Durand Bernarr has officially launched a new era of music. The vocal acrobat is back with his new single “Unknown,” produced by Budda Foster. and Sam Hoffman.
It features writing contributions from Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony of Louis York.
Over a bone-deep bassline, accentuated by brassy horns, Bernarr seeks clarity from a love interest to see if they’re in alignment to potentially move forward as an item. Bernarr isn’t pressuring or rushing; he simply wants clear communication of intentions.
He sings in the chorus: “Question, why you so chill? / Sharing yourself in the dark / When I’m here in the light with my heart? Guess you love the thrill / Of staying in the unknown / And I’m here all alone.”
“‘Unknown’ is a blend of both tenderness and frustration,” Bernarr exclusively tells Rated R&B. “Vocally, I wanted to capture the intense feelings that come with an instinctual connection to someone you’re attracted to, yet external factors keep you separated.”
“Unknown” is the first single from Bernarr’s upcoming EP set to release on Create Music Group. The soul-stirring song comes with a performance-style music video, which can be viewed below.
Bernarr’s new EP will follow his 2022 sophomore album, Wanderlust. The album, which featured Devin Tracy, Just Live, and Metta, was inspired by Kelis’ second album, Wanderland.
“To this day, [it] is still one of my favorite albums and played such a major part in my artistry,” shared Bernarr. “This album is a homage to her and the way she paved the way for my eye and my ear. Thank you, Kelis. You’ve always been that girl.”
Bernarr supported his sophomore LP on his headlining Wanderland Tour, which was extended in 2023 as My Bad for Taking So Long: The Wanderlust Tour Continues. The second leg of the tour launched after Bernarr’s viral Tiny Desk performance.
Stream Durand Bernarr’s new song, “Unknown,” and watch the official video below.