Acclaimed New York singer-songwriter Jesse Malin returns with a brand new double-sided single, pairing the original track “Hollywood Forever” with a bold reinterpretation of Rudie Can’t Fail, the beloved classic by The Clash. The release is available now for pre-save, with both tracks showcasing Malin’s deep roots in rock ‘n’ roll tradition while continuing to push his songwriting forward.
The A-side, “Hollywood Forever,” is a cinematic and reflective new original that finds Malin in top form—blending heart-on-sleeve storytelling with his signature mix of grit and melody. Anchored by vivid imagery and emotional weight, the track is delivered through Malin’s unmistakable voice and timeless songwriting style.
Malin says, “‘Hollywood Forever’ is a tribute to my dear friend, Howie Pyro, who passed away in 2022. His wish was to be buried in the legendary Hollywood Forever Cemetery. I’ve been thinking about him a lot lately and it means a lot to me to be able to tell you about him every night in my play ‘Silver Manhattan’ – its our story and it’s our song. Thank you to Tad Kubler from The Hold Steady and Jimmy G from Murphy’s Law for joining me, Derek, Rob, Paul and James on this one.”
On the flip side, Malin takes on the Clash’s “Rudie Can’t Fail,” putting his own spin on one of punk’s most enduring anthems. Known for his ability to bridge classic influences with a modern edge, Malin injects new life into the track while honoring the spirit and urgency that made the original a standout in The Clash’s catalog.
With “Hollywood Forever” b/w “Rudie Can’t Fail,” Jesse Malin once again proves his versatility—effortlessly moving between original material and reinterpretation, while maintaining a voice that feels both authentic and enduring. The single serves as a reminder of Malin’s place as one of contemporary rock’s most respected storytellers, continuing to evolve while staying firmly connected to the lineage that shaped him.
New York, NY — Acclaimed singer-songwriter Jesse Malin remains a vital force in American music in 2026, continuing a decades-long career defined by resilience, reinvention, and deep roots in New York City’s cultural landscape.
Emerging from the city’s late-1970s punk and hardcore scenes, Malin first gained recognition as a teenage frontman before achieving wider success with glam-punk band D Generation. He launched his solo career with the critically celebrated The Fine Art of Self Destruction (2002), establishing a signature style that blends raw rock energy with introspective songwriting. Over the years, he has built a devoted international following and collaborated with artists including Bruce Springsteen, Lucinda Williams, Elvis Costello, and Billie Joe Armstrong.
In 2023, Malin experienced a life-altering spinal stroke that resulted in partial paralysis. Since then, he has undergone intensive rehabilitation and continues to face ongoing physical challenges. Despite this, his determination has fueled an extraordinary return to creative life.
Recent projects highlight this ongoing resurgence. The 2024 tribute album Silver Patron Saints: The Songs of Jesse Malin brought together an all-star lineup to celebrate his songwriting while supporting his recovery. He has since returned to the stage for select live performances and benefit appearances in New York and beyond.
Continuing his creative momentum, Malin has released a new digital single, Hollywood Forever, a heartfelt tribute to his late bandmate Howie Pyro. The release also features his rendition of Rudie Can’t Fail, originally performed by The Clash. The single is available now via Wicked Cool Records.
Malin’s story has also expanded into new creative formats. His autobiographical concert-theater production Silver Manhattan—developed and staged in New York—offers an intimate reflection on his journey from Queens punk beginnings to his present-day recovery. In 2026, he further shares his story with the release of his memoir, Almost Grown: A New York Memoir, a candid and deeply personal account of his life in music.
Today, Jesse Malin stands as both a pioneering figure of New York rock and a symbol of perseverance. His ongoing work continues to inspire audiences worldwide, underscoring a career built not only on music, but on community, storytelling, and an unwavering commitment to artistic expression.