Yebba: Tiny Desk (Home) Concert

The Tiny Desk is working from home for the foreseeable future. Introducing NPR Music's Tiny Desk (home) concerts, bringing you performances from across the country and the world. It's the same spirit - stripped-down sets, an intimate setting - just a different space.
Bobby Carter | September 8, 2021
As the camera slowly rises to the room, we see Yebba in the center of a circle, complete with band members, background singers and a string quartet. The room is part of Electric Lady Studios, where her debut album, Dawn, was recorded. The album bears the name of Yebba's mother, whom she tragically lost in 2016, and its songs find the Memphis native delving inward to process it all.
The singer is a bit of a live wire, rarely giving the same performance twice, and that's on display during most of this Tiny Desk (home) concert. The songs differ slightly or not so little compared to the studio sessions from Dawn, especially on the swelling interpretation of the lead single, "Distance." In between each song, Yebba shares unfocused and playful banter that just feels like she's family, and that feeling persists throughout this entire set, right down to the eye contact she shares with keyboardist and co-writer James Francies when speaking candidly about the final song, "How Many Years."
This Tiny Desk concert has been in the works since the spring of 2020, when the album was completed but shelved until Yebba (and the rest of the world) was in a better place. It was worth the wait.
SET LIST
"Stand"
"Distance"
"All I Ever Wanted"
"How Many Years"
MUSICIANS
Yebba: vocals
James Francies: keys
Burniss Travis: bass
Stro Elliot: MPC drums
Charles Myers: guitar
Niya Norwood: vocals
Schadrack Pierre: vocals
Brandon Pain: vocals
Marta Bagratuni: cello
Francesca Dardani: violin
Sulamit Gorski: violin
Nicole Wright: viola
CREDITS
Producer: Abbey Smith
Video: Andy Swartz, Bo Zhang, Ina Ubaite
Audio: Gosha Usov, Brandon Bost
Assistant Engineers: John Muller, Daniel Perez
Gaffer: AJ Holden
Key Grip: Hunter Herrick
"A" Camera Operator: Andy Poland
1st Assistant Camera: Rob Ko
"B" Camera Operator: Alan Jensen
Dolly Grip: Tom Sarvello
Electric: Greg Deseve
Production Assistant: Styven Jeune
Management: Ross Michaels, David Lai, Ina Ubaite
TINY DESK TEAM
Producer: Bobby Carter
Video Producer: Maia Stern
Audio Mastering: Josh Rogosin
Tiny Production Team: Bob Boilen, Kara Frame, Gabrielle Pierre
Executive Producer: Keith Jenkins
Senior VP, Programming: Anya Grundmann
#nprmusic #tinydesk #yebba

[@nprmusic]

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[@JustJedaiah]

Sucks this is only open to people in the US.

[@inemenime5451]

Right!!

[@MsShondaRocc]

Can y’all please release this on all platforms? PLEASE! 🙏🏽

[@ivory2594]

PETITION TO TINY DESK TO PUT THIS IN SPOTIFY I CAN'T STOP LISTENING TO THIS

[@54studioproductions]

This!!!!

[@surprisemadula4391]

TODAY!

[@vitoriaraminhos8487]

YES! Where do I sign?

[@CamilleRobinson227]

RIGHT!!!

[@isabellaosei5538]

Forreal!!

[@jacobcollier]

AHHH!!!!! Nobody else on the planet can do it like this. We love you Yebba ❤️

[@ebbur1000]

JACERBB??

[@tshepangphawe516]

for real! she's special!

[@maiagustavo]

Please, PLEASE, collab!

[@yebbitesmith4765]

That’s what IM SAYING 😭🙌

[@starchild5518]

NO WE LOVE YALL!!!

[@ladiesnight2511]

Who’s here in 2024?!! I come back here every couple months, will never get over this!

[@1859ddd]

I wish so deeply that she would produce more. She is a talent that will never get old. I listen to Yebba at least a couple times throughout my week for the past five years. Just scratches an itch for me.

[@Astrapionte]

Same. It’s just immaculate.

[@basberends332]

Here we are again. Incredible ❤

[@SelulekoMthembu-ov2jx]

❤

[@sheldonjohnson6117]

Here 🖐🏾 😂. Love Yebba and her accuracy, and sense of melody!! Also... These b(L)ackup singers are otherworldly!

