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What makes a great duet?
A timeless way of collaboration feeding off each other’s tones. The harmonies and contrast between male and females especially create such interest and passion-fueled collaborations. However you cannot expect just any two people to be able to work well together, there must be a certain level of chemistry and like-mindedness. The most common duets speak of love, working that balance together as you would in a relationship. The classics do this well in romantic blending of voices, whereas the modern style is much more diverse clashing two different tones off each other in a very precise way. For me, I really love a piece which has an urban rough edge against a gorgeous melodic side. That perfect mix of attitude and sweetness.
There have been quite a few duets out lately..
Those who first listen to Nick Brewer ft Bibi Bourelly - Talk To Me may recognize the base track as a sample of the classic ‘Gypsy Woman’ by Crystal Water, they’ve even kept the la da dee la da da! This is a good example of a modern-day relationship with both voices having a little attitude and bouncing off each other well.
This one first caught my attention with the catchy lyrics and then boom, that drop, MNEK & Zara Larsson - Never Forget You. Okay it’s a little on the EDM hype, but the real thing I love here is the way the vocal speed and range match the track so well, the best way to be described as climbing. And then you have to odd dips and powerful highs as well as a great contrast between the vocals.