Belinda Carlisle Releases Album of 60s and 70s Covers, Reflects on Go-Go's Reunion

What's Happening?

Belinda Carlisle has released a new album titled 'Once Upon a Time in California,' featuring covers of 60s and 70s AM radio hits that influenced her during her youth in Burbank, California. The album includes songs like 'The Air That I Breathe,' 'Get Together,' and 'Superstar.' Carlisle's project, which began before the pandemic, was completed in January 2025. The album follows the Go-Go's reunion performances at Coachella and other California venues earlier this year. Carlisle discusses her personal connection to the songs and the influence of California's music culture during her formative years.

Why It's Important?

The release of 'Once Upon a Time in California' highlights the enduring influence of 60s and 70s music on contemporary artists. Carlisle's choice to cover these songs reflects a nostalgic connection to a bygone era of California music culture, which shaped her career. The Go-Go's reunion underscores the band's lasting legacy and impact on punk and pop music. Carlisle's album may attract fans of classic hits and introduce younger audiences to the music that inspired her. The project also showcases her versatility as an artist, bridging different musical eras and styles.

What's Next?

Belinda Carlisle has a solo tour planned in England and may schedule additional performances in the U.S. next year. While there are no current plans for further Go-Go's reunions, Carlisle remains open to future opportunities. Her ongoing animal activism, including a donkey sanctuary project in Mexico, continues to be a focus alongside her music career. Fans can expect Carlisle to explore new musical projects, potentially inspired by her life in Mexico, while maintaining her connection to classic and punk music.

Beyond the Headlines

Carlisle's album release and Go-Go's reunion highlight the cultural shifts in California's music scene from the 60s to the punk era of the late 70s. Her reflections on the California dream and its changes over time offer insights into the state's evolving identity. The album's nostalgic themes may resonate with listeners who experienced the original era, while also sparking interest in the historical context of the music among younger audiences.