Rising pop artist Billie Eilish and Grammy-nominated R&B artist Khalid, exhibit superb vocal chemistry on the radiant single, “Lovely.”

16. That’s how old pop singer/songwriter Billie Eilish is. As Aaliyah once sang, “Age Ain’t Nothing but A Number.” That’s the case with Eilish, who has proven earlier she has plenty of potential artistically. Eilish takes a big step forward on “Lovely,” a stunning collaborative single with Grammy-nominated, 20-year old R&B singer, Khalid.

“Lovely” opens with mysterious, rhythmic piano. Soon after, moody, lush strings enter in. Ultimately, “Lovely” features beautiful, relatively simple and subtle production work.  Billie Eilish takes the lead on the first verse, while Khalid serves up subtle contributions before becoming a full-fledged duet partner on the second half of the verse. On the second verse, the two switch roles. Khalid takes the lead on the second verse, with Eilish playing the supportive role.

The pre-chorus, which follows both verses, ends up being more intense than the chorus itself.  This is a nice change of pace. This section is definitely in the running as the crowning achievement of “Lovely.”

“But I know someday I’ll make it out of here
Even if it takes all night or a hundred years
Need a place to hide, but I can’t find one near
Wanna feel alive outside I can’t fight my fear.”

Yes, the pre-chorus is more dynamic, but the chorus is more chilling and haunting in its subtlety.  Eilish always leads the charge on the chorus, before Khalid joins her on the second half.  The vocal chemistry is simply marvelous.

“Isn’t it lovely, all alone

Heart made of glass, my mind of stone

Tear me to pieces, skin…”

Final Thoughts 

The stars seem to be aligning for Billie Eilish.  Eilish and Khalid have created something truly radiant with “Lovely.” The title is totally fitting.

Billie Eilish & Khalid • Lovely– Single • Interscope • Release: 4.20.18

Photo Credit: Interscope