Yaya Bey on her latest album, 'do it afraid'

"When you hear Yaya Bey talk about the state of the world, there's no question where she stands on the important issues. She's straightforward and fearless in discussing politics, race, the economy and how all of those things tie into her music and the way her music is received by the industry, especially as a Black artist. But that doesn't mean her new album, do it afraid, is heavy or humorless."

"As the title implies, Yaya Bey is finding joy and having fun, even when it might seem difficult. In this episode, Yaya Bey performs live and talks about all of those things, along with the making of her new record. She also talks about how working with her father, Grand Daddy I.U., had an early and lasting impact on her creativity."

Yaya Bey takes clear positions on politics, race, and the economy, integrating them into her music and industry experiences as a Black artist. Her album do it afraid balances serious societal commentary with joy and humor, embracing fear while finding pleasure. She performs live and describes the album's creation and influences. Early collaboration with her father, Grand Daddy I.U., shaped her creativity and continues to inform her work. Production and technical credits include Miguel Perez (producer/editor), Kimberly Junod (senior producer), Chris Williams (engineer), Chelsea Johnson (programming and booking coordinator), and Will Loftus (line producer).

Read at www.npr.org