Julien Baker and Torres debut duet “Sugar in the Tank” on ‘Fallon’

Julien Baker and Torres debut their new duet “Sugar in the Tank,” The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallongiving audiences their first look at their country-inspired collaboration on December 11th.

Accompanied by a live orchestra, this performance introduces audiences to this soulful piece that explores the complexities of love and self-reflection.

The song’s lyrics capture a snapshot of vulnerable intimacy, with Baker and Torres trading verses and harmonizing on the chorus: “Sitting outside with the engine running/Just waiting for me to change/So come on baby, put a little/Sugar in the tank/I’ve always loved you.” The poignant playing is 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 performance at New York’s Webster Hall. The album included unreleased tracks that hinted at the country-inflected direction of their partnership.

They’ve continued to tease fans on social media, recently sharing a clip from what appears to be a Western-themed music video, captioning the clip: “Next week… we ride.”

The partnership coincides with multiple festival appearances in 2025, including Knoxville’s Big Ears Festival, Charleston’s High Water Music Festival and Green River Festival.

The collaboration comes as both artists continue to explore new creative territories. Baker is a singer, songwriter and guitarist known for her work as a solo artist and as a member of the indie supergroup boygenius alongside Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus famous.

The band’s Grammy Award-winning debut album Record 2023 cemented their place in modern music with hits like “Not Strong Enough,” “Cool About It” and “True Blue.” Baker has won acclaim for his songs such as “Appointments,” “Faith Healer” and the hauntingly beautiful “Turn Out the Lights.” Her latest solo album continues to showcase her range and introspection with a cover of Belle and Sebastian’s “Get Me Out of Here, I’m Dying.”

The duo’s foray into country-tinged storytelling feels like an exciting evolution for both artists, combining their lyrical abilities with the genre’s legacy. As fans eagerly await their next step, one thing is clear: Baker and Torres are proving that their combined talents are as limitless as the open road.

watch their performance The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon here.