Full Breakdown
Rolling Stones Unveil 25th Studio Album “Foreign Tongues” and Signal Tour Ambitions
6/1/2026, 12:04:17 AM
New Album Release and Tour Hints
The Rolling Stones announced the forthcoming release of their 25th studio album, “Foreign Tongues,” scheduled for July 10 on Polydor/Universal Music. While the record arrives with a roster of guest artists, the band has not confirmed any tour dates to support it. Frontman Mick Jagger told BBC Radio 2’s *Tracks of My Years* that he “can’t wait” to tour again, but cautioned that a new tour is unlikely this year and hopes it will happen “as soon as possible.”
Background: Scrapped 2026 Tour and Keith Richards’ Commitment Issue
In late 2025 the Stones cancelled a planned UK and European stadium tour for 2026 after guitarist Keith Richards indicated he could not “commit” to the dates. Richards later hinted that the group might resume touring in 2027, keeping the prospect of live shows alive despite the 2026 cancellation.
Key Contributors to “Foreign Tongues”
- Mick Jagger – lead vocalist, primary spokesperson.
- Keith Richards – guitarist, whose availability influences touring plans.
- Ronnie Wood – guitarist, participated in the interview.
- Paul McCartney – guest bassist and vocalist, appears on the album for the second time after 2024’s *Hackney Diamonds*.
- Robert Smith – frontman of The Cure, contributes a guest appearance.
- Steve Winwood – guest musician.
- Charlie Watts – late drummer, featured posthumously.
- Andrew Watt – producer, also worked on the 2024 Stones album *Hackney Diamonds*.
Timeline of Recent Developments
- Late 2025 – 2026 stadium tour cancelled; Richards cites inability to commit.
- Early June 2026 – Jagger discusses touring desire on BBC Radio 2.
- June 2026 – Full tracklist for *Foreign Tongues* appears on streaming platforms.
- July 10 2026 – Official release date for *Foreign Tongues*.
- 2027 (prospective) – Potential touring window mentioned by Richards.
Album Production Details and Guest Appearances
*Foreign Tongues* was recorded in less than one month at Metropolis Studios in West London. The sessions yielded 14 tracks, including the previously released blues-heavy “Rough And Twisted,” “In The Stars,” and a cover of Amy Winehouse’s “You Know I’m No Good.” Producer Andrew Watt oversaw the rapid recording process, which Jagger described as “very intense” and praised for the studio’s intimate size that “lets you feel the passion in the room.”
Official Statements & Responses
Mick Jagger emphasized his enthusiasm for returning to the road, stating that fans should not expect an immediate announcement and that a tour is unlikely in 2026. The band’s public communications highlighted the album’s collaborative nature, noting contributions from McCartney, Smith, Winwood, and archival material from Charlie Watts. Production remarks from Jagger underscored the efficiency of the Metropolis sessions and the creative energy generated by the guest artists.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’d love to go on tour, I can’t wait,” — Mick Jagger, Rolling Stones frontman
- “I don’t think it’s going to be this year,” — Mick Jagger
- “He was standing there with his back to me and this long gown on and when he turned around, he was covered in lipstick,” — Mick Jagger (describing meeting Robert Smith)
- “I love doing these recording sessions in London at Metropolis,” — Mick Jagger
- “really exciting” — Paul McCartney, guest bassist
What’s Next: Prospects for a 2027 Tour and Promotion
Following the July release, the Stones are expected to promote *Foreign Tongues* through media appearances and possibly limited live performances. Industry observers note that Richards’ 2027 touring window remains the most concrete timeline for a full-scale tour, contingent on his health and logistical planning. The band’s next public updates are likely to address tour logistics as the album’s commercial reception becomes clear.
