Pop superstar Kesha has announced the upcoming release of her fifth studio album, titled Gag Order. The album, produced by legendary rock and hip-hop producer Rick Rubin, is set to debut on May 19th under RCA and Kemosabe Records. The latter label was founded by Kesha’s alleged abuser, Dr. Luke, with whom the singer has been in a legal battle with since 2017.
The title of the album is inspired by the legal battle, with Kesha stating that “there has been an implied gag order for a very long time now” due to the ongoing litigation. Kesha has been unable to speak freely as everything she says is heavily scrutinized. The album announcement is particularly significant as Kesha is still unable to break her contract with Kemosabe Records, making it her first album under the label since the legal battle began.
Despite the legal battle, Kesha has continued to release music, with her last album, High Road, debuting in 2020. The album reached number seven on the US Billboard 200 albums chart, making it Kesha’s fourth top ten album.
Kesha has also teased the album’s release with visuals, including a shot of her face wrapped in a plastic bag. The album’s first two songs will be released on April 28th, with fans eagerly anticipating the release of Gag Order.
Aside from her music career, Kesha has been open about her sexuality, previously stating that she is attracted to both men and women and being in an open relationship. Her announcement of the new album has been met with excitement from fans and industry insiders alike, with many eagerly anticipating the release of Gag Order.