The new track comes out ahead of .Paak's forthcoming album Ventura, which will be released on April 12 via Aftermath and 12 Tone.
At first glance it seems like an unlikely collaboration. Anderson .Paak and Smokey Robinson are worlds apart in many ways. But, on closer inspection, it starts to feel more natural: both are artists who have pioneered at the front of popular music via their knack for sunny, catchy and sometimes sentimental songs. There are also similarities in style, with both singing in an upper register, slightly raspy tone.
The new track and video for “Make It Better” is a half-hearted ode to what feels like a doomed relationship. It’s composed of moments of joy, denial and pathos. Watch below:
