Durand Bernarr is a GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, and visionary artist who has emerged as one of the most exciting and innovative voices in contemporary R&B. Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Durand was born into a musical family, with an audio engineer father and a vocal coach mother who cultivated his deep connection to sound. By 16, he was already working behind the scenes with Earth, Wind & Fire, a pivotal moment that sparked his career. Durand’s distinct voice and genre-blending style first captured attention with his 2016 project Sound Check, but it was his debut album DUR& (2020)—featuring collaborations with Ari Lennox, Anna Wise, and Kaytranada—that solidified his place in the R&B landscape.
Following his breakthrough, Durand’s artistry continued to soar with the release of Wanderlust and the critically acclaimed, GRAMMY-nominated En Route, which earned recognition in the Best Progressive R&B Album category. Durand’s contribution to Kaytranada’s Timeless, especially on the track “Weird,” further exemplified his ability to transcend genres, earning a Grammy participation certificate and expanding his reach into electronic music. In 2023, Durand teamed up with rising producer Charlie Vettuno for Charlie Vettuno Presents…Where in the World is Carmen Randiego?!, an EP that continued his creative exploration while bridging the gap between Wanderlust and his upcoming album BLOOM.
Renowned for his electrifying live performances—whether performing at major festivals like Bonnaroo and Essence Festival or performance platforms like Tiny Desk —Durand has earned a reputation as a captivating showman and a force to be reckoned with. His upcoming album, BLOOM, represents a new, deeply personal chapter in his career, celebrating love in its purest forms: friendship, self-discovery, and community. “This album is a tribute to the bonds that have shaped me and the freedom to nurture spaces where love flourishes,” Durand reflects. With his bold sound and authentic storytelling, Durand Bernarr continues to push the boundaries of modern R&B, captivating audiences and leaving an indelible mark on the music world.
Presented by AEG, Jazz Cafe and Colombo. Tickets available via Alt Tickets.
