Dave Announces New Album ‘The Boy Who Played the Harp’ Set for October Release

Exciting news for UK rap fans: Dave’s new album ‘The Boy Who Played the Harp’ is dropping on October 24, promising another deep dive into London’s rich storytelling scene.

Dave’s Latest Chapter: The Boy Who Played the Harp

If you’ve been following Dave’s career, you know this Brixton-born, Streatham-raised rapper has a knack for blending razor-sharp lyricism with soulful narratives. On October 1, Dave shook the music world by announcing his third studio album titled The Boy Who Played the Harp, slated for release on Friday, October 24. The announcement was made via his social media platforms, igniting excitement across his fanbase.

The album’s title and cover art are the only details unveiled so far, but lucky fans can already pre-order it. This new drop comes on the heels of his previous two back-to-back UK number one albums: 2019’s Psychodrama and 2021’s We’re All Alone In This Together, both of which have cemented his reputation as one of the most compelling voices in British hip-hop.

A Clean Slate Sparks Curiosity

The build-up to this announcement was mysterious and cleverly orchestrated. Earlier in the week, Dave wiped all his social media pages clean—an act that always piques the curiosity of fans and critics alike. He then directed followers to a fresh sign-up page, a move that sparked wild speculation about what was coming next. It certainly worked to ramp up anticipation for this new project.

Following Two Landmark Albums

Dave’s previous efforts set a sky-high bar. Psychodrama was a watershed moment in UK rap, offering an intimate portrayal of mental health and social issues that resonated deeply with listeners. We’re All Alone In This Together built upon that foundation, showcasing even greater confidence and maturity.

Critics heavily praised the 2021 album, which featured collaborations with James Blake and Stormzy. It was lauded for its storytelling prowess, clever wordplay, and smooth production. One glowing review summed it up:

“Dave has always been the one to rap traditionally, using hip-hop for what it was intended to do: give a voice to the voiceless... Dave has proved again that he’s a voice of a generation, sitting pretty atop his peers.” – Music Reviewer

Fans and newcomers alike were drawn to how Dave skillfully shines a light on the Black British experience, especially from the perspective of young Black men navigating London’s complex streets and society.

Chart-Topping Success and Cultural Impact

We’re All Alone In This Together wasn’t just critically acclaimed; it also dominated the charts. The album debuted at number one with over 74,000 chart sales in its first week—more than half of which were physical copies. This impressive feat marked the biggest opening week of 2021 in the UK charts and the strongest debut for a UK rap album since Tinie Tempah’s Disc-Overy in 2010.

It also ranks close to Coldplay’s Everyday Life from November 2019, which opened with 81,000 chart sales, showing just how much ground Dave has covered in the mainstream music scene.

On Stage With Legends and Speaking Out

In recent months, Dave has kept busy beyond the studio. He shared the stage with Drake at the Wireless Festival, performing the track "Wanna Know" before being joined by Central Cee for the crowd favorite “Sprinter.” Moments like these not only highlight Dave’s rising star but also his deep connections within the UK rap scene.

Beyond music, Dave isn’t shy about voicing his opinions. Earlier this year, he publicly expressed his frustration with Manchester United’s ownership by the Glazer family, saying the club “will never know peace” under their control. Dave’s love for the Manchester team runs deep, often referenced in his lyrics, including a shout-out to player Amad Diallo in his 2023 track “UK Rap.”

What’s Next for Dave and Fans?

With The Boy Who Played the Harp just weeks away, the anticipation is palpable. Will this album continue Dave's tradition of profound storytelling and social commentary? Given his track record, it’s safe to say it will be an essential listen for anyone interested in UK rap and the vibrant culture it represents.

FAQ

• When is Dave’s new album releasing?
  The Boy Who Played the Harp is set to be released on October 24, 2025.
• What do we know about the album so far?
  Apart from the title, cover art, and release date, official details remain under wraps, but pre-orders are open.
• How successful were Dave’s previous albums?
  Both Psychodrama (2019) and We’re All Alone In This Together (2021) debuted at number one, with the latter having the biggest UK rap opening week since 2010.
• Has Dave collaborated with other big artists?
  Yes, notably James Blake, Stormzy, and he recently performed with Drake and Central Cee at the Wireless Festival.
• What themes does Dave explore in his music?
  He often delves into the Black British experience, mental health, social issues, and personal reflections, narrated with intricate wordplay and emotional depth.

Ready to celebrate Dave’s incredible journey with some iconic album art? Shop your favorite album cover poster at our store here — perfect for any true fan’s wall.