Rick Springfield’s latest album, Automatic, released in 2023, marks his first collection of entirely new studio material in five years. Fans can rejoice, as they won’t have to endure a lengthy wait for what’s next on the horizon. Springfield is already busy crafting new sounds and experiences for his dedicated listeners.

The iconic singer-songwriter has recently unveiled a captivating new single titled “Lose Myself.” In a recent interview with the UCR Podcast, he shared insights about his upcoming album, indicating a shift in his musical direction. “I think it’s going to be a little different,” he stated. “It’s going to be a little heavier. There?s an approach I’m experimenting with that remains uncertain, but we?ll see how it unfolds.”

His single “Lose Myself” features prominently on Big Hits: Rick Springfield’s Greatest Hits, Vol. 2. This compilation shines a light on his musical journey over the past 25 years, beginning with the 1999 release of Karma. Reflecting on this era, Springfield expressed pride in his evolution as an artist. “I’ve always felt the material I’ve created since Karma surpasses anything from the ’80s, which made me a household name,” he revealed. “I prioritize being a songwriter above all else. It’s a passion that drives me, and my goal is to continue evolving and improving. I believe my albums showcase a significant progression in my songwriting skills, which brings me great satisfaction.”

Watch Rick Springfield’s ‘Lose Myself’ Video

Springfield elaborated on the unique nature of his discography, citing Jeff Moskow, who curated the new compilation. “Aside from Working Class Dog and Success Hasn’t Spoiled Me Yet, each album has embraced a different sound and writing style,” he noted. “This next project I’m developing will also take a new direction.”

READ MORE: Discover the Journey of Rick Springfield and His Breakthrough with ‘Working Class Dog’

Springfield attributes the heavier tone of his current work to his enduring passion for guitars. “Yet, I also have a deep appreciation for ballads,” he added. “In the early ’70s, the standout tracks from my albums were predominantly ballads. My soft, emotional voice lent itself to that genre, and I was pleasantly surprised when my first hit emerged as a guitar-driven, straightforward pop/rock anthem. Guitars have always been at the core of my music, accompanied by a desire to create something more expansive and profound.”

“The new material will blend powerful guitar riffs with the synth sounds I cherish,” he explained. “In music, there are no strict guidelines. No one is pressuring me to recreate Working Class Dog, and even if they did, I wouldn?t. I was in my late twenties when I crafted that album. As we go through life, our perspectives shift, our preferences evolve, and fresh ideas emerge. It?s essential to embrace these changes. Attempting to replicate past hits is a futile endeavor; I recall Ray Davies trying to rewrite a ‘You Really Got Me’ style track for the Give The People What They Want album. While it was good, it never captured the magic of the original.”

Springfield is set to embark on the I Want My ’80s tour alongside John Waite and other artists, kicking off on May 28 in St. Petersburg. The tour is scheduled to conclude on August 10 in Henderson, Nevada, offering fans a chance to experience his music live.

Listen to Rick Springfield on the ‘UCR Podcast’