We’re starting to learn that you can never really know what to expect from a Marshmello release. The past couple, “Everyday” with Logic, “Fly” with Leah Culver, and “Friends” with Anne-Marie, have all been so vastly different that you could call Marshmello a producer chameleon. It’s a bit unfortunate that his unique sound has become lost in a sea of productions with other artists, but we do still have his rumored “full EDM” EP to look forward to.


In the meantime, he’s released a new rap ballad with Juicy J and James Arthur called “You Can Cry.” Throughout the track, I honestly kept expecting to hear a drop… but it never came. This is not inherently bad, I’m just pointing out how my expectations might have colored my initial interpretation of the song. On my second and third listens, I knew what was in store and was more prepared to analyse it.

End result: Juicy J and James Arthur sound absolutely fantastic. Arthur’s falsetto chorus sent shivers down my spine, and Juicy J’s smooth and reserved style worked perfectly for the verses. Unfortunately, much like with his Migos collaboration, we’re left wondering where the Marshmello sound is.

Don’t get us wrong, we’re not doubting that he produced this. Rather, if you hadn’t told us he did, we wouldn’t have ever been able to tell. It feels like this would have been more appropriately labeled as:

  • Juicy J & James Arthur – You Can Cry (prod. by Marshmello)

At the end of the day though, it’s all about whether you, the listener, likes the track. And you know what, it’s definitely not a bad one. Let us know what you think in the comments.