777 [Shelved]

During 2016, Derulo began recording music at his home in Los Angeles and previewed a new song called “Swalla”. He subsequently announced the song as his new single on January 2, 2017, noting that it featured rappers Nicki Minaj and Ty Dolla Sign. In May, during an interview at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards, Derulo confirmed that “Swalla” and subsequent singles were part of 21 songs that made up his new album, 777. The album would be released in three parts, each with seven songs being released three months apart. A number of other singles were released in 2017, including “If I’m Lucky” in September and “Tip Toe” (featuring French Montana) in November. Whilst on his 2Sides tour during 2018, Derulo confirmed that the album would no longer be called 777 and was instead named after the tour. Explaining his reason further, Derulo said:

“777 was a stage in my life and it has taken a long time to do this album but this name, 2Sides, is more poignant to where I think I am now in my life and what I think the album exudes – the light and the dark side of who I am – the album exemplifies that in both ways. "People have never seen the urban side of what I do as well so they’ll get to see that side for the first time. It’s an album that has so many different faces so 2Sides was the more appropriate title.”

Upon the album’s announcement, press releases explained the concept of 2Sides and Derulo’s approach with the project. “2SIDES embodies the concept of duality. There’s the side the public sees — the star we know and love — but there’s also a darker side, which is slowly revealed.” The release was also accompanied by a trailer posted on Derulo’s Instagram account.