U2's 16th Album 'Carnaval de Luz' Arrives Nov. 13, Featuring Dolly Parton's Final Duet
U2 has announced their first studio album in nearly a decade, 'Carnaval de Luz,' set for release on November 13. The 12-track record marks the band's 50th anniversary and features the final recorded vocal performance of Dolly Parton, who died in August. The closing track, 'Torn,' is a duet between Parton and Bono, recorded in June before her passing. The album reunites U2 with producers Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois and includes new collaborations with Martin Garrix and Ryan Tedder.
Key points
- U2 will release 'Carnaval de Luz' on November 13, their first full-length studio album since 2014's 'Songs of Innocence.'
- The album concludes with 'Torn,' the final recorded vocal performance by Dolly Parton, who died on August 25 at age 80.
- Parton recorded her duet with Bono in June; she approved the final mix before her death, according to producer Jacknife Lee.
- The 12-track record explores themes of spirituality and endurance, featuring collaborations with Brian Eno, Daniel Lanois, Martin Garrix, and Ryan Tedder.
- The announcement coincides with the 50th anniversary of U2's formation, following the release of two EPs, 'Days of Ash' and 'Easter Lily,' earlier this year.
Background
U2 had been active in 2026 with the release of two digital-only EPs, 'Days of Ash' in February and 'Easter Lily' later in the year. The band's previous studio album, 'Songs of Innocence,' was released in 2014. Dolly Parton's death in August 2026 prompted widespread tributes, including a celebration of life in New Orleans and reflections from artists like Miley Cyrus.
How outlets are covering it
The Guardian emphasizes the album's political and artistic defiance, noting Bono's promise of 'loud guitars' and 'ecstatic rhythms' as a response to global darkness. Rolling Stone focuses on the emotional weight of Parton's final recording, highlighting Bono's statement that Parton 'got out of her bed' to sing the track despite her illness. Variety provides a broader industry context, noting the album's release date as November 12 in some contexts (though the primary source specifies November 13) and detailing the specific tracklist and production credits, including the use of flat-wound strings by The Edge.
Why it matters
This release marks a significant return for one of the most influential rock bands of the late 20th century after a nearly decade-long hiatus from studio albums. The inclusion of Dolly Parton's final recording adds a poignant cultural layer, bridging rock and country music in a posthumous collaboration that honors her legacy.
What to watch
Fans can expect the full album release on November 13. The single 'Silencio' has already been released, and 'Street of Dreams' was released in July. The band may announce tour dates or additional promotional events to celebrate their 50th anniversary.
- U2 announce new album Carnaval de Luz, featuring final recording by Dolly Parton The Guardian
- Inside Dolly Parton’s Final Recording — a Duet with Bono on the New U2 Album Rolling Stone
- U2’s First Album in Nine Years, ‘Carnaval De Luz,’ Will Feature a Dolly Parton Duet With Bono, Said to Be Her Last Recorded Vocal Variety
- U2 to Mark 50 Years As a Band With New Album ‘Carnaval De Luz,’ Featuring Dolly Parton’s Final Vocals Yahoo
- 'CARNAVAL DE LUZ' - New Album In November. u2.com
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