Steve Gleason Released Musical Project Titled REBIRTH

The former New Orleans Saints player launched a 12-song episodic project inspired by his experiences with ALS.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in R&B

A vintage studio microphone on a boom arm in a wood-paneled room, reflecting the intimate atmosphere of a music recording project. — Former New Orleans Saints player Steve Gleason has released 'REBIRTH,' a 12-song episodic musical project recorded in Louisiana and Idaho. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Steve Gleason has released REBIRTH, a 12-song music project recorded at Esplanade Studios. The project, which launched with its first two tracks on October 1, 2026, explores the human experience through music.

Why it matters

Gleason created this project to express parts of his identity that remain untouched by ALS. The music reflects his personal perspective on navigating a future that has fundamentally changed.

The REBIRTH project consists of 12 total songs developed over six months of collaborative sessions. The initial rollout began with the release of the tracks Soul Is Invincible and Sonic Boom.

The players

Steve Gleason

He is a former New Orleans Saints player who became a prominent advocate for ALS research and awareness.

Ineffable Joy Records

This is the independent record label responsible for the distribution and release of the REBIRTH musical project.

The details

Co-written during intensive sessions in Slidell, Louisiana, and North Idaho, the project is distributed via Ineffable Joy Records. The creative effort serves as a new chapter for Gleason, who was diagnosed with ALS at age 33.

September 25, 2006: Gleason blocked an Atlanta Falcons punt at the Superdome.
2011: Gleason received his ALS diagnosis.
October 2025: Gleason began the songwriting process for REBIRTH.
October 1, 2026: REBIRTH project launched with first two tracks.
October 5, 2026: Second line procession and live REBIRTH concert.

Industry Dynamics

This project follows the 2016 release of the documentary Gleason and the 2024 memoir A Life Impossible. It represents a shift into music for an artist whose previous work documented his public life and health journey.

Listeners can access the episodic releases of the 12-song project starting with the debut tracks. Fans in the New Orleans area can attend the upcoming second line procession from Lafayette Square to Champions Square.

The takeaway

Gleason continues to use his platform to explore new creative mediums following his long-term ALS diagnosis. The rollout highlights how artistic expression can serve as a conduit for personal reflection and public connection.

What happens next

The New Orleans Saints will host a commemorative concert and second line procession on October 5, 2026, which will feature a performance from the project and a coin toss ceremony.