Nigerian music star Yemi Alade has opened up about her latest collaboration with Kenyan singer Bien, describing their new song “Don’t Be Shy” as a celebration of honesty, connection and confidence.
Speaking about the track, which was released via Effyzzie Music, Yemi said working with Bien felt natural and allowed both artists to express a playful side of their artistry.
“I have always loved the soulfulness of Bien’s music, and working with him on this record was so easy. Music has always been about emotion and connection for me.”
She says that the song, which blends Afropop, R&B, and Kompa, is also “playful” and “honest”.
“And I feel like in ‘Don’t Be Shy’ we are both being playful, confident and honest, in expressing feelings when you’re into someone,” Yemi adds. “It’s a great jam to dance to, but also warm and intimate. I hope you all love it as much as we do.”
Produced by Nigerian producer De Yaso alongside Kenyan producer Kobby Worldwide, “Don’t Be Shy” explores the attraction between two people who are unafraid to express their feelings, combining smooth melodies with an upbeat groove designed for the dancefloor.
Bien echoed Yemi’s sentiments, saying the collaboration came together effortlessly.
“Working with Yemi was an incredible experience because the energy felt natural from the beginning. ‘Don’t Be Shy’ is about confidence, chemistry and enjoying the moment. We want you to just feel good and loosen up when this song comes on,” he said.
The collaboration continues a creative partnership that stretches back to Yemi Alade and Sauti Sol’s hit collaboration “Africa”.
Since then, the pair have worked together on several projects, including Yemi’s Swahili version of “Nagode” and her contribution to the remix package of Bien’s “All My Enemies Are Suffering”.
“Don’t Be Shy” also offers the first preview of Yemi Alade’s forthcoming self-titled album, IT’S YEMI ALADE, which is expected later this year.
The project will mark her eleventh music release and arrives ahead of a major showcase in Paris, France.
