Julien Baker and Torres debuted their new duet, “Sugar in the Tank,” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, giving audiences a first look at their country-inspired collaboration on Dec. 11.
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Backed by a full live band, the performance introduced audiences to the twanging, heartfelt track that explores the complexities of love and self-reflection.
The song’s lyrics capture an intimate snapshot of vulnerability, with Baker and Torres trading verses and harmonizing on the chorus: “Sitting outside with the engine running/ Just waiting on me to change/ So c’mon baby, put a little/ Sugar in the tank/ I love you all the way.” The poignant delivery was paired with Baker’s banjo and Torres’ guitar.
The performance marks the latest step in the duo’s ongoing collaboration, which they previewed earlier this year during a Webster Hall performance in New York. The set included unreleased tracks that hinted at the country-inflected direction of their partnership.
On social media, they’ve continued to tease fans, recently sharing a snippet of what appears to be a Western-themed music video, captioning the clip, “Next week… we ride.”
The partnership aligns with several 2025 festival appearances, including stops at Big Ears Festival in Knoxville, High Water Music Festival in Charleston, and the Green River Festival.
This collaboration comes as both artists continue to explore new creative territories. Baker, a celebrated singer, songwriter, and guitarist, is renowned for her work as a solo artist and as a member of the indie supergroup boygenius, alongside Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus.
The group’s Grammy-winning debut album the record in 2023 solidified their place in modern music, with hits like “Not Strong Enough,” “Cool About It,” and “True Blue.” On her own, Baker has gained acclaim for tracks such as “Appointments,” “Faith Healer,” and the hauntingly beautiful “Turn Out the Lights.” Her latest solo release, a cover of Belle and Sebastian’s “Get Me Away From Here, I’m Dying,” continues to showcase her range and introspection.
The duo’s foray into country-tinged storytelling feels like an exciting evolution for both artists, marrying their lyrical prowess with a genre steeped in tradition. As fans eagerly await their next move, one thing is clear: Baker and Torres are proving that their combined talents are as boundless as the open road.
Watch their performance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon here.
