Over the last two months, it seems like I’ve been inundated with information about new releases from Classic Rock/Hits acts. I’ve been holding off on writing about them because, let’s face it, new music from Classic artists isn’t always good and, more importantly, isn’t why fans are tuning in. So short of a major superstar release, it’s generally something to stay away from — for airplay, at least.
But there are so many that it seemed worth calling attention to them collectively. With the advent of streaming, we’ve lost the steady stream of promotional opportunities that used to come with giving away physical media — albums, cassettes, and CDs. But maybe with some of these releases there is the potential to get copies for promotional purposes. And if not, just being aware of all the activity around artists at the format is never a bad thing. So here goes:
The Releases
Tom Petty, “Parade of Loons”
This is a previously unreleased track that is the lead song from a new boxed set called Origins 1971–1978, which is due out next month. The song is receiving airplay at AAA stations and has a moderate streaming story.
Contact: The team at Red Light Management
Bob Seger, Face the Promise (Expanded Edition)
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the album’s release, Bob Seger’s team is releasing an expanded edition with four unreleased songs and a special 2-LP version. Included is his duet with Patty Loveless on “The Answer’s the Question.”
Contact: Meg McLean Corso meg.mcleancorso@umusic.com
Def Leppard, “Heroes” (2026 Mix)
This cover of the Bowie classic is from the boxed set Volume 4, which is the fourth of six volumes being released by the band that will encompass their entire recorded output. The boxed set also includes a cover of The Beatles’ “Revolution.”
Contact:Morgan Gordy morgan.gordy@umusic.com
U2, Carnaval De Luz
The first album of new music from the band in nine years is coming out November 13th. It features a lead single called “Silencio.” Here is the video:
Contact: Robbie Lloyd: robbie.lloyd@umusic.com
Amy Winehouse, Back to Black (20th Anniversary)
In honor of the seminal album’s 20th anniversary, there will be releases in several formats, which will include unreleased demos, rare B-sides, and live performances.
Contact: Meg McLean Corso meg.mcleancorso@umusic.com
Paul McCartney, The Boys of Dungeon Lane (Special Edition)
Already available digitally, with a special 2-LP edition coming in early December, this is an extended version of the album McCartney released last spring. It includes three additional songs and a remix of his duet with Ringo Starr.
Contact Dan Connelly, Interscope Capitol dan.connelly@umusic.com
Elton John, Rock of the Westies (50th Anniversary Edition)
November 20th will bring multiple specially packaged versions of the album John called “the most genuine Rock and Roll record I’ve ever made.” It includes an unreleased piano-and-vocals version of “Street Kids.”
Contact: Meg McLean Corso meg.mcleancorso@umusic.com
KISS, “Hard Luck Woman” and “Mr. Speed” (Eddie Kramer 2026 Mixes)
These songs are being released in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Rock and Roll Over album. The new versions are mixed by the band’s original producer and herald the release of two new boxed sets.
Contact: Jody Best, Best Bet Promotions bestbetpromo@yahoo.com
Neil Young & The Chrome Hearts, “Second Song”
The album and title track came out late last month. The work features seven songs written by Young, five of which are previously unreleased.
Contact Rob Goldklang rob.goldklang@warnerrecords.com
Robert Plant, “The Blackest Crow”
This song is from the EP that was released on Record Store Day last year. This marks the first time it has been available digitally. Plant has continued to actively record for years now, cementing himself as an AAA artist.
Contact: Jesse Barnett jesse@rightarmresource.com
Record Store Day
And speaking of Record Store Day, there is some Classic Rock/Hits goodness on the menu this year. Now, in my experience, these releases are the toughest to get a hold of for radio promotions. Quantities are usually limited and demand is high, as Record Store Day has truly turned into a holiday for vinyl collectors. Regardless, there are some releases worth noting coming out on Friday, November 27th. The juiciest for our formats come from Bruce Springsteen (Live at Tower Theater Philly 1975), Prince (Live at 3121 Las Vegas), and Billy Joel (Bill Joel Tonight).
A Holiday Promotion Opportunity
I’m sure this isn’t all the new Classic Rock/Hits-related music being released before the holiday season this year, but it’s a fairly good start and includes some important artists. Even if some of the releases are a bit offbeat, the opportunity to put together a promotion — maybe for the holidays — could be worth pursuing.
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