Erykah Badu. Kaytranada. Anderson .Paak. The Internet. Teedra Moses. They all have one thing in common—they’ve been blessed by the vocal brilliance and singular artistry of Durand Bernarr.
The GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, and creative force is redefining the landscape of progressive R&B. His presence in music is a masterclass in vocal dexterity, stage command, and fearless individuality. With a style that seamlessly fuses funk, soul, and avant-garde artistry, Durand has cemented himself as an artist without boundaries.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Durand was immersed in music from a young age. Raised in a household where music was both a passion and a profession, his father, an audio engineer, and his mother, a vocal coach, exposed him to a wide range of sounds and techniques. By the age of 16, Durand’s innate talent had already led him to work as a production assistant for Earth, Wind & Fire, a formative experience that laid the foundation for his future career. His upbringing fostered a deep understanding of both the technical and emotional power of music, leading to a career that blends rich harmonies with innovative soundscapes.
Durand first made waves in the early 2010s, gaining a cult following through his viral covers, which showcased his soaring range and unparalleled interpretative skills. His breakout moment arrived in 2016 with the release of Sound Check, a project that established his signature sound. Then came DUR& (2020), a critically acclaimed album featuring collaborations with Ari Lennox, Anna Wise, and Kaytranada, which solidified him as a creative powerhouse in the independent R&B space.
Durand’s artistry has continued to evolve, with the release of Wanderlust and the GRAMMY-nominated En Route, which earned a nomination for Best Progressive R&B Album at the 67th Annual GRAMMY Awards. He also garnered a Grammy participation certificate for his feature on Kaytranada’s “Weird” from Timeless, which contributed to the album’s nomination for Best Dance/Electronic Album. His ability to cross genres and bring his distinct sound to various musical worlds has made him a force in modern R&B and electronic music.
In 2023, Durand partnered with rising producer and songwriter duo Charlie Vettuno to release Charlie Vettuno Presents…Where in the World is Carmen Randiego?!, an EP that marks the second creative pit stop between his sophomore album Wanderlust and the highly anticipated BLOOM. This collaboration highlights his continuous exploration of new sounds and collaborations, further pushing the boundaries of his musical identity.
Durand’s live performances are nothing short of legendary. Whether gracing the stages of Afropunk, Bonnaroo, Essence Festival, or headlining his own Wanderlust Tour and Step Into My Office Tour, he brings a level of showmanship rarely seen in today’s industry. His electrifying Tiny Desk Concert in 2023 became an instant viral moment, while his work behind the scenes—co-directing and singing background vocals for Teedra Moses’s Tiny Desk performance—further displayed his multifaceted artistry.
Now, with his highly anticipated third studio album BLOOM on the horizon, Durand is stepping into his most personal and intentional era yet. BLOOM is a heartfelt tribute to the love that exists beyond romance—the love found in friendship, self-discovery, and the communities that help us grow. “Through a fusion of music and personal reflection, I am honoring the bonds that have shaped my journey, the tribe that continuously pours into me, and the freedom to nurture spaces where love flourishes.” The album’s lead single, Impact, offers a glimpse into the emotional depth and sonic evolution of this next chapter. An artist’s artist, a showman’s showman, and a creative force that refuses to be boxed in—Durand Bernarr is here to stay.
