Charlie Puth collaborating with Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins on “yacht rock” project in 2026
Charlie Puth, known for his hit songs, recently collaborated with Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins, two iconic figures in the yacht rock genre, on a new song titled “Love In Exile.” Puth’s desire to create a yacht rock-inspired track led him to enlist the help of the genre’s pioneers, McDonald and Loggins, who are best known for their work on classic songs like “What a Fool Believes.”
Puth shared his experience working with McDonald and Loggins, recounting how the collaboration came to be. He highlighted the importance of including the original creators of the genre in his project, emphasizing the significance of their contributions to yacht rock music. The collaboration was facilitated through mutual connections and Puth’s personal outreach to McDonald and Loggins, who had previously collaborated on a song with Thundercat in 2017.
The trio met in the studio to begin working on the song, with Loggins suggesting the title, “Love in Exile,” even before they had started writing any lyrics. Puth recalled Loggins’ unconventional approach to songwriting, mentioning that the process involved figuring things out as they went along. Despite the initial challenges, Puth and his collaborators were eager to explore new musical territories and push the boundaries of yacht rock music.
Reflecting on the creative process, Puth mentioned a pivotal moment when Loggins proposed a unique approach to developing the song. This unexpected twist inspired Puth to rethink his creative process and embrace the spontaneity of the collaboration. The experience of working with seasoned professionals like McDonald and Loggins allowed Puth to expand his musical horizons and explore innovative ways of blending their unique styles with his own.
As the project evolved, Puth found himself immersed in a creative whirlwind, navigating the intricate dynamics of collaborating with two legendary artists. Despite the initial uncertainty, Puth remained committed to creating a song that paid homage to the yacht rock era while infusing it with a modern twist. The collaborative effort culminated in the creation of “Love In Exile,” a testament to the timeless appeal of yacht rock music and the enduring influence of its pioneers.
Overall, Puth’s collaboration with McDonald and Loggins serves as a tribute to the golden age of yacht rock, blending nostalgia with a contemporary flair. Through their combined efforts, the trio has created a musical masterpiece that not only honors the genre’s roots but also propels it into the future. The success of “Love In Exile” highlights the enduring popularity of yacht rock music and the ongoing impact of its visionary creators on the music industry.