IN CONVERSATION WITH CHEAT CODES
Interview by Samo Šajn
Cheat Codes are a multi-platinum dance-pop trio with over 6 billion streams, known for their genre-blending hits and iconic collaborations. Their new single “Human” ft. LP kicks off the celebration of their 10th anniversary album Future Renaissance, filled with feel-good and emotional songs for their fans around the world.
Your new single “Human” with LP feels really powerful. What’s the story behind the song?
Yes, “Human” came from a really raw place. We’ve all been through phases where you’re just trying to keep it together, mentally, emotionally, whatever and this song kind of puts that feeling into words. It’s about owning your flaws, not pretending to be perfect. We wanted it to be emotional but still hit on a dance level.
How did the collaboration with LP happen, and what was it like working with them?
We’ve been fans of LP for a long time, that voice is just unreal. We sent over the idea, not even sure if they’d be into it, and they came back with something that blew us away. Total pro, super down to earth, and just got it instantly. It all came together crazy fast too.
“Human” is coming out during Pride Month. Why was that timing important to you?
It felt like the right moment. “Human” is about being unapologetically yourself, and that message lines up perfectly with what Pride is all about. We’ve always been big on creating space where people feel free to be who they are, no judgment, just love and music.
Your new album Future Renaissance celebrates 10 years of Cheat Codes. What does that milestone mean to you?
Man, 10 years... wild. It kind of snuck up on us. We started this just making music in bedrooms, and now we’re touring the world, working with legends. Future Renaissance is us looking back but also looking forward, pushing boundaries while staying true to who we are. It’s a celebration but also a reset.
You’ve tried different styles over the years. What made you want to go back to your dance-pop sound for this album?
We’ve always been about evolution, trying new stuff, but this one felt like coming home. Dance-pop is where it all started for us. It just felt right to tap back into that energy. We wanted to make something that felt nostalgic but still fresh as hell.
You’ve worked with so many amazing artists like Dolly Parton, Demi Lovato, Kenny G, and now LP. How do you choose who to work with?
Honestly, it’s just about vibe. We don’t care about genres or what’s trending, if we love someone’s voice or energy, we’re down. Sometimes it’s random, sometimes it’s planned, but it’s always got to feel natural. The weirder the combo, the better sometimes. Like, Kenny G? That was wild.
You’re touring all over the world right now. What’s it like performing these new songs live?
It’s been insane. There's nothing like testing out new songs in real time and seeing people react. “Human” has been getting this emotional response that hits different, and the more upbeat tracks off the album just go off. We’re having more fun on stage than ever.
Looking back over the past 10 years, is there one moment that really stands out for you as a band?
There’s a lot but opening for The Chainsmokers at the Rose Bowl was pretty surreal. That was one of those “how did we get here?” moments. Also, working with Dolly, can’t really top that. She recorded her vocals in like one take, and it was perfect. Legendary.
With “Human” out now and the album coming soon, what do you hope fans feel when they listen to this new music?
We just want people to feel something. Whether it’s joy, heartbreak, freedom, whatever they're going through, we hope the music meets them there. This album is for the old fans, the new ones, and the ones who’ve grown with us. Dance, cry, scream, just feel it.
