TĀLĀ - Ghosts (Single) + 10 Questions
TĀLĀ returns with new single ‘Ghosts’ a haunting first glimpse of her 2026 album.
British Iranian singer, songwriter and producer TĀLĀ makes a striking return with her new single ‘Ghosts’, a track that folds her Iranian heritage into the shadows and shimmer of the UK’s underground electronic scene. Known for her immersive blend of R&B, electronica and global influences, she first caught attention in 2014 with her self produced The Duchess EP, a release that set her apart as a fearless sound builder.
‘Ghosts’ marks the first chapter of TĀLĀ’s forthcoming album, due in early 2026, and explores that uncomfortable but transformative space where darkness becomes a guide rather than an enemy. Reflecting on the writing process, she recalls being in a difficult place emotionally, with the lyric “I’ve been chasing ghosts tonight, I’ve been running from them all my life” becoming a moment of clarity. The song leans into the idea that the things we fear, the ghosts we drag behind us, can ultimately become part of our strength.
The track hints at the wider themes shaping the album: duality, loss, rebuilding and the strange beauty that can emerge from upheaval. It is an ode to heartbreak and renewal, suggesting that new light often arrives only after everything else has fallen away.
Raised in Hampton by an Iranian father and English mother, TĀLĀ grew up surrounded by an eclectic mix from Googoosh to Garage, R&B to Michael Ball, and that open handed musical upbringing still pulses through her production. Her early rise saw support from Channel 4’s Future Sounds, Vevo DSCVR and Dazed’s influential creatives list, alongside sold out London headline shows. More recently she executive produced BANKS’ Serpentina, collaborated with ENNY on Champagne Problems, and joined the British Council’s digital residency to work with artists in Indonesia.
With ‘Ghosts’, TĀLĀ sets the tone for what promises to be one of next year’s most intriguing albums. For now, consider this a beautifully crafted reminder that confronting the dark can be its own kind of illumination.
TĀLĀ sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
I grew up in a very multicultural household with my father being Iranian and my English mum, there was an eclectic mix of music being played in our home.
My dad was a frustrated musician and had an array of tablas and sitars in our house and I remember him and his friends would have jam sessions that I would love.
When I was 7 I started playing the piano and I think it was pretty clear from that age that all I wanted to absorb myself in was music.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
Googoosh, Bon Iver and Timbaland.
3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?
I have an album that I’ve been working on for the past few years. It explores the idea of duality and how we need the light and the dark, the opposing things and experiences in life. It’s something that I think I was really interested in from experiencing loss and the journey that it takes you on.
4. How would you describe your sound?
East meets west, a juxtaposition.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
Helping exec produce Banks’ Album Serpentina. I’m so proud of that project and had never worked on an album in that way, seeing it from start to finish. I learnt so much.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
Just do the thing, stop talking about it, just go out and there and try it and keep trying. You don’t just wake up with talent, you have to work on it and hone your craft.
7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?
Doggone - I heard this song ‘Unforgiven’ the other day and I fell in love.
Not a new artist but I just discovered them and I’m obsessed!
Georgy, an artist I’ve been working on. She produces her own music and is so inspiring when it comes to sound design and the worlds she’s creating.
Sasha Keable, I just think she’s so fresh, especially when it comes to the UK music scene. I remember her from when she worked with disclosure and to see how she’s grown as an artist is so inspiring.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Over mono, Dijon, Rosalia’s new album and Studio Ghibli lullaby’s because my 2 year old falls asleep to them.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
Spending time with my daughter, I am a true chef at heart and honestly if I’m not making music I’m creating something in the kitchen for the people I love.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
Incense or/and a candle, I need to cleanse the space and set the tone.
Snacks and water because I can honestly go hours staring at my screen forgetting to eat or drink!
My op-1 even if I don’t use it I like to have it there as an option. It’s a fun studio toy I love to have on hand.