Alabama Shakes Premiere New Single 'American Dream'

The reunited band reflects on the challenges of modern life in the new track.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:30pm

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A bold, graphic composition of jagged, abstract shapes in high-contrast black, white, and red, conceptually representing the emotional themes of social strain, economic hardship, and perseverance expressed in the Alabama Shakes' new single.Alabama Shakes' new single 'American Dream' reflects the strain and struggle of modern life, but also a sense of resilience and hope for a better future.Richmond Today

The acclaimed rock band Alabama Shakes have premiered a new single called 'American Dream,' which frontwoman Brittany Howard says is a 'snapshot of what we're living through in 2026.' The song touches on issues like the difficulty of taking time off work to care for a child, and Howard expresses hope that one day people will look back on the current challenges with a sense of having persevered.

Why it matters

Alabama Shakes' return to music after a six-year hiatus is highly anticipated by fans, and the band's new single provides a thoughtful commentary on the social and economic realities many Americans face in the present day.

The details

The new single 'American Dream' is the second new track released by Alabama Shakes since they reunited at the end of 2024. Their most recent album prior to the hiatus was 2015's Sound & Color. The band will launch a U.S. tour in support of their new music on April 16, starting in Richmond, Virginia.

  • Alabama Shakes reunited at the end of 2024 after a six-year hiatus.
  • The band released their first new single 'Another Life' in 2025.
  • The new single 'American Dream' was premiered on April 10, 2026.
  • Alabama Shakes will launch a U.S. tour on April 16, 2026 in Richmond, Virginia.

The players

Alabama Shakes

An acclaimed American rock band known for their soulful, blues-influenced sound.

Brittany Howard

The frontwoman and lead vocalist of Alabama Shakes.

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What they’re saying

“It's a snapshot of what we're living through in 2026. I look around and wonder how we got to a place where there's so much strain and so little support. I mean, it shouldn't be impossible to take off work so you can bring your child to the doctor—that's actually insane.”

— Brittany Howard, Frontwoman, Alabama Shakes

“My hope is that one day people will hear this song and say, 'Yeah, s*** was crazy back then, but we made it through.'”

— Brittany Howard, Frontwoman, Alabama Shakes

What’s next

Alabama Shakes will launch a U.S. tour in support of their new music on April 16, 2026, starting in Richmond, Virginia.

The takeaway

Alabama Shakes' return to music after a hiatus is highly anticipated, and their new single 'American Dream' provides a thoughtful commentary on the social and economic challenges many Americans face in the present day, offering a message of perseverance and hope.