2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years for new music in recent memory — from massive pop icons returning after long breaks to country stars, rappers, and global acts dropping highly anticipated albums and singles. Below are 10 projects fans across the U.S. are most excited about, complete with release dates and why they matter.
1. Harry Styles – Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally.
đź“… March 6, 2026
After four years since Harry’s House, Harry Styles returns with his fourth solo album, blending disco-inspired pop and classic songwriting. Fans have been buzzing about this comeback, which was teased all over social media and officially announced with the release date in early 2026.
2. Bruno Mars – The Romantic
đź“… February 27, 2026
Bruno Mars is back with his first solo album in nearly a decade, featuring the lead single “I Just Might,” a disco-pop groove released in January that’s already making waves on U.S. charts.
3. Nick Jonas – Sunday Best
đź“… February 6, 2026
Nick Jonas returns to solo work with Sunday Best, his fifth studio album, following his work with the Jonas Brothers and years of touring. The emotional lead single “Gut Punch” dropped on January 1, setting fans up for a big solo moment.
4. Zach Bryan – With Heaven on Top
đź“… January 9, 2026
Already released early in the year, Zach Bryan’s sixth studio album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The country-folk star’s storytelling and raw production continue to define his growing legacy.
5. Luke Combs – The Way I Am
đź“… March 20, 2026
Country music heavyweight Luke Combs drops his sixth studio album, coming off a string of major hits and building anticipation with lead singles throughout late 2025 and early 2026.
**6. BTS – Ariran
đź“… March 20, 2026
K-pop superstars BTS make a huge comeback with Arirang, their first group album in over three years after members completed military service. Though global in impact, BTS remain one of the most watched acts in the U.S. market.
7. A$AP Rocky – Don’t Be Dumb
đź“… January 16, 2026 (Mid-January releases period)
A$AP Rocky’s first full-length album in eight years dropped in January and kicked off one of his most ambitious eras yet, supported by a major global tour and strong streaming numbers.
8. Charli XCX – Wuthering Heights
đź“… February 13, 2026
Charli XCX dives into a high-concept pop project tied to the Wuthering Heights film adaptation, blending her experimental edge with sweeping cinematic vibes — making it one of early 2026’s most talked-about pop albums.
9. Joji – Piss in the Wind
đź“… February 6, 2026
Joji’s ambitious album Piss in the Wind lands in early February, featuring an expansive tracklist and heavyweight collaborators — a major moment for his genre-blending approach to alternative R&B and hip-hop.
10. Madison Beer – Locket
đź“… January 16, 2026
Madison Beer enters 2026 with Locket, a deeply personal pop record following her breakout hits. Fans have eagerly awaited this project as Beer expands her signature storytelling through lush production.
🎧 Honorable Mentions
These releases may not have confirmed U.S. dates yet, but are also on fans’ radars:
- Gorillaz – The Mountain (late February) – another genre-bending project many are eagerly anticipating.
- Charli XCX soundtrack collaborations and indie breakout releases slated throughout spring and summer.
From pop superstars and country legends to global sensations and genre-defying artists, 2026 is packed with music that promises to define the year’s sonic landscape. Whether you’re into chart-toppers or boundary-pushing art pop, there’s something to look forward to almost every month.
Are there any releases you’re most excited about? Drop a comment below!