Belinda Carlisle returns to Pop with first English album in 30 Years; 'Once Upon a Time in California' drops Aug 29

Set to be released on August 29, 2025, beloved 1980s rock star Belinda Carlisle is going back to her musical roots with a fresh studio album called ‘Once Upon a Time in California’. The album marks Carlisle’s first English-language pop record in nearly three decades and features ten reimagined classics that shaped her formative years in Southern California.

‘Once Upon a Time in California’ pays tribute to vintage pop culture

The album is a deeply personal collection of cover songs that reflect Carlisle’s musical upbringing in Southern California. It features reimagined versions of classics such as ‘Anyone Who Had a Heart’ by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, ‘If You Could Read My Mind’ by Gordon Lightfoot, ‘Superstar’ by The Carpenters, and ‘Everybody’s Talkin’ by Harry Nilsson. Other tracks include ‘The Air That I Breathe’, ‘Time in a Bottle’, ‘Never My Love’, ‘One’, ‘Get Together’, and ‘Reflections of My Life’.

Produced by Gabe Lopez—who previously collaborated with Carlisle on ‘Wilder Shores,’ the album blends nostalgia with fresh arrangements, offering a sonic tribute to the music that shaped her youth.

Belinda Carlisle’s new album follows EP Kismet and Rock Hall induction

Carlisle’s last major release was the 2023 EP ‘Kismet’, featuring songs written by Diane Warren. Her comeback into pop was greeted with widespread praise and fan excitement. Her legacy as among the most powerful voices of her generation was confirmed in 2021 when she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Go-Go's.

Fans react to Belinda Carlisle’s announcement with nostalgia and excitement

Carlisle announced the album on social media, writing: “I’m so excited to announce my next single ‘Get Together’ from my upcoming album ‘Once Upon a Time in California’ will be out this Thursday, July 17, 2025! Stay tuned ❤️ #NewMusic #belindacarlisle”Fans flooded the comments with messages like: “Ooh baby, do you know what that’s worth?” and“My heart’s been burning for you since the wild, electric days of Heaven on Earth.”

‘Once Upon a Time in California’ available for pre-order in multiple formats

The album will be released via Demon Music and is available for pre-order on CD, digital, and vinyl formats, including limited edition signed copies and sunset-coloured vinyl. Carlisle’s UK tour Heavenly Hits will run from September 5 to 13, giving fans a chance to hear the new songs live.