Charlie Puth has officially unveiled his highly anticipated fourth studio album, Whatever’s Clever!, via Atlantic Records, just weeks before launching his WHATEVER’S CLEVER! WORLD TOUR. The multi-award-winning singer-songwriter says this record marks a bold new chapter—one where he digs deeper than ever before.
“I had to take a closer look at myself to make this record and sing about things I normally wouldn’t sing about,” Puth shares. “Audiences knew my music more than they knew me because I never really gave them a chance to know me. This is the chance.”
Drawing inspiration from legends like Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, and Philip Bailey, Puth crafted the album in his home studio, experimenting with classic sounds and working closely with acclaimed co-producer BloodPop®. “BloodPop® pushed me to use sonics I hadn’t touched before, to sing about subjects I’d never sung about, and write songs that might’ve made me uncomfortable in the past,” Puth admits.
Whatever’s Clever! features a rich, vintage sound and raw, authentic songwriting. The album’s latest single, “Sideways,” is a ’90s-inspired R&B love song featuring close friend and collaborator Coco Jones. The pair debuted the track live during Puth’s Blue Note LA shows and brought their chemistry to the stage on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Coco Jones shared her excitement, calling Puth “an incredible artist, constantly refining his craft,” and expressed her joy in finally sharing the song with the world.
Other highlights include the yacht rock gem “Love In Exile” with Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins, and “Until It Happens To You,” which features a heartfelt spoken word monologue from Jeff Goldblum. On the emotional track “Hey Brother,” Puth opens up about his relationship with his younger brother Stephen, delivering a message of encouragement and love.
Reflecting on the album, Puth says, “I’m back to who I always was. These are real songs. They’re about my brother, my dad, my wife, and people who aren’t in my life anymore that I thought I needed. This is finally me.”
Puth’s WHATEVER’S CLEVER! WORLD TOUR kicks off April 22 in San Diego, followed by dates across Europe in June and July. For more information and tickets, visit charlieputh.com.
Charlie Puth continues to make headlines after his soulful performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Super Bowl LX, where he was joined by an orchestra and Kenny G, earning worldwide acclaim.
Whatever’s Clever! is available now on all streaming platforms.