featuring @johnmayer
John Mayer is back with new solo music. The singer-songwriter and Dead & Company member released “Tom and Jerry” on Friday, Oct. 23, marking his first solo single in more than five years.
Mayer introduced the reflective track in an Instagram post, revealing that its title came from the name he gave the original voice memo when he first saved the song idea. The accompanying artwork features Mayer handcuffed to an unseen woman, adding a mysterious visual element to the release.
Explaining the song’s origins, Mayer shared a lyric that helped inspire the creative process: “And if you ever come through, which I doubt you’ll do, I’ll run away with you.”
He also praised the talented musicians and collaborators who helped bring the track to life, expressing his excitement about sharing more details about the project. Among the contributors are co-writer and co-producer Blake Slatkin, known for his work with Justin Bieber and Sam Smith; acclaimed Welsh bassist Pino Palladino, whose credits include The Who and Adele; drummer Aaron Sterling, who has worked with Taylor Swift and Harry Styles; percussionist Lenny Castro, known for collaborations with Maroon 5 and The Rolling Stones; and pianist Larry Goldings, who has worked with Sia and James Taylor.
In addition to co-writing and co-producing the song, Mayer contributed acoustic and electric guitar, keyboards, synthesizers and programming, showcasing his involvement across multiple aspects of the recording.
“Tom and Jerry” is Mayer’s first solo release since his 2021 album Sob Rock, which debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. The album also marked the end of his time with Columbia Records.
The new single launches Mayer’s latest chapter under a deal with Mercury Records, released through his own Sob Rock Records imprint. With “Tom and Jerry,” Mayer returns to the solo spotlight, offering fans a first glimpse of his next musical era.
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