EXP Delivers a Fresh Take on Manila Grey's 'Backhouse Ballin'

Auckland-based R&B duo EXP, consisting of Keegan YT and Jayy Pulvera, continue to make waves in the music scene with their latest cover of "Backhouse Ballin" by Manila Grey. Known for their smooth fusion of R&B and Hip-Hop, EXP has taken the trap-infused original and injected it with their own signature sound, creating a cover that stands out while paying homage to the Filipino-Canadian duo.

Bringing a New Dimension to the Track

Manila Grey’s "Backhouse Ballin" is celebrated for its atmospheric production and smooth flow, encapsulating the West Coast vibe with a dash of moody trap beats. EXP, however, takes a slightly different approach. With Keegan YT's sultry vocals and Jayy Pulvera’s ability to blend both singing and rapping, EXP transforms the track into a more melodic and vocally rich rendition. They dial down the hard-hitting beats and replace them with lush R&B instrumentation that puts a spotlight on the duo's vocal dynamics.

While Manila Grey's original captures a cool, laid-back energy with lyrics about success, loyalty, and staying grounded, EXP's version highlights the emotional depth of the track, creating a smooth yet intense atmosphere that feels both intimate and introspective. Keegan YT’s vocal delivery adds a personal touch, while Jayy Pulvera's rap verses bring a modern edge, making the cover feel fresh yet familiar.

EXP’s Signature Sound

Over the past few months, EXP has been building their reputation as masters of R&B covers, reworking tracks from a wide range of genres into their own style. Whether it's reimagining Taylor Swift’s "RED" as an R&B ballad or bringing a soulful twist to Yo Trane’s "Girls Like You," Keegan YT and Jayy Pulvera have consistently showcased their versatility as artists. This cover of "Backhouse Ballin" further solidifies their unique approach, blending atmospheric production with R&B vocals and hip-hop elements.

What makes EXP’s covers stand out is their attention to detail. Their ability to maintain the essence of the original track while adding new dimensions to it is what draws listeners in. This balance is evident in their take on "Backhouse Ballin," where they maintain the chill, confident vibes of the original while injecting their own flavor into the production and vocal arrangement.

Elevating R&B in Auckland and Beyond

As EXP continues to experiment with different sounds and genres, they are helping to push the boundaries of R&B in New Zealand’s music scene. Their ability to seamlessly blend influences from global artists with their local roots is part of what makes them such a dynamic duo. Their cover of "Backhouse Ballin" not only showcases their artistry but also highlights the potential of Auckland’s emerging R&B scene.

With each new release, EXP is making it clear that they are here to stay, carving out their own space in the music industry. Their latest cover is another example of their ability to take inspiration from other artists and turn it into something uniquely theirs.

If you haven't heard EXP's version of "Backhouse Ballin" yet, it’s a must-listen for fans of both R&B and hip-hop. As they continue to grow and evolve, it’s exciting to think about what EXP will do next, and we can’t wait to see how they continue to reshape the R&B landscape.

Final Thoughts

EXP’s cover of "Backhouse Ballin" is yet another testament to their talent and creativity. By taking a well-loved track and making it their own, Keegan YT and Jayy Pulvera continue to demonstrate their growth as artists and their ability to connect with a wide audience. As they build on their ever-growing list of reimagined hits, EXP is proving that they have what it takes to leave a lasting mark on the R&B and hip-hop scenes, not just in Auckland, but globally.