Multi-platinum, BRIT Award-winning and GRAMMY®-nominated pop visionary MIKA is officially back with his new single “Modern Times,” out now via Republic Records. The song marks the start of a new chapter for one of pop’s most inventive artists, with news of a brand-new album to follow soon.

The release arrives alongside a stunning official music video, filmed in Vienna, Austria and directed by Rupert Höller (Foster the People). Set against an artfully surreal backdrop, the visual mirrors the song’s restless heartbeat, a blend of motion, emotion, and metaphor that only MIKA could conjure.

Opening with five layered piano parts, “like the turning cogs of a mechanical machine that beats the rhythm of a heartbeat,” Modern Times grows from quiet introspection into a soaring, cinematic anthem. Produced by MIKA and Nick Littlemore of Empire of the Sun, with additional production by Peter Mayes of PNAU, the track captures both the tension and beauty of living in an age of constant noise.

“The song for me is like a treadmill, and that treadmill is life,” MIKA explains. “As time goes on and life gets more confusing and sometimes overwhelming, we look further than the world around us, into the world of mythology, desire and dreams. ‘Modern Times’ is a cathedral-like cry, for faith and spirit, resisting the grind and weight of life and the passing of time.”

As writers and listeners, we couldn’t agree more. “Modern Times feels like MIKA reclaiming his crown as one of pop’s true storytellers. It’s theatrical yet sincere, layered yet instantly uplifting, the kind of song that reminds you why he’s stayed so beloved across decades and languages.”

Online, fans have already begun celebrating MIKA’s return. One listener commented on YouTube, “Run, run, run to the beat of the gears of our time, immersed in the universe of Modern Times. Animated by the saturated voice of MIKA’s great return, completely liberated, refusing the fixed constraints of our society. Thank you MIKA for this cry of resilience filled with life and hope!” Another added, “I am so happy that MIKA is trying out new things and sounds. The art direction, the lyrics, the music — it is all unbelievably amazing. I can’t wait for the album and to listen to it live at concerts.”

Their enthusiasm will soon be rewarded. In February 2026, MIKA will embark on his biggest European tour to date, playing fifteen arena shows across the continent, including two major UK dates at London’s OVO Arena Wembley on February 11 and Manchester AO Arena on February 12.

Modern Times signals the beginning of a thrilling new era, one that will lead into MIKA’s forthcoming studio album — a vibrant, emotional collection that continues his lifelong pursuit of blending theatricality, honesty and melody in equal measure.

The single follows an extraordinary creative period for MIKA, who recently co-hosted Italy’s David Di Donatello Awards, mentored on La Voz Spain, La Voix France, X Factor Italy, and the UK’s The Piano, and performed to audiences around the world. Earlier this year, he received the Nordoff & Robbins Global Impact Award in London for his contribution to music and culture. His last album, the French-language Que ta tête fleurisse toujours, debuted in the Top 5 in France and earned Gold status.

With over 20 million albums sold worldwide and certifications in 32 countries, MIKA continues to prove that pop can be both joyful and profound. From his iconic debut Life in Cartoon Motion to his ever-evolving artistry, Modern Times stands as both a celebration of his past and a fearless leap into the future.

Modern Times feels like MIKA reclaiming his crown as one of pop’s true storytellers. It’s theatrical yet sincere, layered yet instantly uplifting, the kind of song that reminds you why he’s stayed so beloved across decades and languages.

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.