Fresh off a Grammy-winning year and the release of his latest album BERNARR., acclaimed vocalist, songwriter, and producer Durand Bernarr is celebrating Black Music Month with a fresh take on a timeless classic.
Amazon Music has officially launched its 2026 Black Music Month campaign with an exclusive Amazon Music Original cover of Earth, Wind & Fire’s iconic hit, “Let’s Groove,” performed by Bernarr. Released on June 5, the track serves as the first major offering in Amazon Music’s month long celebration highlighting the genius, impact and legacy of Black music.
Rather than simply recreating the beloved record, Bernarr infuses the song with his signature vocal style and contagious energy while preserving the joy and spirit that made the original a cultural staple. The cover carries special significance for the singer, whose connection to Earth, Wind & Fire extends beyond admiration. Bernarr’s father worked closely with the legendary group as a sound engineer and production manager, making the band’s music a defining part of his childhood.
“Earth, Wind & Fire’s music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember,” Bernarr shared in a statement. “My father worked closely with the band for years, so these songs weren’t just records in our house, they were part of the soundtrack of my upbringing.”
He continued, “Getting the opportunity to reimagine ‘Let’s Groove’ for Amazon Music during Black Music Month felt incredibly special. I wanted to honor the joy, musicianship, and legacy that Earth, Wind & Fire created while bringing my own perspective and energy to a song that continues to move people generations later.“
The tribute has also earned praise from Earth, Wind & Fire themselves. Philip Bailey, the legendary singer, songwriter, and percussionist for the group, applauded Bernarr’s interpretation of the classic.
“Durand’s version of ‘Let’s Groove’ is super hot! And we expect nothing less from the young student of music who used to sit on the side of the stage taking in our concerts, wide eyed, ears open,” Bailey said. “He’s not a student anymore. Durand has arrived, and we are so proud to call him family.”
The release arrives during one of the most successful periods of Bernarr’s career. Earlier this year, he earned his first Grammy Award for Best Progressive R&B Album with BLOOM, a project that further established him as one of contemporary R&B’s most innovative and fearless voices. He recently followed that achievement with the release of BERNARR., a deeply personal self-titled album that honors his family legacy while showcasing his continued artistic evolution.
Featuring appearances from Big Sean, BJ The Chicago Kid, James Fauntleroy, Khalid, Sevyn Streeter, and Vic Mensa, BERNARR. has been met with widespread acclaim from both critics and fans.
As Black Music Month continues, Bernarr’s rendition of “Let’s Groove” serves as both a celebration of musical heritage and a reminder of how timeless songs can find new life through a new generation of artists.
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