Soulful and fearless, Yaya Bey is back with big news. The Queens-based singer just unveiled three new singles — “Merlot And Grigio” featuring Father Philis, “Dream Girl,” and “Wake Up B*tch” — all from her newly announced upcoming album, Do It Afraid, due later this year.
“Merlot And Grigio,” a smooth, genre-blending groove, first dropped last month, hinting at the bold sonic textures of what’s to come. With “Dream Girl,” Bey leans into escapism, describing it as a song about “really tapping into your desires — knowing there’s a million heavy things that need your attention but also leaving room for fantasy.”
Opening the album is the fiery “Wake Up B*tch,” which channels righteous anger and raw emotion. “There’s so much to be angry about right now,” says Bey. “And though I’m not someone who likes to sit in anger for too long, I do think it’s important to acknowledge it.”
Do It Afraid features 18 tracks, with collaborations from Nigel Hall, Butcher Brown, Rahrah Gabor, Exaktly, and Father Philis. The tracklist promises a rich journey through themes of yearning, resistance, vulnerability, and joy.
Tracklist Highlights:
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“Wake Up B*tch”
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“Dream Girl”
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“Merlot And Grigio” (Feat. Father Philis)
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“Aye Noche” (Feat. Rahrah Gabor & Exaktly)
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“Choice”
Alongside the album announcement, Bey also revealed an extensive tour across North America, kicking off with a set at Governor’s Ball in NYC on June 7 and running through major cities from Philadelphia to Los Angeles this September.
Tour Dates:
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06/07 – New York, NY @ Governor’s Ball Festival
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09/10 – Philadelphia, PA @ Underground Arts
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09/11 – Boston, MA @ Brighton Music Hall
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09/12 – Brooklyn, NY @ 99 Scott
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09/13 – Washington, DC @ Union Stage
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09/16 – Atlanta, GA @ Aisle 5
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09/18 – Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall
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09/19 – Urbana, IL @ PYGMALION
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09/23 – Seattle, WA @ Neumos
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09/24 – Portland, OR @ Mississippi Studios
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09/26 – San Francisco, CA @ The Independent
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09/27 – Los Angeles, CA @ Lodge Room