Considering she’s one of the most influential alt-rockers of all time, fans tend to get pretty excited whenever Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth makes any new music…so it’s no surprise that longtime listeners were thrilled to hear about her upcoming album.
As Pitchfork reported, Gordon, 72, is releasing her third solo album — titled Play Me — via Matador on March 13, 2026. (Her last solo album, The Collective, came out in 2024.) The new album represents a sort of “renewed creativity,” according to the outlet, which Gordon said was partially a result of reuniting with producer Justin Raisen.
“We wanted the songs to be short,” said Gordon. “We wanted to do it really fast. It’s more focused, and maybe more confident. I always kind of work off of rhythms, and I knew I wanted it to be even more beat-oriented than the last one. Justin really gets my voice and my lyrics and he understands how I work — that came forth even more on this record.”
On Play Me, fans will get to hear Gordon use her voice in a different way than they’re used to, she explained.
“I started singing in a way I hadn’t sung in a long time,” said Gordon. “This other voice came out.”
Directed by Rodarte founders Kate and Laura Mulleavy, the video for lead single “Not Today” features Gordon wearing a custom-made tulle dress designed for her years earlier. Another song on the album, “Busy Bee,” features a guest appearance by Dave Grohl.
Commenters on the YouTube clip of “Not Today” were quick to gush about the new single.
“I need more Kim Gordon in my life. Thank you for this,” one person wrote, with a second adding, “It took me about 10 seconds to totally love this! Well done!”
“Early 70s Kim is out here dancing and writhing with the energy of someone half her age. Right on!” declared someone else.
Kim Gordon and Dave Grohl have collaborated before
On Jan. 30, 2025, Gordon joined Grohl and his former Nirvana bandmates Krist Novoselic and Pat Smear for a benefit concert which also featured a series of other female guest singers including Joan Jett, Violet Grohl, Joan Jett and St Vincent, per Far Out Magazine.
The four-song set of Nirvana classics kicked off with St Vincent on “Breed,” with Gordon singing next on “School.” Jett took over on vocals for “Territorial Pissings,” while the younger Grohl sang “All Apologies” (with Gordon on bass).
Related: Iconic Alt-Rockers Tease Big News After Devastating Breakup
This story was originally published by Parade on Jan 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.