Grammy-nominated producer Charlie Heat, known for his work in hip-hop (Kanye West, Lil Baby), looks to experiment more in the R&B space. His new compilation album, Valentine’s Son, is his formal introduction.
“I’ve always been known for the energy I bring to my beats in hip-hop, so I wanted to give my fans a different experience with my art through R&B,” he explained in a statement.
For the nine-track project, which is named after his mother Valentine, Heat enlisted R&B acts Sevyn Streeter, Ant Clemons, Gemaine, Yuna, Aria Bléu and a few others to contribute their vocals.
The project opens with the title track, which features emerging singer Gemaine. The guitar-laden production is subtle in a way that allows the listener to focus on the heartfelt message. “You’re the reason I made it / Where would I be without your presence?” he passionately sings.
Though Valentine’s Son was inspired by Heat’s mom, not every track revolves around a mother-son dynamic. Songs like “IOU” featuring Sevyn Streeter and “Circles” featuring Aria Bléu offer a look at the romantic side of love, while the Yuna-assisted “Angry Hearts” describes a tumultuous relationship.
Heat went to Instagram on Friday evening to express his gratitude. “A little emotional. Named after my mom. I still gotta call her back don’t be mad I love you 😭. But to the large group led of people who have took this ride with me and help me get my creative vision out time and time again I can’t begin to explain how grateful I am for all of you,” he wrote.
Valentine’s Son is the follow-up to Heat’s 2019 LP, Fireworks.
Listen to Valentine’s Son by Charlie Heat below.
