THEHONESTGUY – NEVER BE THE SAME Single Review | Funky Soul 2026

THEHONESTGUY’s “NEVER BE THE SAME” is the Soulful Reset We Needed

There’s a specific kind of magic that happens when an artist stops trying to fit a mold and just leans into a vibe. THEHONESTGUY has been doing exactly that for a while now, but his latest single, “NEVER BE THE SAME” feels like a definitive moment. Released on March 6, 2026, and featuring the incredible Lizzie Berchie, the track is a masterstroke in what he calls “Funky Soul.”

If you’ve been following the Toronto native since his JUNO-nominated How To Make Love era, you know Mubarak Adeyemi doesn’t just drop songs; he builds entire moods.

That “Funky Soul” DNA

“NEVER BE THE SAME” is built on a foundation of 90s R&B nostalgia and neo-soul depth. It’s got that late-night, cinematic feel that’s become his signature, but there’s a fresh energy here.

The bassline hits first—steady and warm—before the vocals take over. The chemistry between THEHONESTGUY and Lizzie Berchie is the real star of the show. Their voices don’t just sit next to each other; they weave together. His rich, grounded tone is the perfect anchor for her airier, melodic runs.

Why It’s Cutting Through the Noise

In a week that saw massive releases from pop heavyweights like Harry Styles and Bruno Mars, “NEVER BE THE SAME” managed to carve out its own space. It’s already landed on high-profile playlists like Apple Music’s Brown Sugar, and for good reason.

While so much of today’s R&B feels like it was engineered specifically for a 15-second TikTok clip, this track prioritizes actual songwriting. It’s “grown and sexy” music that doesn’t feel dated. It’s about that specific tipping point in a relationship where you realize things have shifted—and there’s no going back.

The Verdict

Whether you’ve been a fan since Velvet Soul or you’re just catching on now, this is essential listening. It’s a reminder of why THEHONESTGUY is one of the most consistent voices coming out of the Canadian scene right now.