Gorillaz & Sparks unite for "The Happy Dictator" on Kimmel. See the live performance from their chart-topping album, The Mountain.
- April 15, 2026
AceShowbiz - The fusion of British virtual band Gorillaz and American alternative pop duo Sparks created an unforgettable moment for music enthusiasts. The two acts joined forces for a live rendition of "The Happy Dictator," the lead single from Gorillaz' ninth studio album, The Mountain, marking a unique collaboration between these distinct musical worlds.
Late-night viewers tuning into Jimmy Kimmel Live witnessed the performance as Gorillaz brought their signature blend of animation and live music to the stage. Frontman Damon Albarn donned military attire, aviator sunglasses, and a red beret, fully embodying the character of the "happy dictator" during the set.
The Mountain has proven to be a commercial success, hitting the peak position on the U.K. charts as the third chart-topping album for Gorillaz. Across the Atlantic, the album achieved the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart, marking the band's fourth time topping this chart.
The album's production credits include Gorillaz, James Ford, Samuel Egglenton, Remi Kabaka Jr., and Bizarrap. Recording sessions took place in a variety of locations: Studio 13 in London and Devon, multiple cities in India such as Mumbai, New Delhi, Rajasthan, and Varanasi, as well as Ashgabat, Damascus, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York. The project features an impressive array of collaborators, including Sparks, and showcases songs performed in five languages—Arabic, English, Hindi, Spanish, and Yoruba—reflecting a global musical tapestry.
Following the album’s release, Gorillaz are embarking on The Mountain Tour, which will cover the U.K. and Europe. Notably, the band will headline a major one-off show at London's Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This event is set to be the biggest performance by Gorillaz in their home country to date. Support acts for the show will include Sparks and Trueno.
Fans and new listeners alike can watch the late-night performance of "The Happy Dictator" on Jimmy Kimmel Live and stay updated with Gorillaz’ evolving tour plans. This collaboration highlights the band’s continued innovation and willingness to blend diverse musical styles and cultures, further solidifying their position as pioneers in the modern music scene.