The song brings together guitar from Slash, bass from McKagan, drums from Smith, and vocals from Brendan McCreary, Bear McCreary’s brother. The release is tied to McCreary’s upcoming album The Singularity: Ekleipsis, which continues his larger symphonic metal concept project.
McCreary said the track started with a riff McKagan sent him in a voice memo. That idea led to a studio session with McKagan, Brendan McCreary, and Smith, where the group shaped the song together. Slash later added his guitar parts after returning to town.
Cool Kids follows McCreary’s interest in mixing cinematic composition with heavy rock and metal sounds. His work often brings together orchestral ideas and guest musicians from across the rock world.
The song centers on individuality and being comfortable with who you are, while also serving as a notable collaboration between musicians connected to Guns N’ Roses and Red Hot Chili Peppers.