Some collaborations just feel inevitable. Dawn Richard and Durand Bernarr meeting on a record is one of them — and "baby, can we?" makes the wait feel worth it.

Released June 16 via Merge Records, the track blends the warmth of New Orleans soul with progressive R&B, funk, and smooth, feel-good grooves — with Dawn and Durand's voices gliding together effortlessly to create a duet that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The song also nods to classic soul with an interpolation of Aretha Franklin's 1972 favorite "Day Dreaming."

Produced by Katalyst Collective and combining harmonies with the groove of New Orleans soul, R&B, and funk, "baby, can we?" arrives alongside a music video that captures the warmth of the song just as vividly. Co-directed by Richard and Carl Harrison Jr., it's honestly beautiful — Richard, resplendent in gold, hanging out at what appears to be a New Orleans park, hitting line-dances with locals. The visual expands on the song's celebration of joy, intimacy, culture, and movement.

"Durand is one of the most gifted vocalists and performers of our generation," Richard says of Bernarr. "I've admired his artistry for years. This record gave us the opportunity to create something together that feels joyful, honest, and rooted in genuine connection. At its heart, 'baby, can we?' is about being open enough to embrace possibility."

Bernarr echoes the sentiment: "It was only a matter of time before Dawn and I collaborated on a record. As suspected, working together was effortless! I've long respected her innovation as an artist and the way she continues to evolve while remaining true to herself. I hope y'all enjoy the record as much as we enjoyed making it!"

The track follows Bernarr's Grammy win this past February for Best Progressive R&B Album for BLOOM. For Richard, it offers a glimpse into her next chapter, following her 2024 album Quiet in a World Full of Noise, made in collaboration with Spencer Zahn, and her single "A FLEX" released last year.

Two distinctive voices, one effortless connection. "baby, can we?" is the sound of two artists who clearly belong together.

Stream "baby, can we?" now at lnk.to/babycanwe.