I Used to Know Her: The Prelude

Released in August 2018, 'I Used to Know Her: The Prelude' marked a pivotal expansion of H.E.R.'s sonic identity beyond the mysterious, silhouette-shrouded persona of her debut compilations. While maintaining her signature 'vibe' - characterized by reverb-heavy production and intimate vocal delivery - this EP introduced a more explicit hip-hop influence. The opening track 'Lost Souls' famously interpolates Lauryn Hill's 'Lost Ones,' showcasing H.E.R.'s capability as a rapper and social commentator. The project is anchored by 'Could’ve Been,' a standout collaboration with Bryson Tiller that became a definitive R&B ballad of the era. Critically, the EP was praised for its musicality, specifically her integration of blues-rock guitar sensibilities into a contemporary soul framework. It serves as the first installment of a multi-part series that eventually culminated in her debut full-length studio album, positioning her as a leading voice in the neo-soul revival of the late 2010s.