AceShowbiz - James Blake has released a tender new waltz titled I Had A Dream She Took My Hand and revealed plans for an extensive North American tour in 2026.

This track is the second single from Blake’s upcoming album Trying Times, his seventh studio project. The album announcement came last month alongside the lead single Death Of Love, signaling a new chapter for the critically acclaimed artist and producer.

Trying Times showcases a delicate balance between vulnerability and hope. Opening with a stripped-back, melancholic melody, Blake’s haunting vocals lead the song as he sings: “I had a dream she took my hand / I feel higher than storms, lighter than sand (It was only a dream).” The chorus deepens the emotional tone with the lines: “Oh, this is love / Let’s stay up / Can we stay here? / She didn’t know.” This theme of emotional complexity runs throughout the album, reflecting moments of solitude amid uncertainty.

The release also includes a live performance video directed by Harrison and Adair, alongside an official lyric video, allowing fans to experience the song’s intimate atmosphere visually and lyrically.

Trying Times will be Blake’s first independent studio album following his departure from Republic Records two years ago. It is set for release on March 13 via Good Boy Records, with pre-orders currently available.

Alongside the new music, James Blake has announced a North American tour starting May 27 in Atlanta at The Tabernacle. The tour features multiple stops, including two nights at Brooklyn Paramount in New York on May 29 and 30, as well as shows in Boston, Washington, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and more. Additional dates are expected to be announced soon.

Tickets for the tour will go on sale Friday, February 20, at 10 a.m. local time. Fans can purchase them through the official ticketing website.

The confirmed 2026 live dates are:

• May 27 – Atlanta, GA – The Tabernacle
• May 29 – New York, NY – Brooklyn Paramount
• May 30 – New York, NY – Brooklyn Paramount
• May 31 – Boston, MA – Roadrunner
• June 2 – Washington, DC – The Anthem
• June 4 – Philadelphia, PA – Franklin Music Hall
• June 6 – Toronto, ON – HISTORY
• June 8 – Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed
• June 11 – Berkeley, CA – Greek Theatre
• June 12 – Los Angeles, CA – The Greek Theatre

Earlier this year, Blake began teasing new music with a cryptic video posted on his Instagram titled I think we might be sleeping, building anticipation for the album’s release.

Trying Times follows his 2023 album Playing Robots Into Heaven, and continues to highlight James Blake’s evolution as an artist blending emotional depth with innovative production.