Robbie Williams Enters the ‘Britpop’ Era with New Album and Tony Iommi Collaboration
Robbie Williams, the iconic British pop star, is making a bold statement with his upcoming album, 'Britpop'. A surprising title, considering Williams was never truly considered part of the original Britpop scene in the 90s, this new project promises a raw, guitar-driven sound, a departure from his usual pop sensibilities.
The lead single, 'Rocket', is already making waves, described as a charged-up pop-punk track with Ramones/Undertones vibes. But the real surprise? It features a blistering guitar solo from none other than Tony Iommi, the legendary guitarist of Black Sabbath. This unlikely collaboration is generating buzz and hinting at the sonic direction of the album.
Williams himself says that 'Britpop' is "the album that I wanted to write and release after I left Take That in 1995," at the peak of the Britpop era. He added on Instagram, "I’ve worked with some of my heroes on this album; it’s raw, there are more guitars and it’s an album that’s even more upbeat and anthemic than usual."
The visual aesthetic is also embracing the era. The 'Britpop' cover artwork is a clear nod to the 90s, featuring a painting of Williams in his iconic red tracksuit outfit from the 1995 Glastonbury Festival. Furthermore, in the 'Rocket' music video, Robbie sports a punk-inspired look, complete with red tartan trousers and a graffiti-covered leather biker jacket. Scenes were filmed in Birmingham with Iommi adding an authentic touch.
Robbie's "Britpop" stadium tour, kicking off on May 31st in Edinburgh, will give fans their first chance to hear new tracks like 'Rocket' live. The newly retitled tour, previously known as “Robbie Williams Live 2025”, will be travelling to cities across the UK, Ireland, and Europe through the summer.
Even before the official announcement, Williams hinted at the album's heavier sound in an interview with NME, describing 'Rocket' as filled with "massive guitars...adrenaline-filled and balls to the wall." This collaboration with a metal icon like Iommi certainly backs up that claim
It is noteable that Iommi, alongside other original member of Black Sabbath: Ozzy Osbourne, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward, will play a charity show this summer at Villa Park in Birmingham after a long split with each other. Does the collaboration with Robbie Williams and the reunion to Black Sabbath hinted to something else?
Will 'Britpop' be a triumphant return to form for Robbie Williams, or will it be a bold experiment that pushes the boundaries of pop music? Only time will tell. What are your thoughts on this unexpected collaboration? Share your predictions and hopes for the album in the comments below!
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