Maryland singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Eli Derby returns with his first release of 2026, “Pretty Girl Dangerous,” a new single featuring Baltimore rapper Bri3. Released via Art@War/Warner Records, the record pairs Eli’s melodic R&B sensibilities with Bri3’s confident perspective on a story about attraction, temptation, and the people who keep you coming back for more.

 

 

Co-produced by Eli Derby and Delante “Butta” Murphy (Trey Songz), “Pretty Girl Dangerous” blends warm guitar textures, atmospheric production, and conversational songwriting that captures the rush of falling for someone who may not be good for you—but is impossible to ignore.

“‘Pretty Girl Dangerous’ captures the thrill of being drawn to someone you know might be trouble, but wanting more anyway,” says Eli. “It felt honest and relatable from the moment we started making it, and that authenticity is what gives the record its energy.”

The track marks Eli’s first new music release since building momentum with songs like “Cadillac Dreams,” “Lately” featuring 6LACK, and projects including Slow Burn, More Than Friends, and Left on Read. Across his catalog, Eli has developed a reputation for blending vulnerable storytelling, live instrumentation, and modern R&B production into songs that feel both personal and relatable.

A self-taught musician who began playing drums, piano, and guitar as a teenager, Eli has steadily grown from a local talent into one of the DMV’s most promising emerging voices, generating nearly 40 million global streams while cultivating a dedicated fanbase through intimate live performances and social content.

Next month, Eli will join Honey Bxby on tour, bringing his guitar-driven live show to audiences across the East Coast

Eli Derby on Tour with Honey Bxby
Jul 23 – Philadelphia, PA @ The Fallser Club
Jul 27 – Washington, DC @ Songbyrd Music House
Jul 28 – Richmond, VA @ Mell J’s North Backroom
Jul 30 – Atlanta, GA @ Vinyl (Center Stage Theater)