As he prepares to embark upon the biggest stadium tour of the year as special guest to Oasis, Richard Ashcroft today announces the October 3rd release date of his brand new album ‘Lovin’ You’. His seventh solo set, ‘Lovin’ You’ is his first all-new album since 2018’s ‘Natural Rebel’ and follows 2021’s ‘Acoustic Hymns, Vol. 1’. The ‘Lovin’ You’ album opens with its first single ‘Lover’, which is currently receiving nationwide play. The song interpolates Joan Armatrading’s classic ‘Love And Affection’, which earned the praise of the legendary songwriter herself: “I love how he’s used my song and I love his song.” That single sets the standard for a record which finds Richard at the peak of his powers. It’s a set which spans the many facets of his sound, from his classic string-soaked acoustic balladry and anthemic indie-rock, through to flashes of Americana, soul and glitchy electro beats. Its themes are intimate and personal, dominated by love, romance and affecting messages of support for those struggling with life’s challenges.
The songs on ‘Lovin’ You’ were written by Richard, who co-produced the album with Chris Potter and Emre Ramazanoglu. There is also the track ‘I’m A Rebel’, co-written and produced with Mirwais of Madonna fame. It will be released on standard black vinyl, CD and digital formats. There is also a range of retailer exclusive vinyl variants: his official store offers a neon orange vinyl, Amazon UK have a regular orange version, and select independent stores will stock a blue version.
A two-time Ivor Novello Award winner (Songwriter of the Year and Outstanding Contribution To British Music), Richard Ashcroft has become one of the most accomplished and influential songwriters around over the course of a career which spans three decades. His first chapter with The Verve reached a remarkable peak with ‘Urban Hymns’, a hit-laden set (‘Bitter Sweet Symphony’, ‘The Drugs Don’t Work’, ‘Lucky Man’, ‘Sonnet’) which is one of the biggest selling albums in UK history with 11 x Platinum certifications. The band achieved a second #1 album with ‘Forth’ and won three BRIT Awards.
His solo career continued that acclaim with his debut ‘Alone With Everybody’ shooting to #1 and all five subsequent studio albums landing between #2 and #5. Between The Verve and his solo work he has achieved three UK #1 albums and another five Top 10 records, plus a #1 single and five Top 10 hits.
Richard Ashcroft and Oasis share a mutual admiration which dates back to touring together before Oasis first broke through. Richard will perform as special guest on all of their UK shows.