GoGo Penguin Provide a Sense of Comfort with New Single “Everything Is Going to Be OK”

It’s the title track from the Manchester trio’s new album, out tomorrow.
First Listen

GoGo Penguin Provide a Sense of Comfort with New Single “Everything Is Going to Be OK”

It’s the title track from the Manchester trio’s new album, out tomorrow.

Words: Margaret Farrell

Photo: Emily Dennison

April 13, 2023

Manchester’s GoGo Penguin almost broke up—but to the world’s relief, they’ve only come out stronger following their near-end. The Mercury Prize–winners are about to release a new album called Everything Is Going to Be OK tomorrow, but today they are sharing the title track. Turns out, everything is going to be OK.

“A few years ago our monitor engineer put a sticker on my bass amplifier that said the phrase ‘Everything is going to be OK’,” the band's Nick Blacka shares. “Every time I go to switch it on, I see this message. When we were writing this track, we recorded a quick demo and Chris asked me what we should call it. I just instinctively said ‘Everything Is Going to Be OK.’ As time went on and we grew into the band’s new chapter, the title became more resonant and meaningful.”

Bandmate Chris Illingworth expands on the idea, adding: “When Nick and I were chatting about the title we realized we were both considering it from different angles: it brings both a sense of comfort and futility. The reality is that things won’t always be OK, there will always be ups and downs in life and that’s OK. But when someone says to you ‘Everything is going to be OK,’ those words come from a place of love and respect—it’s a reminder that they care for you and are there for you. It’s been a tough few years for us all and it’s a beautiful thing to be reminded that we are there for each other and will be no matter what life throws at us.”

Watch the performance video for the piano-and-double-bass-heavy instrumental “Everything Is Going to Be OK” below, and expect the group's new LP of the same name to drop tomorrow.