If you’re familiar with Cuco’s catalog, be sure to throw away any preconceived notion out the window before hearing his latest collaboration with Jean Carter, “My 45.” As the latest single from Ridin’, out May 9 via Interscope Records, Cuco continues to go further into a soulful direction reminiscent of the oldies you’d hear on full blast around LA. He and Carter, who later delivers a tasteful rap verse in the second half, sing their hearts out over lavish production led by a brass section that strikes a perfect balance between the retro and the modern.
“Everybody listens to music when they’re driving. Music is part of your commute, whether you’re in a good or bad mood,” shared Cuco of the song. “You’re ridin’ through the motion of your life where nothing is linear. All of my songs here are romantic, whether that’s in a super-animated way or sad and heartbroken.”
Even with the change of pace and sound, Cuco’s song structure remains intact, keeping him connected to the bedroom pop of wannabewithu that he became known for early on. But what “My 45” and Ridin’, in extension, do is show how this generation of artists continues to develop past any boxed-in category they may have found themselves at the start of their careers. In Cuco’s case, by paying homage to the soul music intrinsic to LA culture, he gets closer to his roots, coming out on the other side an even more dynamic artist.
Catch Cuco in Los Angeles when he performs at the El Rey Theatre on April 16 with The Sinseers. 
Visit Cuco on Instagram and his website to stay updated on new releases and tour dates.
For more new songs we’re loving, check out our Best New Songs of the Month playlist or Best New Music editorials.
Listen to “My 45” the new single from Cuco and Jean Carter below!
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