In a remarkable and very effective teamup, Yves V and Conor Maynard have revived one of the world’s biggest dance hits to a beautiful piece of 21st century pop. “Don’t Hurt Me (What Is Love)” builds on the chorus of Haddaway’s eponymous 1993 hit, but turns into a gem of its own as it takes off on gentle beats, warm guitar chords and Maynard’s compelling vocals. Check out how these seasoned artists reshaped an all-time classic, now on Spinnin’ Records.
“What Is Love” counts as a benchmark in dance music history. Wrapped in fierce house beats and powerful synth chords, the sensitive song by Haddaway was a clear sign how electronic music was gaining popularity in the early 90’s, not only taking over the clubs, but also moving up the pop charts. This song in particular reached #1 in more than 10 countries, turning into an evergreen for every generation that followed.
So, when a productional mastermind like Yves V teams up with renowned UK singer-songwriter Conor Maynard to renew this classic, you know something special will come out.
With releases on the most renowned labels, Belgian DJ/producer Yves V has already garnered millions of streams by now, making every new single a much anticipated event, picked up on festival stages and radio airwaves all over the globe. His sound has explored the widths of electronic music, from raving electro to pop and deep house, recently highlighted with global smashes like “We Got That Cool” (feat. Afrojack & Icona Pop), “Not So Bad” (feat. Emie) and this year’s hit “Imagine Me & You” (feat. FAST BOY).
He’s a perfect match for Conor Maynard, known for his powerful vocals and ever soulful approach to pop and R&B tinged tunes. From his widely acclaimed solo records in the early 10’s to recent hits “You Broke Me First” and “Believers,” to highly successful teamups and featurings with Kris Kross Amsterdam (from 2018’s “Whenever” to last year’s “Early In The Morning”), his voice always manages to spark up raw emotions and delicate hooks.
“Don’t Hurt Me (What Is Love)” lets both artists work their magic to full extend. Building towards Haddaway’s indestructible chorus, the record opens with Maynard’s affectionate vocals, setting a mood of his own with original lyrics above gentle chords and a subtle house groove. When the song drops into the world famous lyrics, the vibe is lit with beautiful backing melodies and catchy guitar licks, smoothly worked into a punchy house beat.
Similar to the 1993 original, the song merges infectious pop hooks with sweet, contemporary electronic rhythms. In this brand new guise, Yves V delivers extra layers of organic melodies around Maynard’s characteristic voice, adding more warmth and summer ambiance, turning it into a summer anthem all over again. Nearly 30 years to date, and these guys let “Don’t Hurt Me (What Is Love)” feel more fresh than ever.