LOS ANGELES: Charlie Puth is officially back. The multi-platinum singer-songwriter released his latest single, “Beat Yourself Up,” on Friday (Jan. 16), offering fans the second taste of his forthcoming fourth studio album, Whatever’s Clever!. The track arrives just weeks before Puth is set to take the stage at Super Bowl LX, marking the start of what promises to be the busiest year of his career.
A Pivot to Self-Compassion Co-produced by Puth and BloodPop, “Beat Yourself Up” trades the viral, sound-effect-heavy production of his 2022 self-titled album for a polished, 80s-inspired groove. The track is described as “brassy” and “bass-heavy,” anchoring an emotional plea for self-forgiveness.
According to Puth, the song’s origins were external before they became internal. “It started as something I wanted to tell a friend,” Puth said in a statement accompanying the release. “We’ve never been the heart-to-heart types, so I wrote it in a song instead. I wanted to tell him that even though he has made mistakes along the way, he shouldn’t be so hard on himself.”
He added that during the writing process, he realized the message was actually for himself. The chorus reflects this vulnerability: “Please don’t beat yourself up for whatever you do / ‘Cause that doesn’t do nothin’ but just break you in two.”
The single is accompanied by a music video directed by Hunter Moreno, which matches the track’s retro-tinged aesthetic.
The ‘Whatever’s Clever!’ Era The release of “Beat Yourself Up” formally sets the countdown for Whatever’s Clever!, which is scheduled to drop on March 27 via Atlantic Records. This follows the album’s lead single, “Changes,” which was released last October.
To support the album, Puth has announced his largest run of shows to date. The Whatever’s Clever! World Tour kicks off on April 22 at the Viejas Arena in San Diego. The 34-date North American leg will hit major venues including the Kia Forum in Los Angeles and Madison Square Garden, before the tour heads to Europe and the UK in the summer.
Super Bowl Spotlight Before the tour begins, Puth has a major appointment in San Francisco. He is confirmed to perform at Super Bowl LX on February 8. While details of his performance remain under wraps, the high-profile slot combined with a new album cycle suggests Puth is aiming for a dominant presence in 2026 pop culture.
“Beat Yourself Up” is available now on all major streaming platforms.
