Charlie Puth Returns With Whatever’s Clever!
Multi-platinum hitmaker Charlie Puth enters a bold new era with the release of his fourth studio album, Whatever’s Clever!, now out via Atlantic Records. Alongside the album drop, the singer songwriter gears up for his Whatever’s Clever! World Tour, kicking off April 22 and spanning North America, Europe, and the U.K.
Packed with high-profile collaborations, the album features Coco Jones, Hikaru Utada, Jeff Goldblum, Kenny G, Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, and Ravyn Lenae each adding a distinct texture to Puth’s most personal project yet.
A Candid, Self-Reflective Record
Whatever’s Clever! marks a shift for Puth, who leans into vulnerability and self-exploration. Known for his polished pop sound, he now embraces imperfection, creating a record that feels more human and emotionally grounded.
“I had to take a closer look at myself to make this record,” Puth shares. “Audiences knew my music more than they knew me. This is the chance.”
Drawing inspiration from legends like Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, and Philip Bailey, the album delivers a rich, warm sound shaped by analog textures and experimental techniques. Working with co-producer BloodPop, Puth explores new sonic territory, prioritizing authenticity over perfection.
“Sideways” Takes Center Stage
Leading the album is “Sideways,” a smooth, ‘90s-inspired R&B track featuring Coco Jones. Recently, the pair also performed the song on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where Puth appeared as both a guest and a performer.
Jones praised the collaboration, calling Puth “an incredible artist constantly refining his craft,” while Puth credited her for elevating the song’s emotional and cinematic quality.
A Star-Studded, Genre-Spanning Album
The album’s tracklist reflects both its emotional depth and collaborative range. From introspective ballads to groove-heavy anthems, each song reveals a different layer of Charlie Puth’s artistry.
Standout tracks include:
- “Sideways” featuring Coco Jones
- “Love in Exile” with Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins
- “Home” featuring Hikaru Utada
- “Cry” featuring Kenny G
- “Until It Happens to You,” featuring Jeff Goldblum
The album also includes tracks like “Changes,” “Beat Yourself Up,” “Washed Up,” “New Jersey” featuring Ravyn Lenae, “Don’t Meet Your Heroes,” “Hey Brother,” and “I Used to Be Cringe” each contributing to a cohesive yet emotionally varied listening experience.
From the Studio to the Global Stage
Following the album’s release, Puth is set to embark on a major world tour beginning in San Diego. The North American leg includes stops at iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden in New York, before continuing across Europe and the U.K. through the summer.
Earlier this year, Puth also delivered a widely praised performance at the Super Bowl LX, further showcasing his range as a live performer.
A Defining Moment in His Career
With over 35 billion streams and multiple chart-topping hits, Charlie Puth has long been one of pop’s most consistent hitmakers. Yet Whatever’s Clever! signals something deeper, a return to self and a commitment to honesty in both sound and storytelling. More importantly, it reflects an artist who is no longer afraid to strip things back and confront his own narrative. In turn, this shift allows the music to feel more intentional, more grounded, and undeniably more human. At the same time, there is a quiet confidence that runs through each truck, suggesting growth not just in craft, but in perspective. As a result, the album becomes less about chasing hits and more about creating something that genuinely resonates.
“These are real songs,” Puth reflects. “They’re about my family, my past, and the people who shaped me. This is finally me.”
As he prepares to bring this new era to audiences worldwide, Whatever’s Clever! stands as a defining release, one that captures an artist at his most open, experimental, and human.
