threetwenty – who are you to me
May 24, 2025Brooklyn-born, bedroom-producer Laila! reemerges with “Want 2 (HAPPY BIRTHDAY!),” a sweet wave of late-night sentiment and youthful candor that lingers. Over a breezy beat, Laila’s voice drifts through poetic declarations and unspoken longings—capturing that moment when feelings flutter beneath casual cool.
Her debut album Gap Year! introduced her as the daughter Yasiin Bey, confidently self-producing and weaving nostalgic R&B and bedroom pop with raw emotionality. Influenced by Brandy and Lauryn Hill, Laila! emerged as a sincere voice in the alternative R&B scene, performing at Tyler, the Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw and producing half the album in her bedroom.
“Want 2” continues this trajectory—melding introspection with that offhand swagger. It feels like a glimpse into her inner world, polished yet personal, echoing the same heartfelt energy that made Gap Year! such an intimate debut.
