Lekan, a first-generation Nigerian-American baritone, teams up with Compton’s own Gemaine in a collaboration that underscores the rising tide of talent in today’s independent R&B scene. Both artists, relatively fresh on the scene, seem poised to carve out their own space in the contemporary music landscape.
Lekan, who made his official debut this year with the EP So You Know, has quickly garnered attention, with tracks like “Familiar” amassing nearly two million streams on Spotify—a remarkable achievement for an emerging artist. His smooth, velvety baritone pairs well with the emotional depth of his music, and his work with notable producers like Bongo ByTheWay is a testament to his growing influence in the indie R&B sphere.
Gemaine, meanwhile, is known for his distinctive blend of R&B, modern pop, and hip-hop. While his previous releases may not have dominated the charts, they have earned him a solid foothold within the indie R&B community. His collaborations, including his recent work with Reggie Becton, have helped solidify his following. Gemaine’s live performances, marked by soulful and captivating vocals, have also showcased his growing versatility as he continues to make waves with his expressive tenor.
Their latest collaboration, Natural High, is a slow-burning R&B gem that effortlessly highlights the duo’s dynamic vocal range. Gemaine’s sweet tenor juxtaposed with the richness of Lekan’s baritone in the second verse brings a refreshing depth to the track. Both artists display exceptional dynamic control, and the merging of their registers in the chorus is sparse yet electrifying, making this track a standout moment in their careers.
