David Byrne is set to release his new album 'Who Is the Sky?' on September 5, 2025, his first since 2018's 'American Utopia,' which transitioned from an LP to a Broadway show and HBO film.

The album's lead single, 'She Explains Things To Me,' is a song inspired by themes of gender, communication, and self-awareness, drawing from Rebecca Solnit's 'Men Explain Things To Me.'

This track is a reflection on how Byrne's female friends often perceive film narratives more quickly than he does, highlighting the contrast with 'mansplaining' and emphasizing the importance of understanding and connection.

'Who Is the Sky?' features more narrative-driven songs, with lyrics that explore personal experiences, societal themes, and universal human emotions such as laughter, sorrow, and connection.

The album was developed during the pandemic, beginning in 2020, as Byrne experimented with grooves and melodies, leading to a collection of songs inspired by his observations of life in New York and Indian symbolism.

Musical arrangements aim to balance accessibility and innovation, with orchestral elements from the Ghost Train Orchestra and collaborations with artists like St. Vincent and Hayley Williams.

The album cover features psychedelic designs by Belgian artist Tom Van Der Borght, reflecting Byrne's adventurous artistic approach.

Byrne describes the album as an exploration of inner mythical creatures and stepping outside personal comfort zones, with themes of hope and human connection in a chaotic world.

To support the album, Byrne will embark on a North American tour starting in September 2025, featuring a 13-piece band, with additional shows in Europe and Australia.

Tickets for the tour are currently on sale, with a total of 50 shows planned across major cities including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and London.

The album will be available in various formats, including CD, vinyl, and a special lemon yellow edition, with pre-orders now open.

The new album continues Byrne's reputation for poetic lyrics and innovative music, blending storytelling with lush orchestration, and aims to expand on the optimistic messages from 'American Utopia.'