Craig David is set to make a triumphant return to the music scene with his highly anticipated ninth studio album, titled Commitment, due for release on August 8, 2025. This new album marks a significant milestone in his career, 25 years after his critically acclaimed debut, Born To Do It, which catapulted him to fame and established him as a key figure in the UK music landscape.
Recently, David electrified fans at the O2 Arena in London, showcasing his enduring appeal and talent as a performer. The energy of the concert was palpable, a testament to his ability to engage audiences with his unique blend of R&B and UK Garage sounds.
Commitment is crafted with a stellar production team that includes renowned names such as Mike Brainchild, Toddla T, Tre-Jean Marie, and Wretch 32. This diverse lineup promises a rich sonic experience that reflects David's evolution as an artist while staying true to his roots. The album features notable collaborations with artists Jojo, Tiwa Savage, and Louisa Johnson, adding a fresh dimension to his sound.
The lead single from the album, Wake Up, is already making waves, described as a UK Garage bouncer that pays homage to the genre's roots while infusing it with a contemporary flair. David expressed his thoughts on the track, stating, "Wake Up for me is my way of not only respecting my garage roots, but also keeping alive the cultural foundation of the sound from where it all started. The lyric reinforces literally & metaphorically the essence of making sure we don’t fall asleep on the importance of nurturing something we care about. Especially if we don’t want to end up losing it by taking it for granted."
With Commitment, David aims to blend various facets of his music, creating a collection that resonates with both long-time fans and new listeners. He elaborated on his inspiration for the album, mentioning how the vibes of his past experiences, particularly playing at pirate radio stations, influenced his creative process. "I felt super inspired mixing in the vibes of ‘Indo – R U Sleeping’ on this one, just like me playing out a TS5 garage set. The whole vibe ignited some core memories for me that not only had me in my feels, but inspired me to grab the mic & spit bars again," he said.
David's career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Since the release of Born To Do It, which featured the iconic track Re-Rewind, he has become one of the most successful artists in UK chart history. With 25 UK Top 40 singles, 16 of which reached the Top 10, and nine UK Top 40 albums, Craig David has firmly established himself in the music industry. His ability to adapt and innovate has allowed him to maintain relevance over the decades.
His accolades are impressive, including 14 BRIT Award nominations, two Grammy nominations, four MOBO awards, and three Ivor Novello Awards for his songwriting. Recently, he was also honored with an MBE for his services to music, further solidifying his legacy in the industry.
In addition to his recording success, David has become a prominent figure in the DJ scene, particularly with his TS5 soundsystem in Ibiza, where he has one of the most successful and long-standing residencies. This year marks the seventh season of his return to Ibiza Rocks, where his performances continue to draw large crowds and rave reviews.
As he prepares for the release of Commitment, Craig David's journey serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience and creativity. His ability to blend nostalgia with modern sounds showcases his versatility as an artist, making him a significant voice in the UK music scene.
Fans can pre-order Commitment now, and with the excitement building around the album and its lead single Wake Up, it’s clear that Craig David is ready to reclaim his place at the forefront of the music industry.
