There has been a significant amount of anticipation surrounding the next creative chapter for My Chemical Romance. Following the band’s enduring legacy and the continued impact of their 2010 release, Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys, fans have been eager for new material. During the group’s October 30 performance at the Hollywood Bowl, frontman Gerard Way provided a definitive update on the band’s trajectory, confirming that My Chemical Romance is prioritizing the creation of a new record in 2027.
A Shift Toward the Studio
Addressing the crowd after a powerful rendition of “DESTROYA,” Way offered a candid look at the band’s upcoming schedule. “You know, sometimes shit will sound, like, intentionally vague, when really it’s just to protect everybody’s feelings involved,” Way explained. “So, yeah. Next year, we wanna go make a record.”
We’re probably not doing any shows [in 2027]. There’s no secret code to that. I mean, maybe if we get really rusty when we’re making something, we’re like, “Alright, let’s call the band ‘Helena’ or something and show up.” But, you know, seriously. We want to go do that and then hopefully, we’ll see you guys in 2028.
While the prospect of a hiatus from live performances may be disappointing to some, the confirmation of a new studio project marks a major milestone for the band. Way emphasized that the decision is rooted in a desire to focus entirely on the creative process, with hopes to reconnect with their audience in 2028.
Live Highlights and Collaborations
The Hollywood Bowl performance was notable for more than just the announcement. The band treated fans to the live debut of the Danger Days B-side, “We Don’t Need Another Song About California.” Way shared that the track, which features a distinct lead riff from guitarist Frank Iero, had long been a “beautiful” piece of the band’s history that had never reached the stage until now.
Furthermore, the night featured a nostalgic reunion as the band was joined by The Used vocalist Bert McCracken for a performance of “You Know What They Do to Guys Like Us in Prison.” This collaboration served as a bookend to the evening, as Way had previously joined The Used for a performance of “Buried Myself Alive” earlier in the night.
Looking Ahead
Beyond the studio plans, the band has been active in engaging their fanbase through unique projects. Recent reports have highlighted the inclusion of “1-of-1” art variants in the 20th-anniversary edition of The Black Parade, with Frank Iero confirming that these rare, hand-modified inserts are part of a collaborative effort with artist James Jean. Additionally, the band’s recent animated short, Prelude to The End, has sparked intense speculation regarding the thematic direction of their future work, effectively silencing any rumors of a permanent breakup.