Reverend and the Makers have officially unveiled their latest single, ‘Fucked Up’, featuring a high-profile collaboration with pop icon Robbie Williams. The track serves as the final preview of the band’s highly anticipated eighth studio album, Is This How Happiness Feels?, which is scheduled for release on May 8 via Distiller.

The collaboration marks a significant moment for frontman Jon McClure, who noted that the song explores the complexities of their shared experiences with the pressures of fame and the challenges of growing up in the public eye. “We’d both been through a lot of mad stuff,” McClure explained. “And then you grow as a person, don’t you? Rob’s the soundest fella in the music game. A real pleasure to collab with him.”

The partnership between the two artists blossomed after Williams publicly praised a track written by McClure for The Lottery Winners, titled ‘You Again’. This mutual appreciation led to a genuine friendship, with Reverend and the Makers subsequently joining Williams on his recent ‘Long 90s’ UK tour. Williams had also previously highlighted the band as a must-see act during his Glastonbury recommendations.

Is This How Happiness Feels? follows the success of the band’s top 10 album, Heatwave In The Cold North. Describing the new record as a “joyous triumph” despite the personal hurdles faced during its creation, McClure expressed confidence in the project, stating, “It’s easily the best thing we’ve ever done and will surprise a few people too.”

Beyond his musical endeavors, McClure has been active in other spheres, recently being appointed as the new club chairman of Sheffield FC. He has also been candid about his personal growth, including his recent diagnosis with ADHD, which he credits with helping him better understand his past behaviors and career trajectory.