[@FyahAlex]

Her backup singers are effin' INCREDIBLE!!

[@justicgilliam]

Yep. Maybe better than her.

[@vincere13]

@@justicgilliam Yebba herself started to shine as a backup singer, so I believe she tries to give reach to other talented individuals so they can fly solo just like she did.

[@siobhanbeauts]

Black excellence in our voices

[@Ravon_Regular]

@@justicgilliam that’s a stretch but there good😂😂

[@adriennesmith8757]

I just understand why she doesn’t sing like this on her album

[@chidilove8394]

The backup singers understood the assignment. Yebba’s voice is incredible as always. What a gift.

[@linneaoni452]

Have you ever seen the video when her backup singers wasn’t on point 😫😬!!! She stopped the show and gave lessons! This tiny desk they DEFINITELY understand the assignment

[@gigi4love990]

@@linneaoni452 that was literally what I was thinking when I watched this the first time 😭 these vocalists had it all the way together!

[@louisea4920]

Literally!!! The back up singers matched her energy. Just beautiful

[@TheresSergio]

Clearly !!! I was impressed !

[@chidilove8394]

@@linneaoni452 Yes!

[@KevOnStage]

I have waited for this moment for a long time. Of course she did NOT disappoint!!!

[@nappyscience]

ALBUM ON FRIDAY, CUH!

[@KevOnStage]

@@nappyscience I'm already KNOWING!!!

[@alissaanderson7685]

Right? Gahhhh I die!!! she came through

[@JonTorrence]

LAWD, the feel and the CONTROL 😤👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@_thatgirlreads509]

!!!!

[@jamielautner405]

2 years later and I’m still BEGGING this tiny desk be put on Spotify. PLEASE NPR!!!

[@cody5701]

Why does her label not understand that we want a Live album

[@83ttaylor]

‼️

[@crystalm2057]

she has one lol "Live at Electric Lady"

[@cody5701]

@@crystalm2057 album not a studio session

[@shakiel6866]

her studio versions are literally masterpieces but her live is actually another level

[@leahvolz6524]

Amen. Every recorded some I’ve heard from her is 10/10 but these live versions are always 100/10. Perfection.

[@miguelber1997]

Yebba and Jazmine Sullivan have this godly quality about their voices. They move through and within the music. Heavenly.

[@solarpunkdream]

yaaaaaaaas

[@alexisweaver2211]

I would die if they collaborated and their angel voices would send me to heaven!

[@eb8532]

Let’s be clear… Jazmine Sullivan is the blueprint, but Yebba does her thing!

[@eb8532]

The way she sung “DISTANCE” is sending me to the moon!

[@teekxoxo]

i was just saying this

[@i6olbj]

NPR: “Where’s the sound engineer?” Yebba: “I’m here”

[@pete3816]

How so? I see her adjusting her in-ear monitor mix. Nothing else.

[@jay.9534]

@@pete3816 it was literally just a joke..

[@i6olbj]

@@jay.9534 correct 😀

[@user-ur2wd8du4z]

@@pete3816 yikes.. you must be fun at parties

[@rhondarosoboro7874]

Periodt!!!

[@alvarobastos]

ADVISORY: This video contains exceptional arrangements and vocals... Be prepared

[@ok2bsexa]

Lmbo…when I saw the word ADVISORY I IMMEDIATELY though…wow it’s explicit content in this video😮😂…I WASN’T PREPARED…

[@susanmakala]

the background singers are flawless

[@mermaidbabe2122]

Exactly ❤

[@Str82Tay222]

Yebba is flawless

[@drewoliviatillman3008]

Background singers are AMAZING!!!! ❤

[@cocomo3141]

They are giving!!!

[@mikeadasko8350]

Unreal. It’s all so sumptuous

[@rerezi]

Yebba’s on tiny desk concert? What a time to be alive!!

[@JoeCola]

Yebba def fits the bill for tiny desk. It was just a matter of when. Seems right on time though.

[@sncumesihlejele1788]

Indeed!

[@roderickrogers7115]

Yes yes yes!

[@nigel1412]

What he do it!!!!

[@user-pk1fo8mg5q]

That‘s what I’m saying!

