Charlie Puth released his fourth studio album, Whatever’s Clever!, through Atlantic Records, introducing the new single “Sideways” featuring Coco Jones. The track, a ’90s-inspired R&B love song, debuted live on ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live!, marking the first televised performance of the collaboration.
“Sideways” reflects a more personal side of Puth, who said the album allowed him to explore themes he had not previously sung about. “Audiences knew my music more than they knew me because I never really gave them a chance to know me. This is the chance,” he said. Produced alongside BloodPop®, the album embraces warm, rich production, blending influences from Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, and Philip Bailey, with Puth experimenting on instruments like the Yamaha CP70 in his home studio.
Jones, a close collaborator and longtime friend, said the track was a joy to record. “We had so much fun bringing ‘Sideways’ to life,” she said. “I’m so excited the world can finally hear it.” Puth described the song as cinematic, adding that Jones elevated the track with her vocals.
Whatever’s Clever! features other high-profile collaborations, including Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins on the yacht-rock-inspired “Love In Exile” and a spoken-word segment from Jeff Goldblum on “Until It Happens to You.” The album explores themes of personal growth, family, and relationships, with Puth reflecting on his brother, father, wife, and past experiences.
Puth, a Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum singer-songwriter and producer, has amassed over 35 billion career streams and nine multi-platinum singles, including “Attention,” “We Don’t Talk Anymore,” and “See You Again.” He is preparing to launch the Whatever’s Clever! World Tour April 22 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, with North American dates followed by European and U.K. shows in June and July.
Puth recently performed the national anthem at Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, accompanied by Kenny G and an orchestra, earning worldwide praise.
The album and its lead single signal a new, introspective chapter for Puth, blending emotional vulnerability with his signature pop sensibilities.
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