Richard Ashcroft, the acclaimed British singer-songwriter and former frontman of The Verve, is once again making waves in the music world. On October 10, 2025, Ashcroft will release his highly anticipated new album, Lovin’ You, distributed by Virgin Music Group. The title track, released as a single ahead of the album, has already sparked excitement among fans and critics alike, not least because it features a historic musical nod: the guitar riff from Mason Williams’ Grammy-winning 1968 classic, Classical Gas.
For much of the summer of 2025, Ashcroft thrilled audiences across the UK as a special guest on the Oasis stadium reunion tour. Performing timeless classics like “Bitter Sweet Symphony” and “The Drugs Don’t Work,” Ashcroft’s presence ignited a renewed passion for his music—both from his days leading The Verve and throughout his prolific solo career. According to iMusicFun, the tour served as a perfect preview for Ashcroft’s upcoming album, stoking anticipation for his return to the studio spotlight.
The energy surrounding Ashcroft’s recent performances has translated into remarkable demand for his own shows. His forthcoming headliner tour in the UK, set for March and April 2026, is shaping up to be the largest of his career. So intense is the demand for tickets that multiple new dates have been added to the original schedule. Several venues, such as Manchester’s Co-op Live and Cardiff’s Utilita Arena, have already sold out, underscoring Ashcroft’s enduring appeal.
The single “Lovin’ You” stands out not only as a showcase for Ashcroft’s evolving sound but also as a testament to his willingness to experiment. The track, produced by Ashcroft himself alongside Emre Ramazanoglu, weaves in hip-hop-inspired beats and creative use of loops—elements that reveal a fresh, unconventional side to his artistry. Yet, it’s the integration of the iconic “Classical Gas” riff that truly sets the song apart. Mason Williams, the original composer, is credited as co-writer on the track and has expressed his enthusiasm after hearing Ashcroft’s new interpretation. As reported by iMusicFun, Williams was “enthusiastic” about the modern revival of his signature riff, a sentiment echoed by many longtime fans of both artists.
Louder, a leading voice in music journalism, recently praised Ashcroft’s stage presence and songwriting prowess, declaring him “every inch the rock star with his cut cheekbones, swaggering walk, soaring voice and armed with songs that could go toe to toe with almost anyone.” Such acclaim is hardly new for Ashcroft, whose accolades include two Ivor Novello Awards and three BRIT Awards, as well as the monumental success of The Verve’s Urban Hymns—an album that went 11-times platinum and topped the UK charts.
Reflecting on his artistic journey, Ashcroft’s ability to reinvent himself without losing touch with his musical roots is striking. The new single “Lovin’ You” encapsulates this evolution, marrying the nostalgia of a classic riff with modern production sensibilities. According to statements from Ashcroft’s team, the track “represents the ability of Richard to constantly evolve his sound without ever losing sight of his artistic identity.” The collaboration with Emre Ramazanoglu in the studio has helped Ashcroft push boundaries, introducing a new generation of listeners to his distinctive blend of rock, soul, and now, hip-hop influences.
The Oasis stadium tour, which reignited interest in Ashcroft’s catalog, is set to conclude with two highly anticipated shows at London’s Wembley Stadium on September 27 and 28, 2025. These performances will cap off a summer that has seen Ashcroft’s star shine brighter than ever, both as a solo artist and as a cherished figure in British rock history. According to iMusicFun and additional reports, Ashcroft’s participation in the Oasis reunion tour has not only brought his music to new audiences but also reminded longtime fans of his enduring talent and charisma.
Looking ahead, Ashcroft’s headliner UK tour promises to be a landmark event. The schedule includes the following dates: November 8, 2025, at Manchester’s Co-op Live (already sold out); March 24, 2026, at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena (sold out); March 26 in Liverpool at the M&S Bank Arena (sold out); March 28 at London’s The O2; March 31 at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro (an added date); April 2 in Leeds at the First Direct Bank Arena; April 4 at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena (added date); and April 6 at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena (added date). The rapid sell-out of several venues highlights the depth of Ashcroft’s fanbase and the widespread anticipation for his return to the stage.
Virgin Music Group, the distributor behind Lovin’ You, has played a key role in bringing Ashcroft’s latest project to fruition. The partnership underscores the album’s importance not only as a personal milestone for Ashcroft but also as a significant release for the broader music industry. Pre-orders for the album are already available, catering to fans eager to secure their copy ahead of the official release date.
As the countdown to October 10 continues, the buzz surrounding Ashcroft’s new material shows no sign of fading. Music journalists and fans alike are keen to see how Lovin’ You will build on Ashcroft’s impressive legacy. The inclusion of the “Classical Gas” riff is more than a clever homage; it’s a bridge between musical generations, linking the spirit of the late 1960s with the innovation of today’s soundscape. Williams’ approval of the collaboration only adds to the sense of occasion, hinting at the enduring power of a well-crafted melody, no matter the era.
For Ashcroft, the coming months represent a defining chapter. With a sold-out tour, a new album that blends the familiar with the unexpected, and the endorsement of musical legends like Mason Williams, he’s poised to leave an indelible mark on the contemporary music scene. Fans old and new can look forward to a season of memorable performances, fresh sounds, and, above all, the unmistakable voice and vision of Richard Ashcroft.
As autumn approaches, one thing is certain: Ashcroft’s latest chapter is set to be one of his most exciting yet, promising both nostalgia and bold new directions for listeners across the UK and beyond.