Our favorite cousin on our Daddy’s side–Durand Bernarr–is back, and he’s bringing all the energy with his latest EP, Charlie Vettuno Presents…Where in the World is Carmen Randiego?!. Teaming up with rising producer/songwriter duo Charlie Vettuno, the vocalist delivers a dynamic mix of ‘90s Europop and house music influences, Durand’s team shared with I Love Us. Think La Bouche, Haddaway, Robin S.—with a fresh, modern twist.
If you loved his anthem “READY!” or the vibes from his visual EP En Route, you’re in for a treat. This new project is another creative pit stop between his acclaimed sophomore album Wanderlust and his highly anticipated next album, blending Bernarr’s signature vocal acrobatics with a retro dance floor vibe that makes you want to move.
Bernarr and Charlie Vettuno weave personal storytelling into every beat, drawing inspiration from Durand’s life as an only child and the influence of his mother, showcasing just how much Black motherhood shapes the project. After a two-year break from releasing music, Durand found his creative groove again, and this EP is proof that his transparency and self-expression are thriving.
The EP is the result of a musical connection that started on Spotify. After discovering Charlie Vettuno’s track “Slow for Me,” Bernarr reached out, and what began as a potential feature blossomed into a full EP collaboration. Their partnership has given us a collection of songs that are as much about nostalgic beats as they are about personal narratives.
The throwback to ‘90s Europop and house music isn’t just a genre choice—it’s a cultural homage. From M.C. Sar & The Real McCoy’s “Another Night” to Robin S.’s “Show Me Love,” the EP taps into the sounds that raised many of us, creating a space where past and present collide beautifully.
This year has been nothing short of spectacular for Durand Bernarr. His sold-out Wanderlust Tour, viral NPR Tiny Desk performance, and show-stopping appearances at festivals like AFROPUNK and Bonnaroo have made 2024 unforgettable. Not to mention his role as a background vocalist and opener on Erykah Badu’s “Unfollow Me” tour and the rollout of his sold-out Rollin’ With the Homies Skate Experience.
Now, with Where in the World is Carmen Randiego?! out on all streaming platforms, Bernarr is poised to keep us dancing while reflecting on our own stories. As always, Durand stays true to his title: “your favorite singer’s favorite singer.” And with this new release, it’s clear that his star continues to rise.
For those ready to listen to Durand Bernarr’s latest chapter, the EP is available now across all streaming platforms.
This morning, Bernarr went live on Instagram, urging listeners to “sit with it for a week” and then give reviews. Once your week is up, let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Cover photo: Durand Bernarr Drops New EP ‘Where in the World is Carmen Randiego?!’ / Credit: Faith Joyvon
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