Charli XCX has released “Wink Wink,” the third single from her upcoming album Music, Fashion, Film, which arrives July 24 via Atlantic. Directed by Aidan Zamiri, the accompanying music video features the artist in a series of domestic and surreal vignettes. The release follows her previous singles “Rock Music” and “SS26,” continuing a promotional cycle that includes a forthcoming arena tour and headlining festival appearances at Lollapalooza, Outside Lands, and Austin City Limits.
How does Music, Fashion, Film differ from previous projects?
While Charli XCX has publicly denied that Music, Fashion, Film is a rock album, the project marks a departure from her previous work. The album’s visual and promotional aesthetic features figures like John Cale, fashion designer Marc Jacobs, and director Martin Scorsese on the cover. This follows Wuthering Heights, which served as a companion album soundtracking Emerald Fennell’s film adaptation of the titular novel.
Charli XCX is maintaining a high output pace in 2026, with Music, Fashion, Film serving as her second full-length album of the year.
What is the strategy behind the “Wink Wink” video release?
The release of “Wink Wink” utilized a truncated promotional window, with the artist providing one hour of notice before the single’s arrival. Directed by Aidan Zamiri, the video uses domestic imagery—such as window cleaning and eating strawberries—to subvert the “bad girl” persona referenced in the song’s lyrics.
How are artists changing the standard album cycle?
Charli XCX’s current trajectory reflects a broader industry shift. By dropping singles like “Rock Music” and “SS26” alongside a companion soundtrack earlier in the year, she is sustaining public interest.
Pro Tip: The Importance of Cross-Genre Appeal
Artists who integrate high-fashion and film icons into their marketing—like Charli XCX’s inclusion of Martin Scorsese and Marc Jacobs—often see higher conversion rates in non-musical press, which widens their demographic reach beyond core fanbases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Music, Fashion, Film a rock album?
No, Charli XCX has explicitly denied this characterization, despite the release of a single titled “Rock Music.”
Where can I see Charli XCX perform in 2026?
She is scheduled to headline Lollapalooza, Outside Lands, and Austin City Limits, in addition to a planned arena tour to support the new album.
Are the “b-sides” mentioned in recent news on the new album?
No, the tracks released as supplemental material are not part of the album’s tracklist for Music, Fashion, Film.
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