David Debrandon Brown was born on September 25, 1985, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He grew up in a religious household where secular music was largely prohibited. As a result, he developed his musical abilities by learning melodies through church hymns. After leaving his family's church as a teenager, he immersed himself in R&B, soul, and funk music, drawing inspiration from artists such as Stevie Wonder, Prince, and Musiq Soulchild. Following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where he pursued a career in music.
Career
Beginnings and songwriting (2005–2018)
In 2005, when he was 19, Daye competed on season 4 of American Idol. He auditioned with a cover of "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke and received four "yes" votes. Soon after reaching the Top 20 he was eliminated from the competition.
Daye established himself, with his pseudonym, as a songwriter and background vocalist and landed credits in 2008 on songs by Keith Sweat on his album Just Me and Ne-Yo on "She Got Her Own". In 2014, he wrote for Boyz II Men on the song "Believe Us". During 2016 and 2017, he co-wrote songs released by Keke Palmer ("Enemiez"), Ella Mai ("10,000 Hours", "Down"), Trey Songz ("Song Goes Off"), and two tracks from the album Strength of a Woman by Mary J. Blige. In 2017 he worked with Ariana Grande on the song "More" which was scrapped from the latter's fourth studio album Sweetener.
Breakthrough with Painted (2018–2020)
In 2018, Lucky Daye signed with Keep Cool and RCA Records. Later that year, he released his debut single, "Roll Some Mo," which garnered attention for its smooth production and nostalgic R&B feel.[6] The song was included in his debut album, Painted, released on May 24, 2019. Painted received widespread critical acclaim and was nominated for four Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Album. Daye supported the album with a nationwide tour and performed at major festivals.[7][8]
Lucky Daye's debut studio album, Painted, was released on May 24, 2019, by Keep Cool Records and RCA Records. The album compiled songs from his earlier EPs, I and II, and introduced four new tracks, culminating in a 13-song collection.[9][10][11]Painted received critical acclaim for its modern take on R&B, earning a nomination for Best R&B Album at the 62nd Grammy Awards. The lead single, "Roll Some Mo," was particularly lauded, receiving nominations for Best R&B Song and Best R&B Performance. The album was praised for its rich instrumentation, innovative production, and Daye's ability to blend classic soul influences with contemporary R&B. In May 2020, a deluxe edition of the album was released to commemorate its first anniversary, featuring new mixes, alternative versions, and four additional tracks.
Released on March 10, 2022, Candydrip is Lucky Daye's sophomore studio album, continuing his collaboration with producer D'Mile.[13] The album explores themes of love, intimacy, and desire, blending elements of R&B, funk, and neo-soul. Candydrip received critical acclaim for its cohesive production and Daye's vocal performance, solidifying his place in contemporary R&B. The album was his first album on the Billboard Hot 200, debuting at number sixty-nine.[14] And the lead single, "Over," became his first entry on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.[15] The album was noted for its lush production, sultry lyrics, and seamless blend of nostalgic and futuristic sounds, with critics praising its ability to push the boundaries of R&B while remaining accessible.
Lucky Daye's third studio album, Algorithm, was released on June 28, 2024. Reuniting with producer D'Mile, the album features a collection of live-band soul and future-R&B tracks that aim to update the classic seduction jam with modern vulnerability. Algorithm was nominated for Best R&B Album at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, further cementing Daye's reputation as a leading figure in contemporary R&B.[16] The album was lauded for its experimental production, deeply personal lyrics, and intricate harmonies, showcasing a more mature and evolved sound from the artist. Critics highlighted its ability to merge traditional R&B foundations with electronic and alternative influences, making it one of his most adventurous projects to date.[17][18][19]
Lucky Daye’s music is characterized by its blend of R&B, funk, and neo-soul, often featuring live instrumentation and intricate vocal arrangements. He cites Stevie Wonder, Prince, and D'Angelo as some of his primary influences. His songwriting is known for its use of double & triple entendres, introspective and romantic themes, often exploring love, relationships, and personal growth.
On September 8, 2024, Lucky received the Inaugural "Torchbearer Award" from Billboard Charts No.1s Party for being the "new age blueprint" in R&B after receiving his first No.1 hit with his single "That’s You" on Adult R&B Songs chart.
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