Niall Horan shared new details about his next musical chapter while wrapping up another successful season on “The Voice.” Ahead of the season 28 live finale, the singer confirmed that he is working toward new music slated for release in 2026, describing the project as his most mature work to date.
Niall Horan Says New Album Reflects Growth and a Different Studio Approach
Horan spoke with People during the “The Voice” season 28 live shows, where he explained that he approached recording differently than he had on previous albums. Instead of long, drawn-out sessions, he said he went into the studio in shorter periods of time, which helped him return with a fresh perspective.
“I recorded this one a bit differently than my past albums,” Horan told People. “I’d go in, step away, and then come back with fresh ideas.”
That change in process, he said, directly influenced the sound and tone of the music. “This will be an album from a 33-year-old,” Horan added. “It’s got that kind of maturity that hasn’t really been there before.”
The comments section quickly filled with excitement about the news. “I’m so excited for the new music,” one fan wrote, while another added, “We’re gonna get new Niall music soon.”
New Music Comes as Horan Balances ‘The Voice’ Finale and His Health
While fans won’t hear a full album until 2026, Horan has already released new material this season. In October 2025, he teamed up with country star Thomas Rhett for the collaboration “Old Tricks,” marking his first new song since his 2023 album, “The Show.”
“Couldn’t say no to this,” Rhett wrote while announcing the track’s release on Instagram. Horan simply commented with a cowboy emoji.
At the same time, Horan faced health challenges during the final week of season 28 of “The Voice.” During Part 1 of the finale on December 15, host Carson Daly revealed that Horan had been “really under the weather” and initially wasn’t sure he would be able to attend the live shows, according to TV Insider.
Horan later explained that doctors placed him on vocal rest, preventing him from performing with his finalists on Night 2. “The doctors put me on vocal rest,” he said, adding that Reba McEntire would step in to sing with DEK of Hearts and Aiden Ross.
McEntire praised Horan for prioritizing his health, telling him, “I’m very proud of you, Niall, for making sure that you take care of yourself because we want you around with your beautiful voice for many years to come.”
