doPE: Chuck D and John Densmore's Collaborative Album 'No Country For Old Men' Set for Record Store Day Release
Chuck D, the frontman of Public Enemy, has collaborated with a diverse range of artists throughout his lengthy career. His latest project involves an unexpected partnership with legendary Doors drummer John Densmore. Together, they have recorded a song titled “Every Tick Tick Tick,” which has been chosen as the 2026 Record Store Day song of the year. The duo will release their debut album under the name doPE, titled No Country For Old Men, on April 18 via Org Music. This album will combine spoken word, beats, and social commentary to bridge generations and provoke thought.
Chuck D praised John Densmore's rhythmic prowess, describing it as a reflection of cultural history. The collaboration aims to merge past wisdom with contemporary relevance, pushing the boundaries of sound. The upcoming album, specifically created for Record Store Day, will be available on limited-edition oxblood docs transparent high-melt vinyl on April 18. The deluxe gatefold package will feature original illustrations by Chuck D, enhancing the visual appeal of the release.
The inception of doPE traces back to a serendipitous encounter between Chuck D and John Densmore at a Record Store Day panel in 2014. Following Chuck D's role as Record Store Day Ambassador that year, the duo's collaboration began to take shape. Densmore's iconic beats and Chuck D's lyrical prowess culminated in the formation of doPE, symbolized by a unique logo blending elements of the Doors and Public Enemy. The album's theme revolves around the concept of aging, responsibility, and intergenerational connections, encapsulated in the track “Every Tick Tick Tick.”
The production of “Every Tick Tick Tick” involved the collaborative efforts of David “C-Doc” Snyder, John Densmore, and JP Hesser. The song captures the essence of the present moment and the societal context in which we find ourselves. Both Chuck D and John Densmore have strong ties to record stores and Record Store Day, making their collaboration a fitting choice for the 2026 Record Store Day song of the year. The album's title, No Country For Old Men, reflects the project's overarching theme and message.
The tracklist for No Country For Old Men includes a selection of songs that embody the spirit of doPE's collaboration. With Chuck D's insightful lyrics and John Densmore's rhythmic expertise, the album promises to be a compelling exploration of generational connections and social commentary. Stay tuned for the release of this unique musical endeavor on April 18.