Sparks have announced details of a huge gig taking place at London’s Royal Hospital Chelsea next year.
The new live show takes place as part of the capital’s Live At Chelsea concert series, which is returning in 2026 for its first edition in four years.
The band, formed of brothers Ron and Russell Mael, will be taking to the stage on Friday June 12. Their slot follows them dropping their acclaimed 28th studio album ‘MAD!’ and the companion EP ‘MADDER!’ in 2024, and since breaking onto the charts back in 1974 with their hit song ‘This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Both of Us’.
With today’s announcement (Monday December 1), Sparks are the third artist confirmed to be headlining the outdoor shows at London’s Royal Hospital Chelsea next summer.
First to be announced was The Proclaimers, who will be headlining on Saturday June 13. Last month The Beach Boys were also confirmed as joining the bill, set to celebrate 60 years of ‘Pet Sounds’ on Sunday June 14.
Tickets go on sale on Friday (December 5) at 10am and pre-sale options begin from Wednesday (December 3) at the same time. A portion of proceeds from the concerts supports the ongoing care of the Chelsea Pensioners – visit here to get tickets.
Sparks Royal Hospital Chelsea poster. CREDIT: Press
Earlier this year, Sparks spoke to NME about their latest album ‘Mad!’, and also opened up about their thoughts on Donald Trump’s America, and their approval of The Last Dinner Party, who have covered their song ‘This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Both of Us’ numerous times.
Speaking about the latter Russell Mael told us: “It’s really good. They’ve raised the key and sing it higher than Sparks, if you can believe that. If they ever duet with us on that song, they’ll have to meet us halfway.”
When asked if they would consider working with the former NME Cover stars and BRIT winners, he responded: “I saw them in LA and went backstage. When I left, it was: ‘Hey, let’s do something together!’ from both sides. Those things usually don’t end up happening, but let’s see.
“I think they’re really good, and a song with them would be fun. They seemed genuine about doing something, and I genuinely think it’d be cool to do something together too.”
The post Sparks announce huge 2026 London Royal Hospital Chelsea show appeared first on NME.
