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Yaya Bey’s music has always felt like a warm embrace, a space for vulnerability and honest reflection. That feeling is amplified on her new single, “Egyptian Musk,” a collaboration with Queens-based reggae artist NESTA, released today. The song, a preview of her forthcoming album Fidelity, is a lovestruck ode to intimacy and connection, carried by a dreamy reggae beat and Bey’s signature soulful vocals. It’s a sound that feels both familiar and fresh, a testament to Bey’s ability to blend genres and create something uniquely her own.
The genesis of “Egyptian Musk” was serendipitous. Bey and NESTA connected after a chance encounter at an event, sparking a creative partnership that resulted in their first song together. “We had this really dreamy reggae track that sounds like something old with a fresh spin,” Bey shared in press materials. The track is accompanied by a visually stunning music video, directed by Michael Grant, featuring Bey radiating joy alongside a partner sporting a bucket hat. The video perfectly captures the song’s intimate and carefree vibe.
Fidelity: A Personal and Political Project
“Egyptian Musk” isn’t just a standalone single; it’s a piece of a larger narrative unfolding on Fidelity, due out April 17 via Drink Sum Watr. Bey previously shared the lead single, “Blue,” offering another glimpse into the album’s emotional landscape. Fidelity is a deeply personal record for Bey, grappling with the grief she experienced following the death of her father, Juicy Crew member Grand Daddy I.U., in 2023, as reported by People. The album likewise confronts the ongoing challenges facing Black communities in New York City, specifically the displacement caused by gentrification.
Bey’s previous album, Do It Afraid, released in 2025, established her as a powerful voice in contemporary music, earning critical acclaim for its raw honesty and musical innovation. A 2024 interview with Clover Hope in The Pitch further illuminated Bey’s artistic process and her commitment to creating music that is both deeply personal and politically engaged.
A New Chapter for Yaya Bey
The release of “Egyptian Musk” signals a new chapter for Yaya Bey, one that embraces both vulnerability and joy. The song’s romantic energy offers a counterpoint to the heavier themes explored on Fidelity, showcasing the full range of Bey’s emotional depth. Her ability to navigate these complexities is what makes her music so compelling and relatable. Fans can pre-order Fidelity now on Bandcamp, with options for digital download, CD, or a 2xLP + CD bundle. The album is available for pre-order at Bandcamp.
The music video for “Egyptian Musk” is available to watch on YouTube:
Bey’s music consistently invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love, loss, and identity. “Egyptian Musk” is no exception, offering a moment of respite and connection in a world that often feels fractured. The song’s success will likely fuel anticipation for the full release of Fidelity, an album poised to solidify Yaya Bey’s position as one of the most essential voices in contemporary music. The album is set to be released on April 17, 2026, and fans can expect a continued exploration of themes surrounding grief, community, and the search for belonging.
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