Newton Faulkner has unveiled his new single, “What Took You So Long,” an anthemic track that marks a significant creative rebirth for the genre-defying artist. Released today, August 15th, the song is a powerful statement of artistic freedom and the first taste of his upcoming eighth studio album, OCTOPUS, out on September 19th via Cooking Vinyl.
Faulkner describes the single as the cornerstone of the new record, a track that has been two decades in the making. He co-wrote and produced it with his longtime collaborator, Adj, whom he first met twenty years ago. The song’s journey from a rejected idea—dismissed by a record label A&R team a decade ago—to a career-defining moment perfectly encapsulates Faulkner's newfound creative liberation.
“Now I don't listen to anyone when it comes to making music that I love,” Faulkner explained, reflecting on his decision to revisit the shelved idea. “Very glad I dusted it off. In many ways… what took me so long?”
This fearless approach follows a period of significant personal and professional change for the artist, including his symbolic on-stage haircut in late 2024, where he cut off his iconic dreadlocks. That moment of liberation continues to fuel his most authentic work to date.
In a special collaboration with the new single, Faulkner has partnered with the Teenage Cancer Trust. Limited-edition “bootleg” CDs of the new album will be available, featuring exclusive stripped-back tracks, with all proceeds going to the charity.
“What Took You So Long” is a blend of Faulkner's signature acoustic style and his evolving electronic experimentation. As he moves forward with his creative renaissance, the new single proves that this double-platinum artist’s best work is yet to come. The full album OCTOPUS is available for pre-order now, and tickets for his upcoming UK & Ireland tour are on sale.
