7X GRAMMY-Nominated singer/songwriter BJ The Chicago Kid delivers the jaunty, feel-good project of the year. The collaborative album, Gravy, with super-producer Yeti Beats (Doja Cat, Burna Boy) is available everywhere today along with the album’s focus track, “Never Change” with the legendary Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire. Moreover, the refreshing project comes out alongside and in tandem with the announcement of Yeti’s new label, Reach The World Records, a joint venture in partnership with RCA Records.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Yeti Beats and Reach the World,” shares John Fleckenstein, COO at RCA Records. “We have always admired BJ The Chicago Kid as a trailblazer with his blend of R&B, pop, and soul. We are proud to kick off this new relationship with Yeti by bringing BJ’s next chapter to the world.”
BJ The Chicago Kid’s new album
Reach the World puts a big and affirming foot forth, with Gravy as its first release; it is a true love letter to the genres of pop and soul. However, the album was recorded with a live band at Royal Studios in Memphis, Tennessee, the hallowed home of soul legend Al Green. The ’70s mellow grooves of Al Green even served as a profound inspiration for the album’s overarching sonic identity.
“My father loves Al Green, and I’ve always dreamed of recording a soul album in Memphis,” explains Yeti. “When the opportunity came up, BJ was my ideal collaborator—I consider BJ to be one of the greatest voices in soul/r&b today. His knowledge of and passion for soul music shaped the authentic sound of this album. I am proud and excited to release Gravy through my label, RTW, in partnership with RCA.”
BJ The Chicago Kid on the project’s inspiration
“I’m sick of soul music having an old name,” shares BJ on the album. “When you’re in the hood, and they love you, they give you a nickname. To me, the nickname of soul music is ‘gravy.’” He continues, “Gravy smothers, covers, and makes everything taste better. The album Gravy is the persona of what the new cool is.” Furthermore, he continues. “It’s that feeling when you’re at your absolute best, got on your best clothes, exuding confidence in every step and word.
“This project embodies the very essence of how you carry yourself, how you assert your authority, and how you rise to the occasion. In essence, it’s the soul of the music, and in turn, the music becomes the gravy that defines me.” This fusion of musical styles results in a sound. It’s both unconventional for the Chicago native and yet possesses a timeless quality that will resonate with listeners young and old.
Furthermore, remarkably, BJ and Yeti Beats, along with live soul band, The Indications, managed to bring this album to life in less than a week’s time. Moreover, Yeti provides a distinctive production that seamlessly blends vintage soul and pop elements; a move that positions it solidly into what’s now and ahead. However, as they fearlessly explore new sounds and styles on Gravy, showcasing their artistic influences and eagerness to push boundaries. In addition, with a nod to the renowned style of Al Green, they have created a thrilling and revitalizing work that is sure to captivate listeners.
