongoing delays and surprises in music scheduling, with more announcements expected.
