Julien Baker and Torres showcased their enchanting new duet, “Sugar in the Tank,” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on December 11, providing fans with an exciting first glimpse of their latest musical collaboration. This performance not only highlights their unique blend of styles but also sets the stage for what fans can expect from this dynamic partnership moving forward.

Accompanied by a talented live band, the performance unveiled a captivating country-style track that delves into the intricate layers of love and self-reflection. This musical presentation not only showcases the artists’ vocal talents but also highlights their ability to weave personal narratives into their songs, creating a relatable experience for listeners. The synergy between Baker and Torres during their performance adds depth to the track, making it a memorable experience for all who tuned in.

The lyrics of the song paint an intimate portrait of vulnerability, as Baker and Torres seamlessly trade verses and harmonize beautifully on the memorable 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.” Their poignant delivery is enhanced by Baker’s masterful banjo twangs and Torres’ exceptional guitar skills. This blend of instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics resonates deeply with the audience, making it a standout performance.

This mesmerizing performance signifies another milestone in the duo’s continuing collaboration, which they initially hinted at earlier this year during a live performance at Webster Hall in New York City. Their set included unreleased tracks that suggested an exciting country-inflected direction for their partnership. As they explore new musical avenues together, fans are eager to see how their collaboration evolves and what surprises lie ahead.

On social media, both artists have kept their followers buzzing with excitement, recently unveiling a tantalizing snippet of what appears to be a Western-themed music video. The clip, accompanied by the caption, “Next week… we ride,” has left fans eagerly anticipating what is to come and has amplified the excitement surrounding their upcoming projects. This playful tease indicates that their creative journey is just beginning.

The partnership between Baker and Torres aligns with several highly anticipated festival appearances in 2025, including performances at the Big Ears Festival in Knoxville, the High Water Music Festival in Charleston, and the Green River Festival. These opportunities not only showcase their growing popularity but also allow them to share their artistry with larger audiences, thereby solidifying their presence in the music industry.

This collaboration signifies a pivotal moment as both artists venture into uncharted creative territories. Baker, renowned for her evocative songwriting and guitar skills, has made a name for herself both as a solo artist and as part of the indie supergroup boygenius, alongside fellow musicians Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus. This partnership allows her to explore new soundscapes and collaborate with other talented artists, enriching her musical journey.

Boygenius, known for their Grammy-winning debut album the record, which peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 in 2023, features notable tracks such as “Not Strong Enough,” “Cool About It,” and “True Blue.” In her solo work, Baker has garnered critical acclaim for songs like “Appointments” and “Turn Out the Lights.” Recently, she released a cover of Belle and Sebastian’s “Get Me Away From Here, I’m Dying,” which showcased her versatility and included contributions from multi-instrumentalist Calvin Lauber, Northern Irish folk artist Soak, and Alaskan singer-songwriter Quinn Christopherson.

Boygenius announced plans to take a hiatus during a February 1 show, with Lucy Dacus later reassuring fans in a Vanity Fair interview, stating, “Everyone can be rest assured that we still love each other.” This announcement has sparked discussions among fans about the future of the group, as they continue to appreciate the individual journeys of each member.

“I think we all want a little break,” Baker expressed, adding, “I can’t function if I do anything in 2024 that is public.” This candid reflection highlights the need for artists to recharge and explore their creativity outside of the public eye, ensuring they return with fresh perspectives and new music.

Watch the stunning performance of Julien Baker and Torres on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon here.