SS26

“SS26” is a song by British singer-songwriter Charli XCX, released on 21 May 2026 through Atlantic Records. It served as the second single from her eighth studio album, Music, Fashion, Film, following “Rock Music”. The track was written by Charli XCX, A. G. Cook and Finn Keane, with Cook and Keane also producing the song.

The title refers to Spring/Summer 2026, a term commonly used in the fashion industry to identify seasonal collections. Fashion and public image form part of the song’s wider subject matter, with Charli examining the pressure to maintain a particular persona and navigate public expectations, particularly online. Although its lyrics and imagery suggest a world approaching collapse, Charli explained that the song was not intended as a direct commentary on the state of the world. Instead, it explores the feeling of having to present oneself as morally correct and respond to criticism in order to achieve a sense of acceptance.

The song followed the release of “Rock Music”, which attracted discussion over its sound and presentation. Charli had previously described that track as funny, earnest, sincere and joyful, explaining that she was not attempting to repel listeners or persuade them to like her. In the lead-up to “SS26”, she shared a preview of its lyrics through her Substack, building anticipation for the release.

Musically, “SS26” combines pop with rock influences and electronic production. It opens with restrained guitar lines and subdued electronic percussion before developing a more distorted sound, accompanied by subtle synthesiser elements. The arrangement incorporates darker musical textures alongside dance-influenced production, reflecting the contrast between the song’s polished presentation and its uneasy subject matter. Its lyrics also address online criticism and the culture of public apologies, presenting the management of personal image as an ongoing performance.

The music video for “SS26” was released alongside the single and directed by Torso. Set against the backdrop of Paris fashion runways, it features Charli wearing a series of designer looks as she moves through fashion-related settings. Fashion figures including Carine Roitfeld, Anthony Vaccarello, Farida Khelfa and Lucien Pagès make cameo appearances. Before the video’s release, Charli also hosted a 30-minute pre-show livestream on YouTube, during which she tried on outfits and discussed pieces by designers she had worn publicly.

“SS26” reached number 43 on the UK Singles Chart. Its release continued the visual and musical direction established by “Rock Music”, bringing together fashion, performance and questions of public identity as part of the Music, Fashion, Film era.

 

*All information accurate at the time of publishing.