[@alissaloya8721]

I used to listen to this on repeat when I was living in my car with my husband while i was 6 months pregnant. It used to calm me and heal me. I would sing it to my daughter in my belly... now she is 3 months old and we are moving to our own house in Maine. What a blessing.

[@g.u5865]

I’m so happy for you that situation changed, I can only imagine how hard it must have been🥺. God bless your family

[@nathanielbeverly1967]

Congratulations

[@TRSTNHM420]

Good bless you ! I pray all is well 🙏🏾

[@EvolationsSODMG]

The world is yours

[@mensahajanaku3213]

gotcha

[@harper24]

If this session was a cassette tape it would’ve worn out long ago. I’ve come back to this too many times to count. Absolute Perfection!

[@EmmaCOW93]

I love how she blends a sound between country, jazz, and r&b!

[@Karma-iz4ir]

Yes. Amazing. ❤🙌

[@neshanesh257]

Yes!!!

[@nataliecovers__]

❤❤

[@nataliecovers__]

Are there some folk music sounds in there too?

[@EmmaCOW93]

@@nataliecovers__ oh yeah!

[@kiac.4716]

This woman’s voice is incredible and Background vocals are doing what needs to be done!!!

[@tiffanystaten3911]

They absolutely understood the assignment

[@TheBaba1920]

One of those rare moments when the background vocalists are on the same level. It’s just such a beautiful blend. Everybody is so AMAZING!!

[@sherayneee7440]

OKAY CAUSE BACKGROUND VOCALISTS ARE EATING

[@Riyad_Emanuel]

CORRECT!!!

[@nickw7693]

Everyone here absolutely killed it 🙏🏼

[@authorkristinmosley4472]

I feel like the background singers need their own Tiny Desk concert lol

[@corbelius6]

Totally agree 100%

[@QDIESEL376]

EXACTLY

[@ccss6940]

Yessss! All of them together make this one of the best live performances I’ve ever heard. Just deep cut beautiful voices and music.

[@authorkristinmosley4472]

@@ccss6940 yes!!!

[@PUREisthename]

Their blend is impeccable!!

[@BiBlackCar1]

Can we give the background singers in the musicians a hand they are killing it

[@emilyklasing]

They are absolutely flawless for real

[@cedricanderson2609]

I agree!

[@jerrodcardwell1887]

I've got a confession. I'm a regular 55 year old dude but I weep uncontrollably listing to Yebba. Not the story but she hits such literally divine sounds I can't take it. The beauty overwhelms me. No other singer has ever done this. I have to slyly dry my eyes when people come in the room.

[@juanitasimmons3592]

❤ it’s easy to weep. Her voice is angelic it’s painfully beautiful

[@purplepheasant4776]

No other, not true. She is channeling Aretha, the Clark Sisters, Sly and the Family, tons of black masterclass singers. It's sad that ppl only acknowledge this style of singing when white ppl do it rather than the superior artists it's taken from. She is very talented. Goapele is another amazing black artist that's performing like this at a higher level.

[@IAmContemporary]

@@purplepheasant4776I think he meant that no other singer has brought him to tears like this, not that no one has ever sung like this.

[@trevorbrabant206]

Me too man….. me tooo.

[@KenKlaver]

You’re not alone ❤

[@danieljohnson856]

Yebba's vocals are ethereal as usual, but can we talk about the band and the background vocalists😭😭😭😭🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@nickramsey9362]

Those vocalists compliment her perfectly! And that's some talent to try and support!

[@reasonable12000]

Prolly the best BGV’s I’ve heard in years!

[@kshillingford4921]

Yeah the supporting vocalists are top notch (but that's to be expected at this point).

[@jenbee4646]

YES SIR!!!! They did not come to play with folks! Assignment understood, emotions snatched…pardon me if I clutch my imaginary pearls❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@Martiethaacloud]

She came a long way from telling the bgv straight up y’all not singing the song for my momma right to these professional bgv

[@susanberkery235]

Have to add - the backup singers are mind-blowingly good. I think there are few things more beautiful than human voices in perfect harmony.

[@lucretiabagley2494]

Backup singers are ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@jermainejr11]

RIGHT!!!!! ❤️‍🔥

[@jamiparrish8806]

AGREED!!!! I kept wanting to see more of them

[@Superdelphinus]

I think one thing more beautiful is human voices very slightly out of harmony with each other.

