Dream Team: Grentperez and UMI Drop Ethereal New Single “Close to You”

Filipino-Australian breakout star grentperez has teamed up with singer-songwriter UMI for an ethereal new collaborative single titled “close to you,” officially released on October 9, 2026. The dreamy track brings together the best of both artists’ signature styles, and eager fans can stream the fresh release right now on major music platforms.

More than just a simple love song, “close to you” treats romance as a surrounding energy that shifts how we experience life. The collaboration mirrors grentperez’s deepening self-awareness as he explores what truly shapes his decisions and relationships, pinning love down as the ultimate driving force behind his emotions.

This shared depth made grentperez’s introduction to UMI feel like fate, given her well-known focus on spirituality and self-reflection. As a long-time admirer of her work, grentperez finally crossed paths with UMI when they shared the lineup at a college concert earlier this year. After finding the courage to introduce himself and propose a collaboration, the duo hit the studio just a month later. Alongside producer MarcLo, they successfully brought the vision for “close to you” to life.

The collaboration brilliantly captures the complexities of long-distance romance, uniting two highly self-aware artists who are deeply attuned to their feelings. Their creative synergy extended far beyond the song’s themes; grentperez revealed that tracking the song in the studio was an unexpectedly joyful experience that came together with absolute ease.

Reflecting on their initial studio session together, grentperez had nothing but praise for his co-star. He noted how easily they connected, allowing him to be completely authentic during the creative process. When asked about his first experience working with UMI, grentperez shared, “Fantastic, we honestly clicked which was great. Knowing that Umi is a pretty spiritual and free person, I felt comfy letting loose, cracking dumbass jokes and contemplating life. Contemplating life is always welcome with me”.

Ultimately, “close to you” achieves much more than just a pairing of two unique musical styles. The track serves as a profound reflection on how love and our surroundings actively mold our emotional landscapes. By joining forces, grentperez and UMI ultimately encourage listeners to look outward, acknowledging and respecting a larger, interconnected universe that binds us all together.

Listen to “close to you (feat. UMI)” here