Born 2 B returns with the very interesting “Can We Start Over? (Radio Version)," a deeply touching hip-hop and R&B duet with UK songstress Marlene Quest. The lead single carries the emotional heft and intimacy of 90s rap-and-soul duets, evoking the timeless intersection of raw storytelling with soulful songwriting for an audience here in 2025. It's a song that speaks to the idea of vulnerability, growth, and the complexity of trying love again.
Anchored by warm piano keys and classic boom-bap drums, with polished contemporary production, the song strikes a balance between authenticity and accessibility. Marlene Quest’s voice adds a depth and classic warmth to the chorus, bringing some welcome contrast to Born 2 B’s world-weary wisdom. His writing style is that of a veteran of UK hip-hop, and he draws listeners into a narrative that touches both the personal and the universally relatable.
But for dedicated fans, the return of Born 2 B isn’t just a new release; it’s also an addendum to a storied career. As an early UK hip-hop and jazz-rap pioneer, he contributed directly towards the UK success of Us3, which was founded on Parsons's production, as well as with the foundation of Ninja Tune; his sound helped forge that label. This song showcases his ability to pay homage to hip-hop's origins while exploring the artistic range of R&B and soul in today's day and age.
“Can We Start Over?” is, in the end, a meditation on resilience and memory. It’s a song that encourages us to come face-to-face with love, forgiveness, and second chances while offering up its own warm melodic soundscape. Born2B states the case that so many years in life have resulted in work that is still fresh and will touch you, old school UK hip-hop at its best.