Gorillaz Release New Single "The Manifesto" Featuring Trueno and Proof

Gorillaz have unveiled their latest single, "The Manifesto," which features Argentine rapper Trueno and a posthumous verse from the late D12 member Proof. This track is the second single from their upcoming ninth studio album, *The Mountain*, set to be released on March 20, 2026. Following the earlier single "The Happy Dictator," "The Manifesto" spans seven minutes and explores themes surrounding the cycle of life and the afterlife.

Gorillaz shares new ’The Mountain’ track, ‘The Manifesto’ – 105.7 The Point

The track showcases a diverse musical palette, incorporating contributions from various artists. Alongside Trueno and Proof, the song features sarod players Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash, bansuri player Ajay Prasanna, and the Mountain Choir led by Vijayaa Shanker. The eclectic mix of instrumentation and genres reflects Gorillaz's long-standing tradition of cross-genre collaboration, creating a sound that is both expansive and introspective.

Gorillaz Team Up with Trueno and the Late D12 Emcee Proof on Latest Cut From “The Mountain”

Lyrically, "The Manifesto" delves into existential themes. Trueno's verses express uncertainty about the future, while Proof's lines, recorded shortly before his death in 2006, add a poignant layer to the track. His freestyle includes the lines, "You aren’t ready for death/ Until I showed up, hold breath/ Until you blow the on one set," which resonate with the song's overarching themes of life and mortality.

Gorillaz Share New Single "The Manifesto": Stream

Russel Hobbs, the fictional drummer of Gorillaz, described the song as "a musical meditation infused with light," emphasizing its spiritual journey. He stated, “As space dust we are here forever and that’s a mighty long time. This is a musical meditation infused with light. A journey of the soul, with beats…”

Pitchfork

In support of *The Mountain*, Gorillaz will embark on a UK and Ireland tour starting March 21, 2026, with a series of performances across major cities including Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow. The tour will culminate in a headline show at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on June 20, 2026, featuring support from Trueno and Sparks.

Gorillaz Drop New Single “The Manifesto”

While the single has been generally well-received, some critics have noted the challenge of integrating such diverse musical elements cohesively. The ambitious nature of the track may not appeal to all listeners, particularly those who prefer more traditional song structures.

Gorillaz Team Up with Trueno and the Late D12 Emcee Proof on Latest Cut From “The Mountain”

There are no significant conflicting reports regarding the release of "The Manifesto" or its content. However, details about the specific recording locations and processes remain sparse, leaving some gaps in understanding the album's production.

Gorillaz shares new ’The Mountain’ track, ‘The Manifesto’ – 105.7 The Point

• “As space dust we are here forever and that’s a mighty long time. This is a musical meditation infused with light. A journey of the soul, with beats…” — Russel Hobbs, Gorillaz Drummer

Pitchfork

• “You aren’t ready for death/ Until I showed up, hold breath/ Until you blow the on one set.” — Proof, D12 Member

Gorillaz Share New Single "The Manifesto": Stream

With *The Mountain* on the horizon, Gorillaz continue to push the boundaries of music and collaboration, reaffirming their place in the contemporary music landscape.

Gorillaz Drop New Single “The Manifesto”