Michael Kiwanuka previews his self-produced FUDGE with “Summer Clothes”
The October 2 single opens his fifth album, scheduled for October 23; his live commitments remain on hold.
Michael Kiwanuka has released “Summer Clothes,” the opening song and first preview of FUDGE. His fifth album is scheduled for October 23 through Polydor. Kiwanuka took charge of production on this record, a change from his work with longtime collaborators Danger Mouse and Inflo.
A different setup behind the record
FUDGE began in a makeshift Southampton studio and was recorded in early 2025. He then worked with producer Dom Monks in Frome and strings collaborator Rosie Danvers to finish it. Its writing overlapped with the work for his 2024 album Small Changes before developing into a separate project.
The “Summer Clothes” video was directed by Yout. Kiwanuka found its starting point in the creativity of everyday life, including the work of Southampton’s local tailors. The setting connects the visual to the city where he built the album.
Polydor says the release was held while Kiwanuka dealt with ongoing ill health, which he had addressed directly on social media. His live commitments remain on hold indefinitely. “Summer Clothes” is available now, with FUDGE set to arrive October 23.
