Earlier in the summer, Dutch DJ duo Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike began teasing a then unreleased collaboration with none other than Diplo, testing the ID out during a performance. Now, the result of their studio time together is finally here as “Hey Baby” with Deb’s Daughter drops on Diplo’s Mad Decent imprint.
“Hey Baby” earns its own share of comparison to Major Lazer’s massive single “Lean On,” kicking off with a tropical meets pop production complete with offbeat synth plucks and slowed down four on the floor beats. The verses features some heavily auto-tuned topline hooks courtesy of Deb’s Daughter, before successive snare hits push the song forward into the drops. Unsurprisingly, we’re treated to twisted vocal chops layered over steel drum melodies and uplifting rhythms.
Despite being well produced, “Hey Baby” is a bit of a mixed effort. Diplo definitely takes the lead here, but the use of overly familiar sounds and the same formula that made “Lean On” a success feels tired by this point. That being said, fans of mainstage dance music will likely still find plenty to enjoy from the new single.