Wicked Discuss “Go Rebel” Single and Vicious Rumors Tour 2026

Wicked Discuss “Go Rebel” Single and Vicious Rumors Tour 2026

Wicked are stepping into 2026 with momentum, new music, and a sharpened identity that reflects both growth and intention. With the release of their latest single “Go Rebel” and a full album on the way this summer, the band is entering a new phase—one that leans heavier, broader in scope, and more connected to the community around them.

In a recent conversation on Metal Mayhem ROC, the band laid out the roadmap: multiple singles rolling out ahead of the album, a Northeast run with Vicious Rumors, and a creative direction that pushes beyond the more self-reflective tone of their previous work. The result is a band not just releasing music, but actively building a movement around it.

The Catalyst

The current cycle for Wicked began with a deliberate shift in how they approach releases. Rather than dropping a full album all at once, the band is pacing out singles and videos, creating an ongoing rollout that keeps fans engaged while building anticipation for the full record.

“Go Rebel” follows the earlier single “Obsession,” with several more tracks and videos already in the pipeline. The band described this phase as one of the most exciting parts of the process—an opportunity to stay active, visible, and connected with listeners over time rather than in one concentrated release window.

This approach also aligns with their touring strategy. By the time the album arrives later this summer, Wicked will have already introduced much of its DNA live and online, giving fans multiple entry points into the new material.

The Creative Process

Wicked’s creative process remains rooted in collaboration, but it has evolved in both structure and intent. The band emphasized that while their core influences remain intact, the songwriting itself has become more deliberate, with a focus on making each release feel distinct from the last.

There is also a strong visual component tied to the music. Each single is paired with a video, and those productions are treated as full experiences rather than simple performance clips. Destination shoots, themed visuals, and a sense of escapism are all part of the package, reinforcing the band’s identity beyond just the audio.

This multi-layered approach reflects a band that understands modern release cycles—where music, visuals, and storytelling all work together to build impact.

Sound, Intent, or Message

Sonically, the upcoming material marks a noticeable progression. While previous releases leaned more toward a power-pop edge, the new songs introduce heavier elements—stronger riffs, more aggressive hooks, and a broader dynamic range.

At the same time, Wicked are not abandoning their foundation. The band still draws from classic influences, but instead of replicating them, they are allowing those influences to evolve naturally within their own sound.

Lyrically and thematically, there is also a shift. Where earlier work focused more inward, the new material expands outward, placing greater emphasis on the scene, the fans, and the shared experience of rock and roll. It is a conscious move toward inclusivity—building something that listeners can see themselves in.

Touring / What’s Next

Wicked are taking this new material directly to the stage with an upcoming Northeast run alongside Vicious Rumors. The tour serves both as a proving ground and as a bridge between releases, allowing fans to experience the new songs in a live setting before the album arrives.

The band spoke openly about the influence of touring with veteran acts like Vicious Rumors and Raven. Beyond exposure to new audiences, these experiences have shaped their approach to performance, discipline, and consistency on the road.

That influence is already finding its way into the music. Some of the heavier elements in the new material can be traced back to time spent on those tours, absorbing both the sound and the mindset of more seasoned bands.

In addition to the tour, Wicked are planning a steady run of shows throughout the year, including hometown appearances and one-off dates with other acts. Limited-edition physical releases and exclusive merchandise tied to specific shows are also part of the strategy, reinforcing the importance of the live experience.

Why This Interview Matters

This conversation captures Wicked at a pivotal moment. They are no longer operating purely as an emerging band—they are refining their identity, expanding their reach, and making intentional decisions about how they present themselves and their music.

What stands out most is the balance between evolution and consistency. The band is willing to push into new territory, but not at the expense of what brought them here. That balance is often what separates bands that sustain momentum from those that stall.

Equally important is their emphasis on team and infrastructure. From touring opportunities to industry access points like NAMM and the Metal Hall of Fame events, it is clear that Wicked are building around more than just the music—they are building a network that supports long-term growth.

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