[@Mercurychyld1]

YES Girl! Was thinking that very thing about the background vocalists. Amazing!

[@lunarmiso6265]

I kind of love how under the radar she is... She is so talented and chooses to just make music and isn't involved in the whole "fame" thing.. She is the definition of an Artist !

[@sebsings]

I agree!

[@newguyntown]

I come back again and again. Thank you Yebba. Thank you incredible musicians. Thank you background vocalists. Y’all made moment . So much healing in this. I miss you mami 6/18/18

[@jerrybee566]

She's literally sitting relaxed and hitting those notes like they're nothing. Comes so easy to her. What an incredible talent. Glad she's getting more recognition. Hope it stays that way for a very long time. She's got it. 🔥

[@nizzaz]

It is so mesmerizing to watch her work that mixture of casual and control. She is amazingly expressive.

[@ggk9828]

Practice! The pros always put in the hours of practice!

[@TAMISHA710]

Always

[@sebespringmusic]

Like!!!!

[@kraverkidd]

@@ggk9828 r are lll final ar

[@samanthamabunda5323]

Am I the only crazy person that plays this daily 🥺😭 like I can't get enough of it

[@BrandonRogersLA]

You are not alone.

[@nomadicmusic3558]

🙋🏾‍♂️ multiple times a day 🤝

[@xscwens4840]

You're not alone

[@83ttaylor]

🙋🏾‍♀️

[@shenekiawalker82]

Nope this is my daily commute music.

[@f0rgiven288]

I'm actually kind of upset that I love the tiny desk version of these songs better than the album versions, especially How Many Years

[@joemg82]

Her background singers have those harmonies on lock. All the musicians she works with are top notch.

[@courtneygolden2014]

Her ability to switch tones and registers is UNMATCHED ‼️

[@Eastpointe]

She sings and sounds like old school black R&B singers and folk singers from the 70s and early 80s. Refreshing for this generation though because the industry doesn’t allow and have true artistry front and center anymore like many years before.

[@imvdat3698]

Guys her album “Dawn” is coming out this Friday so remember to stream and support!!!!

[@ohmygay2323]

I MEAN OFCOURSE

[@SomeOneSeen]

For sure!!!

[@tajmacameron1693]

Absolutely!!

[@LJ-LJ]

💯💯💯

[@kawaiipotatolewis9507]

cant wait!!!

[@Curly.Leigh23]

I hope y’all listened with headphones because this was beautifully engineered 🤯

[@carmenrojas4469]

I will next time she’s incredible

[@danielwatson7713]

You weren’t lying

[@LA-cm9uo]

Her lyrics got me missing someone I never met

[@twilightjoi]

Lol not her bodying tf out of “Distance” and then humbly and lightheartedly saying “I think I’m happy with how that came out..” lol 🔥🔥🔥 she is masterful and definitely a perfectionist I’m sure 🥰🥰🥰

[@virginia4766]

And then seemed so nervous! She killed it

[@johanne7]

Her live performances are consistently miles better than their recordings. Baby girl literally has to hold back her power on her album. A whole queen!!

[@Richard-lh3te]

The recordings don’t do her justice. We need a live album

[@ITevangelist]

Word. Yebba unplugged.

[@christydean3552]

Absolutely agree. She can range far afield and it is beautiful. The recordings seem stifled a bit.

[@seapeajones]

Just listened to the album and can't agree more. Her live *destroys* the studio version.

[@mickjones6369]

best vocalist i have heard in a long time .....

[@andreinaromero8282]

Minutes 5:33 to 9:44 of this Tiny Desk are the best minutes on all of KZbin, I'm sorry, this is a fact. Yebba's performance of Distance is a singing masterclass in all respects; I can't get over the perfection of her back and forth with the backing singers and their incredible control, all on top of the amazing warmth and groove of the band. It's unforgettable.

[@justicgilliam]

I've heard this concert before. Maybe I will listen again?

[@brandonsmith5194]

Agreed. I can't even begin to get into the reasons

[@cesaraeirwin0408]

You’re doing gods work!! I love this song ❤

[@BILLUPS811]

The first 5:32 did that. It was the perfect song to open with.

