STREAM “DON’T BE SHY”
Global superstars and long-time collaborators: Yemi Alade and Kenya’s international hitmaker Bien, have once again reunited to release “Don’t Be Shy” – what may be one of their best collaborations yet. The irresistible new single, released via Effyzzie Music, serves as the first taste of Yemi Alade’s forthcoming self-titled album, IT’S YEMI ALADE, set for release this year. Stream the single here.
Produced by acclaimed Nigerian producer De Yaso, alongside Kenyan producer Kobby Worldwide, “Don’t Be Shy” is a sweet, sensual and infectious Afro-R&B track infused with the irresistible rhythms of Kompa. Capturing the magnetic pull between two people unafraid to surrender to their feelings, the song is a mood and a vibe. With its smooth melodies, undeniable chemistry and dance-inducing groove, “Don’t Be Shy” effortlessly pulls listeners onto the dancefloor while offering an exciting glimpse into the next chapter of Yemi Alade’s next music project and era.
Speaking on the release, Yemi Alade shares: “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. 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. It’s a great jam to dance to, but also warm and intimate. I hope you all love it as much as we do.”
Bien adds: “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.”
Bien and Yemi Alade’s creative journey traces back to Yemi Alade and Sauti Sol’s classic collaboration “Africa”, followed by a series of creative collaborations including Yemi Alade’s Swahili version of “Nagode” and Yemi Alade’s take on Bien’s “All My Enemies Are Suffering” that was included into the single’s Remix EP. On “Don’t Be Shy” the stars are bringing renewed creative energy that marries their undeniable chemistry that feels both fresh and familiar. Blending Yemi’s signature charisma with Bien’s smooth vocals, “Don’t Be Shy” is a celebration of African musical excellence and a reminder of why these two artists remain among the continent’s most beloved stars.
“Don’t Be Shy” serves as the first glimpse into Yemi Alade’s forthcoming self-titled album, IT’S YEMI ALADE, her eleventh music project to date, arriving ahead of a major showcase in Paris, France. If “Don’t Be Shy” is anything to go by, anticipation for IT’S YEMI ALADE is only set to soar.
With each release, Yemi continues to cement her status as one of Africa’s most prolific songwriters, electrifying performers and enduring cultural icons. Her unwavering commitment to originality, deep connection to her heritage and unapologetic celebration of the African continent remain at the heart of her artistry, inspiring audiences across the globe while continuing to elevate African music on the world stage.
Stream “Don’t Be Shy” now on all major platforms.
ABOUT YEMI ALADE
Yemi Alade is a GRAMMY-nominated Nigerian singer-songwriter, performer and global Afro-pop star celebrated for her electrifying stage presence and genre-defining hits. Her acclaimed discography includes ‘Rebel Queen’ (2024), ‘Mamapiano’ EP (2023), ‘African Baddie’ (2022), ‘Queendoncom’ (2021), ‘Empress’ (2020), ‘Woman of Steel’ (2019), ‘Black Magic’ (2017), ‘Mama Africa’ (2016) and ‘King of Queens’ (2014). Internationally recognized for chart-topping hits such as “Johnny,” Yemi Alade has become one of the most celebrated African female artists globally, earning multiple awards and nominations including MTV Africa Music Awards, Trace Awards and Grammy recognition. Beyond music, she is also a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador and philanthropist committed to youth empowerment and social impact through the James and Helen Pathway Foundation.
ABOUT BIEN
Bien-Aimé is an award-winning Kenyan singer-songwriter, performer and global Afro-fusion star celebrated for his soulful vocals, poetic songwriting and captivating stage presence. His acclaimed discography includes ‘Alusa Continua’ (2025), ‘Alusa Why Are You Topless’ projects (2024 & 2023) and ‘Bald Men Love Better’ (2021). Internationally recognized for chart-topping hits such as “Mbwe Mbwe”, “Ma Cherie”, “Wahala” and “All My Enemies Are Suffering”, Bien has emerged as one of East Africa’s most influential contemporary artists, earning multiple awards including at Trace Awards, The Headies and a GRAMMY songwriting credit. With a two-decade long career as a founding member of the acclaimed Kenyan band Sauti Sol, Bien has successfully established a global solo career, headlining sold-out shows and international tours across Africa and beyond.