In a landscape often dominated by raw beats and aggressive lyrical prowess, Larry June and Cardo Got Wings offer a refreshing deviation with their latest music video, “Gotta Be Love.” The track, a new visual chapter from their album Until Night Comes, directed by Sean Kelly, delves into the tender nuances of love and romance.

The video captures Larry June in a series of intimate moments with his muse, set against the mesmerizing backdrop of San Francisco’s scenic skyline. Lines from the track set the tone as Larry croons his affection from the driver’s seat, instigating a narrative wrapped in past regrets and newfound openness. His lyrics reflect, “We should talk more, it was bad timing / I had a girl at the time and I ain’t want the drama,” captivating listeners with a mix of personal reflection and the pursuit of new beginnings.

The journey continues visually as the couple explores the city, shares quiet evenings on balconies, and traverses gently through the dynamic scenery. The video is a cinematic venture into a world where Larry June juxtaposes the immediate allure of materialistic pleasures with the deeper, emotional currents of love.

Larry June’s collaboration with Cardo Got Wings isn’t unexpected, as the duo has crafted several timeless pieces, driving their joint narrative beyond the typical boundaries of genre-specific storytelling. Cardo’s production lays a lush, soothing foundation that allows Larry June’s lyrics to float effortlessly, maintaining an emotional depth that’s all-too-often sacrificed for hits in today’s hip hop scene.

“Gotta Be Love” arguably marks a high point in Larry’s artistic expression, an element that’s been gradually evolving since his early career days. Known for his laid-back yet insightful style, Larry has consistently allowed his personal experiences to weave throughout his discography, bridging the gap between artist and audience.

This release stands out not just for its romantic theme but for its mature take on relationships—a topic that’s not foreign but is handled with a certain finesse in this offering. Larry and Cardo seem to be drawing from a well of emotion and complexity, presenting love not as an ideal but as a process, a journey marked by growth, understanding, and change.

Comparing this collaboration to Larry June’s past works, it evidences growth and a deeper insight into nuanced storytelling. Cardo’s sophisticated beats tailor a dreamy but authentic atmosphere, framing Larry’s narrative perfectly. Their collaborations on tracks like “Organic Free Range Chicken” and “Ya Feel Me” have often been noted for focusing on life narratives and realness, but “Gotta Be Love” emphasizes the oft-neglected element of vulnerability and personal growth.

While many contemporary artists flirt with themes of love and personal relationships, June’s portrayal is refreshingly restrained yet deeply impactful. The visual’s direction and production quality underline a clear intent to blend artistry with relatability. As rap continues to evolve, it’s pieces like “Gotta Be Love” that showcase the genre’s ability not just to entertain but to introspect.

Larry June and Cardo’s consistent collaboration underscores the essence of camaraderie in the industry, where producer-artist relationships foster the kind of creativity and synergy that results in timeless work. Such bonds elevate not only the artists involved but the rich tapestry of hip hop music itself.

Ultimately, “Gotta Be Love” is more than a music video; it’s a slice of life’s complex layers, beautifully unraveled through Larry June’s lens. This piece will undeniably stand as a testament to their artistic vision long after the last note fades away.