[@Shelincali9]

Gurl rewind and rewind lol

[@girlinterrupted2625]

I love the graininess in her higher register. It’s magical. Her background vocals are also so good👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@ToxicEyes1010]

Ok Yebba is undeniably amazing, but can we just take a moment to appreciate the backup singers who absolutely slayed a four person run on the world gold @ 3:19?

[@nicktomato7]

I knowwwww They’re so on point and that run is like, absurdly long - you think it’s over when there’s still like 3 more bars

[@teresadavis6996]

Back up is killin' it!

[@natibelfortunato6879]

BRUH i was saying the same thing

[@camp27campbell39]

Bgvs reminds me of old Fred Hammond bgvs riffs n runs 🤷🏿‍♂️🙌🏿🔥❤️

[@camarojai6832]

Right!!!!!!! These back ground singers are EVERYTHING

[@ojdidit84]

Interviewer: So what genre does your music fall under? Yebba: Yes

[@emmathepaperquiller4263]

😂

[@normaburnett6220]

💯

[@traceyhardiman6781]

That is the perfect answer. She falls under all of them!!!

[@a-bittersweet-tragedy0203]

Seriously. I’ve been asking everyone this and I always get different answers

[@rmoultonrmoulton145]

If you had to pick one wouldn't it be jazz...ish, lol? I just hear a lot of jazz-style in how she sings and the arrangements are often jazz-style for sure. But I do get your overall point...it's a blend of a lot. Marcus King is another artist where you get pretty confused about what genre he's doing.

[@damayantifornosmoncho7709]

Yebba should get the level of recognition and appreciation of Adele

[@EdiDrums]

Yebba far surpasses Adele, in my opinion.

[@harryollett8842]

Genuinely think yebba might just be the best singer I've ever heard! The first song in this is phenomenal

[@nibyafternight1983]

She hasn't even released an album or an EP and she already have a Tiny Desk. Iconic

[@bennyjones1502]

Album coming out this Friday, that's why! This is her material from her upcoming album

[@isabellezachary9917]

And a Grammy! She’s amazing

[@domotemujin7780]

@@isabellezachary9917 that part! GOAT tingz 😌

[@acharich]

🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀

[@darabreudelarosa3169]

Yebba is a talent. She is in a league of her own. A singer’s singer. She sings circles around almost anyone.

[@joshuawilliams7536]

preach now !!!

[@Bee4Reel]

I would love to hear tori Kelly cover some of her songs 👀

[@darabreudelarosa3169]

@@Bee4Reel I would love Jazmine Sullivan to collab with her

[@KhanhNguyen-lejo]

@@Bee4Reel Tori did a cover of Evergreen, you def should search for it. She love Yebba so much.

[@bstsdodgy]

around everyone! sis' range is unbelievable

[@kudashian8639]

This tiny desk has me in a chokehold y'all 😭😭 The vibes are too immaculate

[@Cr4z33_YT]

Sound engineers are at God level when working for Tiny Desk recording sessions! 🙌🏼

[@duatedross3663]

trueeee

[@bibooufranck9643]

CAN WE TALK ABOUT THE AMAZINGNESS OF THESE BACKGROUND SINGERS OMGGGGG?!

[@sullivan2339]

Utterly Unreal-

[@Ms8Sincere]

Incredible Talent

[@acharich]

🔥💣

[@Tempest87]

They are perfect.

[@JoeCola]

Yebba has the vocal tones and rifts of a legend. She can sing any genre with that voice but it’s only fitting she would sing soul music because she’s full of it. This performance is easily one for the books.

[@pardontheplay]

Truly Wonderful. A+ LivMiXxImVIl

[@shinshiia]

2 years later and I keep coming back erryday and will forever until I download it and have implanted into my brain

[@eadmproductions4691]

The Background singers have an angelic harmony sound ….as a singer this is a very hard and unique blend ….the last time we hard any thing this close was in the 80 and 90 ….today singers don’t have this type of blend …this is not Commerical ….it’s pure soul singing ❤❤❤❤

[@musiclover88]

Yebba's voice is phenomenal, but can we talk about those BG vocals for a moment. Their harmony was just incredible. The combination of Yebba and the BG vocals was stunning! Please bring these wonderful BGV's with you on tour. Can't wait to see her live. A dream come true really!

[@louisea4920]

Second this

[@ashalapps6875]

Yes!!

[@darellduncan5464]

Get this to be top comment pleaseeeeee!! He definitely is not wrong and we would all like to see this!!!

