Def Leppard singer Joe Elliott recently discussed the band’s latest single “Rejoice” and explained his philosophy on the band’s role as entertainers. He shared his thoughts in an interview with France 24.
Elliott elaborated on the creative process behind “Rejoice” and how it embodies the band’s core mission of providing uplifting entertainment.
“Well, the title kind of sums it up, really. I wanted to write a really uplifting, positive-message song, and I said to Phil [Collen, Def Leppard guitarist], ‘I got this great idea. I need it to be mid-tempo. I want it to have a big intro drum loop so we can actually walk on stage to this and expand it and make it longer live,'” Elliott said.
The frontman went on to describe the song’s structure and message. He emphasized its positive nature.
“But the whole idea of the song is, it starts off — I mean, it’s a great opening line, is, ‘I’m bored of boredom. I’m sick of all this.’ And, ‘I wanna be in a better place.’ So it gets to the climax, you go through the bridge, and you get to the chorus, it’s, ‘I wanna go higher.’ So it’s just very uplifting. It’s a joyous, uplifting song,” he continued.
Elliott then explained the broader philosophy that drives Def Leppard’s approach to music and performance.
“That’s what we are — we’re an escapism band. We’re not here to preach. We’re not here to tell you who to vote for. Other people can do that. We like to take you away from that and just come and have a good time. It’s not meaningless — there is a message there, and the message is, we need to share this moment together and make it a positive one. And ‘Rejoice’ just about sums that all up,” Elliott concluded.
The release of “Rejoice” comes at a particularly active time for the legendary rock band. They continue to balance new creative endeavors with celebrating their extensive catalog.
Blabbermouth.net reported that Elliott confirmed the band is actively recording a new album with “about 17 or 18 songs written.” “Rejoice” serves as the lead single ahead of their Las Vegas residency. The track was released in late January 2026 via UMe, showcasing the band’s continued commitment to creating new material after decades in the industry.
The timing of “Rejoice” strategically aligns with several major projects for the band. Metal Planet Music noted that the single precedes a new “Greatest Hits” vinyl edition set for release on June 12, 2026, featuring classics like “Pour Some Sugar On Me” and “Hysteria.” The collection will be available in both standard black vinyl and a blood red marbled tour exclusive edition.
The new single also supports Def Leppard’s extensive touring schedule for 2026. Rock News revealed that the band has planned a UK and Europe tour with Extreme in June and July, including performances at The O2 London and a rare Paris show. This follows their February Las Vegas residency at Caesars Palace and an India tour, demonstrating the band’s global reach and enduring popularity.
Elliott’s collaboration with guitarist Phil Collen on “Rejoice” highlights the creative partnership that continues to drive the band’s songwriting process. The frontman’s description of pitching the concept to Collen as a “great idea” for a mid-tempo track with an expansive live intro reflects the band’s focus on creating songs that translate powerfully to their live performances. This maintains the energy and spectacle that has defined their career for over four decades.
