Jon Batiste Announces New Album 'Big Money'

Grammy and Oscar-winning multi-hyphenate Jon Batiste has officially announced his next album, Big Money. The genre-defying artist returns on Aug. 22 with what promises to be one of the most creatively ambitious and spiritually rich records of the year.

The announcement came alongside the release of the album’s vibrant title track and music video, available now across streaming platforms. Pre-orders for Big Money are live, including exclusive signed hot pink vinyl (!!!!) here.

Rooted in Batiste’s New Orleans heritage and global vision, Big Money is a groove-driven exploration of ambition, humanity, and the American dream. It is equal parts joy and critique. Written and recorded over just two weeks, much of it live in single takes, the album channels the spirit of old-school jam sessions and porch-front storytelling. Batiste calls upon the energy of American music’s roots to craft something entirely new: New Americana.

“This is the circus of love. Under our tent, there is revival and joy,” Batiste says. “You don’t lose your soul—you gain it. When Mama says, ‘Don’t be a dummy, everybody chasing that big money,’ Mama is pushing you, while warning you. It cuts both ways.”

The album’s title track is both a jam and a statement. Penned immediately after Batiste’s 2024 performance at our Ryman Auditorium, the song began on guitar and evolved into a percussive anthem that examines modern-day capitalism with both irony and hope. The track features retro-soul revivalist Nick Waterhouse and is lifted by the stunning vocals of The Womack Sisters (a powerhouse trio and direct descendants of Sam Cooke’s legacy).

Produced by Batiste and longtime collaborator Dion “No ID” Wilson, the album boasts an enviable list of guests, including Andra Day, Randy Newman, and a collective of musicians more interested in soul than perfection. It’s the rawness of Big Money that will give it its spiritual resonance.

“However you interpret the songs, you can’t help feeling them. You can’t help accepting an invitation into the tent. Come in and have fun…some deeply serious fun.”

The title track “Big Money” and the official music video are available now. The full album drops Aug. 22 via Verve/Interscope.