Cuco releases “Phases,” the latest single from his upcoming album Ridin’, arriving May 9th via Interscope Records. The song’s lyrics depict the ending of a romantic relationship as Cuco opens the song singing about a “tenant in my heart” confronting a love that has turned sour.

 

 

“With ‘Phases,’ there wasn’t a single direct inspiration—it was more about capturing an energy shift,” Cuco explains. “We wanted to pick up the pace and create something more danceable that naturally makes you move. It’s one of those songs that just came together in the moment.” The new song follows previous single “My 45” featuring Jean Carter, which honors the classic soul sounds that have influenced Cuco’s musical journey.

Cuco’s forthcoming album Ridin’ navigates themes of heartbreak, joy, and personal history while embracing moments of sweet romance resulting in Cuco’s most ambitious and emotionally resonant work to date. The presence of Chicano car culture is another consistent theme throughout the record and is embedded in the flow of the album. Cuco shares, “Everyone listens to music while driving—it’s integral to your commute regardless of mood. You’re moving through life’s non-linear journey.”

Ridin’ features production from Tom Brenneck (Bruno Mars, Amy Winehouse). Brenneck, known for his guitar work with Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Menahan Street Band, and contributions to Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black, brings his vintage-meets-contemporary approach to the production. Together, Cuco and Brenneck craft an organic sound, with Cuco elevating his dreamy vocals an octave higher for a rich neo-falsetto.

Cuco will also be performing a sold out hometown show at the El Rey on April 16th ahead of the album’s release where he will be playing the full album start to finish. Listen to “Phases” above, find album details below, and stay tuned for more from Cuco coming soon.