The much-anticipated fifth studio album from rock powerhouse THE PRETTY RECKLESS, titled "Dear God," is slated for release on June 26 via Fearless Records. The announcement comes as frontwoman Taylor Momsen shed light on the album’s extended creation process and the band’s recent significant achievements during a candid interview on SiriusXM’s "Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk" on March 18. This forthcoming release marks a significant milestone for the band, following their critically acclaimed 2021 album, "Death By Rock And Roll."
The Genesis of "Dear God": A Deliberate Creative Journey
The five-year interval between "Death By Rock And Roll" and "Dear God" is not a reflection of diminished output but rather a testament to the band’s meticulous approach to songwriting and production. Momsen elaborated on the recording process, revealing that it spanned an unexpected two years, a duration significantly longer than their typical album cycles. "The recording of this record alone took way longer than anticipated just because of scheduling," Momsen explained. "We actually recorded it over the course of two years, which normally it would be done in… well, I don’t wanna put a timeline on it, but it wouldn’t take two years."
Beyond logistical hurdles, Momsen emphasized the essential need for personal experience to fuel artistic creation. "Life," she stated, "I take time in between albums because I have to live life in between. I have to have something to write about. I have to reflect on everything I just did with the previous record and kind of put that to bed in one way, but also see where the story’s gonna take me next." This philosophy underscores a commitment to authenticity, ensuring that each album is a genuine reflection of the band’s journey.
The songwriting process for THE PRETTY RECKLESS is a deeply personal and collaborative endeavor. Momsen, alongside guitarist Ben Phillips, spearheads the creative direction, with the band’s four core members – Momsen, Phillips, bassist Jamie Perkins, and drummer Todd Harrell – remaining the sole architects of their music. "Me and Ben [Phillips, THE PRETTY RECKLESS guitarist], we write everything," Momsen affirmed. "It’s just the four of us in this band. There is no outside help or writers or forces or anything, and we’re producing it now too. So it takes as long as it takes." This self-sufficiency in both songwriting and production allows for a pure, unadulterated artistic vision, albeit one that requires patience and dedication.
Finding Solace and Inspiration in a Demanding World
In an industry that often demands constant visibility and output, Momsen’s approach to maintaining creative well-being involves a unique form of personal retreat. When asked about her methods for disconnecting and detoxing from the demands of her career, she shared a surprisingly simple yet effective practice: crocheting. "I try to find time," she admitted. "I haven’t really had a break in… I’m not sure how long, but I also spent so much time… With COVID and not getting to fully tour ‘Death By Rock And Roll’ in the traditional sense, the way we normally would tour a record and all that, I feel like I took a long… that almost felt like a hiatus in a weird way. So I feel very good being super busy right now."
Momsen’s ability to find moments for herself stems from a lifelong immersion in the working world, having started her professional career at a remarkably young age. "I was raised working all the time – I started working at two years old – so I learned to find solace in my own head." This internal sanctuary is not a conventional vacation but rather an active cultivation of mindful presence. Her newfound passion for crocheting has become a meditative ritual, offering an hour of quiet contemplation or immersion in music. "My new obsession’s crocheting, and I find it meditative. I crochet for an hour and think in silence or with music. And that’s a break. [Laughs] And it works for me. So I’m cool with that." The meditative quality of crocheting, she explained, has become an integral part of her creative recharge. "Someone taught me to crochet on the first tour, and it’s become an obsession of mine in a way that I kind of can’t believe I haven’t done it my whole life. I’m fully addicted to it. It’s like a new meditation tactic for me. So just endless blankets – I can make endless blankets."
A String of Chart-Topping Successes and Acclaimed Performances
The period leading up to the release of "Dear God" has been marked by a series of significant achievements for THE PRETTY RECKLESS. Their latest single, "When I Wake Up," released earlier in March, has been met with enthusiastic reception. Described in a press release as a track that "leans into a punk-driven sound while staying true to what has become the band’s signature: explosive guitars and Momsen’s unmistakable powerhouse vocal," the single offers a potent preview of the band’s evolving sound.
Furthermore, "Dear God" will feature the band’s previously released chart-topping single, "For I Am Death." This powerful anthem achieved the coveted No. 1 position on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart in November, marking the band’s fourth consecutive No. 1 hit. This remarkable feat solidifies their status as consistent hitmakers in the rock genre and highlights their enduring appeal to a dedicated fanbase. The band has now achieved this impressive milestone of four consecutive No. 1s on the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart on two separate occasions, a testament to their sustained impact.
The band’s momentum is further propelled by the announcement of the "Dear God" headlining tour. This global trek will commence in North America, with planned stops in major cities such as New Orleans, Dallas, and Los Angeles, before extending to Europe. This tour follows an extensive and highly successful two-year global run alongside rock legends AC/DC on their "Power Up" tour, a significant opportunity that exposed THE PRETTY RECKLESS to an even wider audience and further cemented their reputation as a formidable live act.
A Landmark Year of Artistic Recognition and Nostalgia
The upcoming year promises to be a landmark period for THE PRETTY RECKLESS, building on an exceptional past 12 months filled with prestigious performances and impactful releases. In a notable moment, the band delivered an acclaimed performance at the 2026 MusiCares Person Of The Year Gala. During this event, Taylor Momsen paid tribute to the legendary Mariah Carey, sharing the stage with esteemed artists such as the FOO FIGHTERS. This performance showcased Momsen’s versatility and her ability to command attention across different musical landscapes.
Adding to their impressive resume, the band also made a memorable appearance at the 2025 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame induction ceremony. There, Momsen performed alongside the iconic SOUNDGARDEN, a collaboration that undoubtedly resonated deeply with fans of grunge and hard rock. These high-profile engagements underscore the band’s growing stature within the music industry and their ability to connect with legendary artists.
The band also delved into the festive spirit with the release of their holiday EP, "Taylor Momsen’s Pretty Reckless Christmas." This special collection featured a reimagined version of the classic "Where Are You Christmas?" The lead single from this EP achieved No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Hard Rock Songs chart, a significant accomplishment that reignited the band’s connection with their global fanbase and tapped into decades of nostalgia. This success with a holiday-themed release further demonstrates the broad appeal and enduring legacy of THE PRETTY RECKLESS.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter in "Dear God"
The release of "Dear God" signifies the continuation of THE PRETTY RECKLESS’s robust artistic evolution. With a foundation built on powerful songwriting, relentless touring, and a genuine connection with their audience, the band is poised to deliver another impactful chapter in their career. The extended creative process, the personal reflections, and the recent triumphs all converge to form the rich tapestry from which "Dear God" will undoubtedly emerge. Fans can anticipate a collection that embodies the band’s signature blend of raw emotion, potent instrumentation, and Momsen’s distinctive vocal prowess, further solidifying their position as a leading force in contemporary rock music. The "Dear God" tour promises to bring their electrifying stage presence to audiences worldwide, offering a chance to experience these new anthems and fan favorites live.