It's been a while since we've received new music from N.E.R.D. Seven years to be exact. But over the weekend at Camp Flog Gnaw, there were signs that indicated to the groups return. Today, the speculations prove true after they release their new single "Lemon" featuring Rihanna.
N.E.R.D. return with a new video and single for their new song "Lemon." It's reminiscent of older N.E.R.D. tunes with funky minimal production that's bound to have the room bumping. They've been gone for too long so this is a nice re-entrance back in the game. Both N.E.R.D and Rihanna shed their mainstream pop sound for a more grittier vibe. The single starts off with Pharrell saying, "The truth will set you free, but first, it’ll piss you off," before Rihanna and Pharrell go back and forth trading bars. It's a dope re-entry for N.E.R.D. It's especially nice to hear Pharrell going into the zone that foreshadowed his greatness. With the release of "Lemon," it's definitely looking like we'll be hearing a project from them in the near future.
The video opens up with Rihanna shaving a girl's head before she's seen in a dingy arcade dancing around under dark blue and purple lights. It's a perfect visual to match the funk of the song.
Now that we've received the first single from N.E.R.D, it's safe to say this is just the beginning of their reunion. The speculations around them reuniting were ignited by their scheduled performance at the upcoming ComplexCon. On top of that, cryptic flyers that said "No_One Ever Really Dies" surrounded Tyler The Creators Camp Flog Gnaw festival and the groups social media profiles shared the same logo throughout. I guess Pharrell, Chad Hugo and Shay Haley are going to be making their triumphant return.
Quotable Lyrics
This ain't a scrimmage
Muhfugga we ain't finished
I tell you we won't stop
A nigga bout a business
Like yours but you rented
Wave hello to the top