Demi Lovato is leaving behind the weight of personal documentaries and heavy subject matter with her next project. The pop star announced her ninth studio album, It’s Not That Deep, set for release on October 24, describing it as a record built for the dancefloor rather than the therapist’s couch.

For much of her career, Lovato’s music has been paired with film projects that traced her struggles with addiction, mental health, and recovery. From multi-part series to streaming specials, each era of her work was often framed as a chapter in an ongoing narrative of pain and perseverance. In teasing this new release, Lovato even poked fun at that history. On social media, she posted, “Getting deeper and more personal than ever. My fifth documentary is here… watch the exclusive trailer now.” The link, however, redirected fans to an announcement page for It’s Not That Deep rather than another confessional film.

In a statement, Lovato explained the shift in perspective that fueled the album. “With my past eras, I often wrote cathartic music about heavy topics that I needed to process,” she said. “When I got back in the studio this time around, those songs just weren’t resonating anymore because I’m not in that place in life. I’m happy, I’m in love, and I just want to enjoy life and have fun. I realized it’s not that deep anymore, and that became the ethos for this album.”

The singer described the project as music designed for “late nights and dancefloors,” a deliberate move away from her past work that was anchored in emotional excavation. The title itself signals a refusal to be weighed down by the expectations of depth or trauma-driven storytelling.

It’s Not That Deep was crafted alongside executive producer Zhone, whose recent work in pop and electronic music has made him a rising name in the industry. In comments to Rolling Stone, Zhone praised Lovato’s openness in the studio. “It’s been so inspiring working with Demi and experiencing her journey of continued leveling up. She is such a master in the studio. This album is about letting inhibitions go, and we had so much fun making this music. It really comes across throughout.”

The duo’s partnership shaped a record that leans into dance-pop sensibilities, marking a departure from the aggressive guitars and punk-leaning sound of Lovato’s last two releases.

Lovato’s most recent projects highlighted her versatility. 2022’s Holy Fvck was a loud, guitar-driven return to her rock roots, while 2023’s Revamped reimagined her biggest hits through a punk lens. While those projects emphasized raw energy and angst, her new album signals a pivot toward joy and release. “I had such an incredible time making this album with Zhone,” Lovato said. “It was such a freeing experience to let loose and have fun with it.”

Fans have already gotten a taste of the record through the singles “Fast” and “Here All Night,” both of which showcase a sleek, club-ready sound. With an 11-track lineup, the album seems positioned to provide a soundtrack for movement rather than introspection. “So proud of all the work I’ve done,” Lovato wrote on Instagram. “And now, it’s time to celebrate and have some fun!!!”

A Celebration of the Present

More than just a new album cycle, It’s Not That Deep represents a shift in Lovato’s outlook. At 32, the artist is emphasizing happiness, love, and fun over the catharsis of reliving pain.