[@ChachkaGirl7411]

Yyyyaaasss!! 🔥🔥

[@xman2g1]

This is the best group of BGV’s she has ever had! So happy bcuz it’s her time to shine and she finally has the right core to background her. 🎤

[@loginn19]

Lawd, this Tiny Desk won’t let me go. I can’t stop listening.

[@LAKEshax]

Same here!

[@kbb19622]

Same here!

[@courtneygruber7219]

Same! I think I turn it on and run through it at least twice in the morning on the way to work.

[@simplychaos1]

Same

[@erinsnell5823]

i listen to this everyday 🤣

[@stephenwood6585]

Her live performances seem better. It's like something is lost when the tracks are recorded for the album. She's just pure raw talent, amazing!!

[@jonpjames]

These songs are so very beautiful, and I much prefer this stripped-down sound. Harmonic surprises, and perfect match of lyrics and melody. And the skill of everybody in that room is through the roof. Just amazing, and I keep on coming back to this one. Tears every time.

[@millennialbuddhism2619]

same same same. I just find myself smiling and tears falling down myself by how in sync they all are. Living in that pocket.

[@justicgilliam]

Me too. But NOT me too. Slim

[@danielpflug]

every single time.

[@Bbrock1984]

You hit the hammer on the nail sir!!! ❤

[@ThatsSoRaechel]

Stand 00:10 Distance 5:25 All I Ever Wanted 10:18 Intro to How Many Years 14:10 How Many Years 14:42 This is one of my 2 favorite Tiny Desks of all time!!! How Many Years especially resonates with me. I lost my daughter 9 years ago, and most of the time, it feels like I'll never be okay.

[@thriving4divination506]

Thank you , Your daughter is your angel and she’s always with you. Asè 🙏🏾💯🧿

[@GangsterNerd1]

Who’s your favorite?

[@ThatsSoRaechel]

@@GangsterNerd1 it depends on the day. Either How Many Years or All I Ever Wanted..what's your favorite?

[@awetsekelapile682]

love and light to you❤️

[@mrgboxx]

Sorry for your loss. What's the other fav Tiny desk? Mine is Erykah Badu's, (aside from Yebba.)

[@thelifeofpriz]

Musical Director: How many impossible heavenly chords do you want? Yebba: Yes.

[@HadyMambo]

I come here everytime I need to re-connect with myself..! This is not just a tiny desk concert, it is a live healing!

[@AliciaRosa-sm3ks]

Amen 🙏🏽

[@jamieh2889]

Love this comment

[@michaelmorrisson7730]

Amen!

[@shannongarcia6303]

Agreed! I am back again😊

[@blackqueen55]

My feelings exactly.

[@mijit101]

Yebba is amazing… but those background singers JESUS CHRIST! They were flawless! Like angels singing !

[@Ugo6sp]

If she doesn’t win a grammy or something I want a revolution.

[@kapriesesmythe1935]

She has already...! Frfr.

[@ragazzopigro97]

@@kapriesesmythe1935 she deserves another one for the album of course

[@noorieiversen]

The Album is nominated in one of the more obscure categories. But at least she's on the list. And she is also nominated with Lucky Daye and her feature.

[@user-ky3pd6dk9i]

Burn it all down.

[@barbiefunkyfaceb]

I like her vocal style alot better than Adele sound, MATTERS PEOPLE PEACE&LOVE

[@MakaykayLAMB]

Can we talk about her articulation tho? I can hear every single word she singing. Also, HOW IS THE LIVE VERSION A BILLION TIMES BETTER THAN THE ALBUM VERSION? Lawd.

[@heatherdyme87]

its so complex yet its lile butter!! one of the greatest artist of this time!!

[@chiffoncurtis8073]

She reminds me of brandy

[@MakaykayLAMB]

@@chiffoncurtis8073 with the effortless runs? 100%. She reminds me of Tori Kelly and how they just open their mouths and it’s like heaven. Wooh. All three just naturally SANG DOWN. it’s almost unbelievable.

[@chiffoncurtis8073]

@@MakaykayLAMB effortlesssssss. I Ccouldnt agree more! ❤️

[@lebogangmametja1890]

It hurts me so much that the album version is not as good as the live 😭😭

[@worldcitizen9202]

This version of Stand is a masterpiece. Does not compare to the album which in itself was brilliant. But this one ..... phenomenal !

