Porter Robinson Transitions to Pop With Debut Single ‘Cheerleader’

Grammy-winning electronic artist and DJ Porter Robinson is known for electrifying performances at major festivals like Coachella and Second Sky; he even co-wrote the hit song ‘Clarity’ with Zedd. But Robinson is ready to surprise fans with a new sound.

He unveiled the music video for ‘Cheerleader’, the lead single from his upcoming album. This track marks a distinct departure from Robinson’s signature electro-house sound. ‘Cheerleader’ is a full-fledged pop anthem, infused with subtle emo undertones.

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The accompanying music video, directed by Hugh Mulhern with creative direction by Bradley & Pablo (known for their work with Harry Styles, Dua Lipa and Rosalía), promises a visually stunning complement to the song’s emotional core.

When I got back in the studio for ‘Cheerleader’, Robinson explained in a statement, I was asking myself: what kind of music would people instantly connect with, even without any context?  Something raw, universal, and explosive. ‘Cheerleader’ embodies this desire, aiming to capture that feeling of immediate emotional resonance.

Robinson, a North Carolina native, first exploded onto the scene at just 18 years old with his debut album ‘Worlds’. The album topped Billboard’s dance/electronic albums chart, solidifying his position as a rising star.  He further cemented his status by winning Artist of the Year at the MTVU Awards.

Robinson’s most recent album, ‘Nurture’, garnered critical acclaim, being named ‘Album of the Year’ by a magazine. The subsequent ‘Nurture’ tour was hailed as the most successful electronic tour of the year. Robinson’s musical journey began even earlier, however.  He started crafting beats at the tender age of 12, sharing his music online and pioneering a sound he called ‘complextro’, characterised by layering classical melodies into his electronic music productions.

-Sushmita Sarkar