Kid Cudi's "Grave" Leans Into a Pop Sound

With lead single “Neverland” laying the groundwork for Cudder’s new-ish sound.

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Summary

  • Kid Cudi has dropped “Grave,” the second single lifted from his forthcoming studio album Free
  • Similar to its predecessor, album lead single “Neverland,” the song leans into a more pop/indie sound
  • Samuel Bayer directed the music video

As promised, Kid Cudi has shared the second single from his imminent new project, Free. Dubbed “Grave,” the track continues to carve out the more pop-leaning sound Cudi has been tapping into as of late.

Following up the lead single “Neverland,” “Grave” definitely sounds like it comes from the same universe. Continuing to build on the album’s overarching theme of ultimate freedom, the just-over-three-minute single also comes with a striking music video directed by Samuel Bayer, who has worked with a handful of rock and alternative bands, including The Rolling Stones, Green Day, My Chemical Romance, The Cranberries and The Strokes.

While the tracklist for Free has not yet been unveiled, the project is confirmed to consist of thirteen tracks in total, with “Neverland” falling at two and “Grave” at nine.

Pop is not uncharted territory for Cudi, who has previously leaned into a more indie-inspired sound on Speedin’ Bullet 2 Heaven, among other songs scattered about his highly diverse discography.

Stream “Grave” on Spotify and Apple Music now, and expect Free to drop on Friday, August 22.

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Elaina Bernstein
Elaina Bernstein Editor

Elaina Lauren Bernstein is a New York-based writer and editor, overseeing Hypebeast's music vertical, Hypetrak. She handles both editorial and social coverage for Hypetrak, and served as the Deputy Editor for Summer 2025's Hypetrak Magazine — the first in 10 years. With a particular affinity for underground hip hop, she has racked up a wide range of interviews and cover stories, spanning A$AP Rocky, Larry June, Shaboozey, Leon Thomas, Rihanna, Brent Faiyaz, Jean Dawson, and Miguel, and has covered major music tentpole events including the Grammys and Coachella. The intersection of fashion and music guides her coverage as well.

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