Where Does This Door Go

Released in 2013, Where Does This Door Go represents Mayer Hawthorne's major-label evolution. Moving away from his self-produced 'one-man-band' approach, Hawthorne collaborated with a diverse range of high-profile producers including Pharrell Williams, Greg Wells, and Jack Splash. This shift resulted in a significantly more polished, 'hi-fi' sound compared to his earlier work. The album is heavily influenced by the 'Yacht Rock' era and the sophisticated pop-rock of the late 70s, specifically citing Steely Dan as a major touchstone. Lyrically, the album is more narrative and personal, notably on 'Reach Out Richard,' a song about his father. Critically, the album was praised for its production value and Hawthorne's vocal growth, though some purists missed his lo-fi Motown roots. It stands as his most commercially ambitious and sonically diverse project to date.