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Photo:  Ashley J Bourne

2019 seems to be the year that R&B is making a stark revival. We were graced with revitalizing albums from some of the top names in the genre, such as Beyonce, Solange, Summer Walker, Snoh Aalegra, James Blake, Jamila Woods, and so many others. Amongst the mix of astounding artists partaking in this R&B renaissance is London-raised singer-songwriter Collard. The well-versed musician is equipped with the vocal dynamism of James Brown, the salacious, innovative allure of Prince, and the unique musical dexterity to be this generation’s next Steve Lacy. Don’t believe us? Just take a listen.

Collard's latest track,  "Stone," is a guitar-heavy affair, featuring the genre-melting Bakar. The song is an emotional concoction of wistful funk and a deeply-penetrating soul that sends you into an almost meditative state. Just earlier this year, Collard dropped his impassioned debut album Unholy, which  emphasized a willingness to succumb to vulnerability, as well as his widespread range as a musician.  

At the young age of 17, Collard made his debut into the London music scene as a rapper, a pivotal member of the collective Last Night in Paris - a group known as London’s Odd Future. Since then, Collard has further developed himself as a multidimensional musician, paying homage to many layers of musical legends across genres, such as Michael Jackson, Janis Joplin, and Led Zeppelin, many of which you can hear in just about every track he’s released.

“Stone” is a beautiful showcasing of earthy, minimalistic production that is paired with a compelling amount of vocal control and sentimentality. Backed by Bakar’s magnetic intonation, the song is certainly the perfect hip-hop and R&B addition to your fall playlists.

Listen to  "Stone" below: