Melanie C Announces New Album “Sweat” for May 2026
LONDON, 22 January 2026 – Melanie Chisholm, the iconic “Sporty Spice” of the Spice Girls, has announced her ninth solo studio album, “Sweat,” set for release on 1 May 2026. The announcement, made via her official channels, heralds a new dance-pop era for the singer, accompanied by a lead single of the same name and a confirmed headline show at London’s O2 Academy Brixton in October.
A New Dance-Pop Chapter
Recorded between London, Stockholm, and Los Angeles, “Sweat” is described as Melanie C’s most euphoric record to date. The album marks a deliberate shift towards the electronic dance music she has embraced in her recent work as a DJ. The title track, “Sweat,” an electro-house anthem that samples Diana Ross’s “Work That Body,” was released in October 2025 and has been performed at festivals including Hoopla Malta. In a statement, Chisholm said, “I’ve done a lot of soul-searching. Now I just want to have some fun and get people dancing again.” She has also released a remix of the single by producer Guz.
Key Facts & Career Snapshot
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Melanie Jayne Chisholm |
| Born | 12 January 1974, Whiston, England |
| Spice Girls Role | Sporty Spice (1994-2000, with reunions) |
| Solo Debut | “Northern Star” (1999) – 3x Platinum in UK |
| Record Label | Founder of Red Girl Records |
| Estimated Net Worth | $30 million (approx. €27 million) |
| New Album | “Sweat” – Release 1 May 2026 (Virgin Music Group) |
| Confirmed Show | O2 Academy Brixton, London – 23 October 2026 |
From Girl Power to Solo Power
Melanie C rose to global fame in the mid-1990s as part of the Spice Girls, one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. Following the group’s initial hiatus, she launched the most successful solo music career of any member. Her 1999 debut “Northern Star” sold over two million copies worldwide. She later founded her own label, Red Girl Records, maintaining artistic control over subsequent albums like “Beautiful Intentions” (2005) and her self-titled 2020 release. Beyond music, she has worked in theatre – earning an Olivier Award nomination for “Blood Brothers” – and television as a coach on “The Voice Kids UK” and, most recently, “The Voice Australia” in 2025.
Financial Legacy and Advocacy
With an estimated net worth of $30 million, Melanie C ranks among the wealthier Spice Girls, a fortune built on group royalties, successful solo tours, and business ventures. She has been notably open about her past struggles with depression and an eating disorder, using her platform to advocate for mental health awareness. Her 2022 autobiography, “Who I Am: My Story,” detailed these experiences. The singer remains a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, regularly performing at Pride events worldwide with drag collective Sink the Pink.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Melanie C’s new album out?
Melanie C’s ninth studio album, “Sweat,” is scheduled for release on 1 May 2026.
Will Melanie C tour in 2026?
A headline show at the O2 Academy Brixton in London is confirmed for 23 October 2026. Further tour dates are expected to be announced. She also has several DJ sets scheduled internationally throughout the year.
What is Melanie C’s net worth?
Various reputable sources estimate Melanie C’s net worth to be approximately $30 million (around €27 million or £23 million). This stems from Spice Girls earnings, her solo career, endorsements, and investments.
Are the Spice Girls reuniting?
While the group reunited for tours in 2007-2008 and again in 2019 (without Victoria Beckham), there is no official announcement of a new full-group reunion. Melanie C has publicly expressed a desire for the group to perform at Glastonbury.