Alabama Shakes Tackle These Crazy Times on New Song ‘American Dream’

A New Chapter for Alabama Shakes

Alabama Shakes have officially returned to the musical landscape with their latest single, “American Dream.” This track marks the second release from the trio since their unexpected reunion in late 2024, signaling a renewed creative energy for the band.

After nearly a decade of inactivity, the band—comprising singer Brittany Howard, bassist Zac Cockrell, and guitarist Heath Fogg—reignited their partnership with a surprise performance in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, in December 2024. That milestone was followed by a successful 2025 tour and the release of “Another Life,” their first new material in over ten years.

Reflecting on the Modern Condition

For Brittany Howard, “American Dream” serves as a necessary commentary on the current state of the world. In a statement accompanying the release, she described the song as a “snapshot of what we’re living through in 2026.”

“It’s a snapshot of what we’re living through in 2026,” singer Brittany Howard said of ‘American Dream’ in a statement. “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. My hope is that one day people will hear this song and say, ‘Yeah, shit was crazy back then, but we made it through.’”

Looking Ahead

The band is reportedly preparing to release their third studio album later this year, which would be their first full-length project since 2015’s critically acclaimed Sound & Color. This upcoming LP marks a significant milestone as the band’s first release under their new partnership with Island Records, signed in 2025.

Fans won’t have to wait long to hear the new music in a live setting. Alabama Shakes are set to embark on a North American amphitheater tour beginning April 16. Additionally, the band is scheduled to support Bruce Springsteen-adjacent energy levels as they join the bill for upcoming concerts alongside Zach Bryan in Eugene, Oregon, and Dover, Delaware.