Eli Derby Returns with “Pretty Girl Dangerous,” Teams with Bri3 for Smooth New R&B Release
Maryland’s rising R&B talent Eli Derby is kicking off 2026 with a strong statement. The singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist has released his latest single, “Pretty Girl Dangerous,” featuring Baltimore rapper Bri3, through Art@War/Warner Records.
The new record blends Derby’s soulful vocals with Bri3’s confident delivery, creating a modern R&B collaboration centered on attraction, temptation, and the irresistible pull of someone who may be more trouble than they’re worth.
Co-produced by Eli Derby alongside Delante “Butta” Murphy—known for his work with Trey Songz—”Pretty Girl Dangerous” combines warm guitar melodies, atmospheric production, and honest storytelling into a track that feels equally suited for late-night playlists and radio rotation.
“‘Pretty Girl Dangerous’ captures the thrill of being drawn to someone you know might be trouble, but wanting more anyway,” Derby said. “It felt honest and relatable from the moment we started making it, and that authenticity is what gives the record its energy.”
The release marks Derby’s first new music of 2026 following a steady rise that has positioned him as one of the DMV’s most promising R&B artists. Fans first connected with records like “Cadillac Dreams” and “Lately” featuring 6LACK, while projects including Slow Burn, More Than Friends, and Left on Read showcased his ability to merge live instrumentation with emotionally transparent songwriting.
What continues to separate Derby from many of today’s R&B newcomers is his musicianship. A self-taught drummer, pianist, and guitarist, he builds records that bridge contemporary R&B production with the organic feel of live performance. That approach has helped him generate nearly 40 million global streams while cultivating a loyal audience through intimate performances and engaging social media content.
Now signed with ART@WAR/Warner Records, Derby appears poised for an even larger breakthrough.
The momentum continues next month as he joins fellow R&B artist Honey Bxby on an East Coast tour, bringing his signature guitar-driven live show to fans across several major markets.
Eli Derby Tour Dates with Honey Bxby
- July 23 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fallser Club
- July 27 – Washington, DC – Songbyrd Music House
- July 28 – Richmond, VA – Mell J’s North Backroom
- July 30 – Atlanta, GA – Vinyl at Center Stage Theater
The PUB Report Take
With authenticity becoming increasingly valuable in today’s R&B landscape, Eli Derby continues proving that heartfelt songwriting, live musicianship, and modern production remain a winning combination. “Pretty Girl Dangerous” showcases an artist growing both creatively and commercially, making this one of the standout independent R&B releases to watch as 2026 unfolds.
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