Expansion Records

Luxury Soul 2026: A Landmark Year for Soul Music

Every January, as the festive decorations come down and the winter chill settles in, a specific corner of the music world starts to heat up. For connoisseurs of sophisticated R&B and independent soul, the start of the year belongs to one label: Expansion Records.

On January 16, 2026, the tradition continues with the release of Luxury Soul 2026. This isn’t just another compilation; it is a sprawling, 35-track triple-disc odyssey that serves as the definitive state-of-the-union address for the global soul scene.

In a world where music often feels disposable, Luxury Soul 2026 stands as a monument to craft, melody, and the enduring power of the groove. Here is why this year’s installment is perhaps the most significant in the series' history.

The Track List: Icons Meet the New Guard

What makes the 2026 edition so compelling is its balance. The tracklist reads like a "who’s who" of soul royalty, alongside the stars of tomorrow.

The Legends

Leading the charge is the incomparable Evelyn 'Champagne' King. Her track "A Whole Lotta Yum Yum," featured here in an exclusive Georgie B Remix, is a masterclass in modern boogie. It’s a full-circle moment for Expansion, who first worked with King back in 1995. Joining her is Kathy Sledge (of Sister Sledge), lending her iconic vocals to "This Is A Feeling" by Philadelphia’s Somebody Tell Joe.

Other heritage artists making an impact include Chantay Savage with the hauntingly beautiful "Still," and Steve Nichol (formerly of the legendary UK group Loose Ends), who brings sophisticated production to "Senorita." The inclusion of these names isn't just nostalgia; it’s a testament to their continued relevance and the quality of their contemporary output.

The Rising Stars

Expansion has always had an ear for the "next big thing," and 2026 is no exception. Ashley Scott, the Philadelphia-based artist and nephew of Helen Scott (The Three Degrees), is a standout. His track "Always" opens Disc 1 with a smooth, polished energy that signals his status as one of the brightest lights in modern soul.

UK talent is also well-represented by rising star Harry Linacre, whose track "Ring The Bell" proves that the British soul scene is in very capable hands. From the jazz-infused "Newborn & Good Things" by Shade & The Jazz Destroyers to the contemporary "You" by Ryan La Valette featuring Elle Cato, the album showcases the incredible breadth of the genre.

More Than Just Music: The Soul Community

The release of Luxury Soul 2026 is the starting gun for the 30th Luxury Soul Weekender (January 9–11, 2026). For many fans, the album is the soundtrack to their pilgrimage to Blackpool’s Grand Hotel.

This sense of community is what sets the "Luxury Soul" brand apart. It’s not just about consuming a product; it’s about belonging to a culture. Whether you are a crate-digger who has been collecting 7-inch singles since the 70s or a newcomer discovering the warmth of a real bassline for the first time, this album welcomes you with open arms.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to refresh your playlist for the new year, there is no better investment than this triple pack. It’s rare to find a compilation where every track feels essential, but Expansion Records has a 40-year track record of doing exactly that.

Luxury Soul 2026 is more than a compilation; it’s a celebration of resilience. It celebrates the artists who keep creating against the odds, the label that keeps championing them, and the fans who keep listening.

Soul music isn't just about the past; it’s a living, breathing, evolving force. And as long as the Luxury Soul series continues, the future of the groove is in very safe hands.