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You may have heard of the particular band name Arctic Monkeys before, knowing their most popular songs like “Do I Wanna Know,” “505,” and “I Wanna Be Yours.” They currently have the 41st most monthly listeners on the top 100 Spotify list, making them a well-known British alternative rock band.
The Arctic Monkeys started out as a band in Sheffield, England, where the lead singer, Alex Turner, was born and raised. The band was formed in 2002, consisting of the three bandmates, lead singer Alex Turner, drummer Matt Helders, and bassist Andy Nicholson. The band got its very first gig in 2003 at a pub called The Grapes. They gained popularity through online sharing of their talent, leading to their signing for a record deal with Domino Records in 2005, later leading to a debut single in October in the same year named “I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor,” the single leading them to be 1# on the UK Singles Chart. Later then in 2006, they released their very first album “Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not,” which became the fastest-selling debut album in UK chart history at the time, selling over 360,000 copies in the first week. In the very same year, bassist Andy Nicholson left the band, being replaced by Nick O’ Malley. The Arctic Monkeys continued to release successful singles and episodes, later releasing their second album “Favourite Worst Nightmare” which also reached 1# on the UK music charts, additionally winning the Mercury Music Prize as well.
The Arctic Monkeys' most recent albums, “The Car” and “Tranquility Base Casino and Hotel,” both show an evolution of maturity in the band's music, transitioning to a more orchestral and lounge-pop style. The albums have been recognized as more “grandiose” and “slick,” with an orchestral backing, making the songs sound luxurious and feel like dancing under a mirrorball. One of the most preferred songs is “Body Paint” for its strong outro and lyrical themes.
Recently, the future of the Arctic Monkeys has been speculations of a new album coming up, along with a possible tour in 2026. Latterly, in August, the band registered Bang Bang Recordings LLP and updated their website, replacing “The Car” artwork with a newsletter sign–up link. Further evidence to back the suspicions, a post from the account “Has It Leaked” claimed there were studio sessions booked for November. The same account made an educated guess that there might be a 2026 summer tour. Of course, all these hints have fans like me in a chokehold of excitement, but we will have to see what the future holds. Until then, Bobcats!
Written By: Arya Sladen-Suarez
Edited By: Kathalena Navarro
Image Credit: Spotify. (2025). [Photograph] Spotify. https://open.spotify.com/artist/7Ln80lUS6He07XvHI8qqHH