Eric Bellinger returns with another signature cover, or “E-Mix,” this time lending his pipes to Rae Sremmurd’s megahit “Black Beatles.”
Directed by Cam Fairfax and Zach Burnett, Eric posts atop Lookout Mountain overlooking the city of Los Angeles and Laurel Canyon at sunset, providing his twist on Swae Lee’s infectious melody, adding impressive vocal runs and ad-libbing over SoufWest’s warmer interpretation of Mike Will Made It’s beat.
“When I heard this joint, I knew it had potential to be a bonafide R&B hit as well,” Eric explained. “I’m pretty crazy at formatting songs, I’d say I’ve mastered the basics and know the 101 behind making a song be the best it can be. With lyrics like Swae’s ‘cream seats in the Regal / Rockin John Lennon lenses’ line, I was super hype to take this song to the next level, at least in my opinion, by highlighting their words and simply adding passion, pain, & clarity to each bar. I look at doing covers like that old MTV show ‘Pimp My Ride’ where they would lace someone’s car – this is like ‘Pimp My Song.’ I’m adding all kinds of stuff and messing around with the tempo, the beat, and melodies etc. I really enjoy giving people a different version of a song that they already love.”
Watch and enjoy below:
Eric Bellinger’s cover of “Black Beatles,” originally by Rae Sremmurd featuring Gucci Mane, is a fresh and soulful reinterpretation of the 2016 hip-hop hit. Known for his smooth R&B style, Bellinger brings a different energy to the track, infusing it with his signature melodic flair and vocal prowess. While the original is marked by its hypnotic beat and laid-back delivery, Bellinger’s version transforms it into a more polished, harmonically rich experience.
The cover retains the essential elements of the original—its catchy hook and memorable verses—but adds a layer of sophistication through intricate vocal arrangements and a more refined production. Bellinger’s vocal delivery is smooth and controlled, highlighting his ability to blend R&B with hip-hop influences seamlessly. The tempo is slightly adjusted to match his style, making the track feel more like a laid-back groove, perfect for easy listening.
In Bellinger’s hands, “Black Beatles” becomes a showcase for his versatility as an artist, demonstrating how he can take a well-known rap anthem and turn it into something distinctly his own. The cover is a testament to Bellinger’s talent for reimagining popular tracks while staying true to the essence of the original, creating a fresh and engaging listening experience.
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