The duo Brooklyn Saint, drummer-producer Emanuel Harrold and vocalist-songwriter Shareef Keyes have found a sweet spot between groove and vulnerability with their new single “What You Telling Me?” It’s a soul-funk confession that moves like honey: smooth, expressive, and full of emotional grit.
Also Read: Mission Soleil” — Jazz, Satire, and Solar Swagger from rAIp
At its core, the track explores that all-too-familiar tension between love and friendship, when words stop lining up and silence says more than the conversation ever could. Keyes delivers the hook with both ache and confidence, singing “What you telling me? Please don’t say that,” like someone trying to protect their peace while still craving closure. The lyrics cut through layers of pride and confusion, balancing heartbreak with self-awareness.
Harrold’s production is lush and full-bodied, think Parliament-Funkadelic swagger meeting Anderson .Paak’s rhythmic playfulness, all anchored by the looseness of live soul instrumentation. There’s a pulse that feels both retro and fresh, with basslines that hum like emotion under pressure and percussion that swings without ever losing its control.
Also Read: Double Back (AI Remake)’ by KAAINE: Same Lyrics, New Dimension ‘
By the time the song fades, “What You Telling Me?” leaves behind more than just a catchy groove, it captures that raw, quiet realization when something once close begins to drift. Brooklyn Saint turn that ache into art, giving modern R&B its funk back and reminding listeners that honesty still hits harder than ego.
Stream Below:
FOLLOW ARTIST
