"Ten Fold" is the new album from New York artist Yaya Bey, following her critically acclaimed 2022 release "Remember Your North Star" and its 2023 follow-up EP "Exodus the North Star." It's a rich and reflective record that pays tribute to her late father, Ayub Bey—the emcee and producer Grand Daddy I.U., who was a member of the pioneering hip-hop collective Juice Crew.
The album features contributions from friends and collaborators such as Karriem Riggins, Jay Daniel, and Corey Fonville, and draws from a wide range of sounds, including Soulquarians-style neo-soul, upbeat funk, house, and boom bap.
Resilience, community, and love are strong themes throughout the album. In "chasing the bus," Bey addresses being underestimated in both romantic relationships and the music industry, affirming herself to let go of external validation and persist in her artistry. "chrysanthemums" and "east coast mami" celebrate her potential and project confidence in the face of adversity.
Grief and loss are also prevalent, particularly in "yvette's cooking show," where Bey directly addresses her late father over a simple piano loop. The song becomes a prayer for peace, and a meditation on finding solace, and healing and a path through pain. "iloveyoufrankiebeverly" pays homage to Bey's cultural roots, recalling the songs that shaped her upbringing and the influence of artists like Mary J. Blige on the women in her family."
"Ten Fold" is a beautiful, moving album that weaves personal stories with social commentary. Its power lies in an honest look at grief, strength, and complex relationships, all elevated by Bey's unique voice and soulful production.
Ten Fold
Yaya Bey