DeAndre has established himself as a formidable artist within contemporary neo-soul. He has been rapturously received in London in particular, having sold-out all his Pizza Express Live shows last Christmas and this past April. His Christmas 2019 show is already 50% sold out. His debut album Black Denim (embedded below) has drawn comparisons to the likes of Maxwell and D’Angelo.
The reasons for his success are many: superb vocals, layered and groove-laden arrangements, and an ear for hooks that combine 90s throwback influences with a distinctly contemporary aesthetic.
On his latest single ‘Tell It Like It Is’, DeAndre mixes a subtle reggae influence into a sparse, soulful groove. The urgency of the pre-chorus sinks into the song’s main hook, which builds in power and harmony. DeAndre’s voice roams freely around the track; he is an artist who knows how to exploit the nuances and secret treasures of his instrument. While providing chesty grit, he also glides into his falsetto register seamlessly.
‘Are we just faithful friends, or is this love? ‘ DeAndre asks. Tired of obfuscation from his love interest, DeAndre implores honesty and frankness. Speaking exclusively to The House That Soul Built, DeAndre explains the frustration of not knowing where someone stands in a relationship and how this spawned the song: ‘I was in that situation where I was talking to someone and I was like “okay, well, could you just tell me like it is?”, ’cause I don’t want to sit here thinking that you could be someone when it’s either just physical or amusing for your entertainment.’
To see DeAndre perform in London this upcoming Christmas, click on this link here!
(Image copyright: DeAndre)
