Jill Scott is set to release her highly anticipated album, "To Whom This May Concern," on February 13, 2026, marking her first full-length project in over ten years. The announcement was made on Instagram, where Scott shared her excitement about the culmination of her creative process. Fans received a preview of the album with the release of the single "Beautiful People," a heartfelt tribute to the individuals who stood by her during her hiatus from music. The album's artwork features a touching image of her mother, Joyce Alice, underscoring the personal inspiration behind the new work. This comeback album promises to deliver the rich storytelling and soulful sound that her listeners cherish, with contributions from a stellar lineup of collaborators.
Scott's Instagram post earlier this month signaled her return, stating, "The inspiration has finally manifested, and the countdown to greatness has officially begun." This message ignited anticipation among her fanbase, leading to the official announcement of the album's title and release date. The lead single, "Beautiful People," reflects Scott's gratitude towards her support system, highlighting the collaborative spirit that fueled her creative process. She emphasized the communal effort involved in music creation, noting, "Creating takes a village. I’m sharing my beautiful people most literally."
The visual component of the single, featuring her mother on the cover, provides a poignant insight into Scott's personal influences. She lovingly described her mother's impact, writing, "She gave me creativity like you hand somebody an embroidered napkin. She taught me how to hold given flowers. She showed me how to feel music. She shared her imagination." This deep connection to her roots and personal history is expected to be a central theme throughout the album.
"To Whom This May Concern" follows her critically acclaimed 2015 album, "Woman," and boasts an impressive list of collaborators, including Andre Harris, Adam Blackstone, Darhyl Camper, DJ Premier, and Trombone Shorty. Scott expressed her appreciation for their involvement, stating that the record "had and has a bevy of thoughtful, talented and focused folk to assist me on my work. Sometimes musician, sometimes, just a releasing friend to laugh with. We had fun!!!" She also extended her thanks to her audience for their unwavering patience and support.
Last year, Scott's debut album, "Who Is Jill Scott?," celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary. Reflecting on its enduring legacy in a 2015 interview, she likened her relationship with the album to reading a cherished story, where its meaning deepens with time and experience. She noted that the album resonates with listeners at different stages of their lives, evoking fond memories and connecting with personal experiences. With her new album, Scott aims to continue this tradition of meaningful storytelling and profound connection, offering a fresh collection of music that speaks to a broader audience.
The forthcoming album represents not just a return to the music scene for Jill Scott, but a continuation of her artistic journey, enriched by personal reflection and collaborative effort. It is poised to offer fans a fresh perspective on her experiences, maintaining the soulful integrity and evocative lyricism that have defined her career. The project is a testament to her enduring artistry and her ability to weave compelling narratives through her music, ensuring that her new work will resonate deeply with listeners.