[@morelifeking2973]

Today is this first day I’ve ever heard of Yebba…..and wow I am so blessed to have done so. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🙏🏾

[@Asabaey]

This version of Stand should have been used on the album. It’s beautiful

[@Lindzer85]

Agreed. Amazing!!

[@MellyHhhhh]

Totally agree - I've been ruined by this version unfortunately - just love the backing vocals used here, such a great mix

[@authorkristinmosley4472]

Agree!!!!!

[@teekxoxo]

DELUX DELUX

[@joekerr8584]

i disagree, this was a really great performance but the one on the album fit the body of work, this is a standalone. a deluxe bonus track but not a replacement.

[@JzonAzari]

This was a moment in the making. Glad she’s center stage for the world to see.

[@user-ur2wd8du4z]

but are they even listening? they listening to Drake ..oh wait.. she is there too.. loool

[@bencarter3677]

Yeah, but at the same time don't you want to keep her secret? I don't want the world to spoil it.

[@apparently2211]

SO BELATED! and beyond deserving.

[@skaterzrule4]

@@bencarter3677 the world cannot spoil what is this magnificent. Art is meant to be shared. Don’t be that person.

[@chantalmaxie9453]

@@user-ur2wd8du4z lol Oooo

[@carolyn_bo_barolyn]

These songs, this performance saved me a year ago during deep postpartum depression and anxiety. There were days when I didn’t know if I would make it out alive. Now I am listening to them in my car with my daughter sleeping in the back seat and I thank God & Yebba & everyone else for bringing such light during my darkest hour.

[@Dr.JudeAEMasonMD]

G-d bless you. I have been there. Thank goodness you found a way up and through.

[@tomluvsshe]

Many blessings to you

[@jaymic6757]

The way I’ve visited this video at least once a week since it came out.

[@HTKennedymusic]

This is one of those legendary NPR Tiny Desk Performances like H.E.R, Jazmine Sullivan, Anderson Paak and many other highly watched and anticipated performances.

[@LosAnggraito]

best Tiny Desk is still Tank and the Bangas imo

[@HTKennedymusic]

@@LosAnggraito that’s definitely a really good one, made me go see them live. They very talented performers!

[@normaburnett6220]

@@LosAnggraito Yasss!!!!🙌🏽

[@normaburnett6220]

💯

[@sublimedummie420]

Don't forget Eryka Badu's!!!!!

[@gbattle]

Yebba is this generation’s Eva Cassidy. Incredibly rare talent who, by virtue of her tone and technique, can transcend genres with no loss of feeling or authenticity. Yes, it’s soulful, but it is also folk, country and roots based. I hope she continues down this path of discovery, further establishing her distinct voice in today’s musical landscape.

[@DD-30fvr]

That is a spot on assessment!

[@fatimasakarya4930]

perfect way to describe her gift and the way she's growing and evolving and trying different genres. I LOVE it all. Her voice is a divine gift. The comparison with Eva Cassidy is really on point. I hadn't thought about her, but you're absolutely right. For me, it's like Joni Mitchell and Mary J. Blige had a love child! :-)

[@chachimelendez8061]

....you mean Shawn Cassidy...

[@ayeaye2110]

Loved this comment and completely agree!!

[@CassieJazz96]

I definitely agree with this.

[@lilou_depeindraydambelle]

How is even possible to harmonize runs like that, so perfectly ...

[@mollymaribe]

This is my favorite NPR tiny desk concert!!!!

[@PennyPirate443]

This and Tank and the Bangers

[@sevon751]

I hope that Yebba knows that she is deserving of all the love , all the accolades , and all the opportunities she has coming her way. I hope She never doubts her worthiness. Her gift is beyond this world & I’m glad I’m alive to witness it.

[@austinporn7905]

🥺 couldn’t have said it any better!!

[@pieterhaegeman3538]

Lovely :)

[@anissat-tech]

All of this! And I hope above all else, she TAKES HER TIME with her gifts. This 4 year slow simmer has allowed her to release PERFECTION on HER TERMS.

[@MontaNorth]

Yebba is one of the few artists, like Tori Kelly and Beyonce, that makes you feel like you owe her something when she shares her voice with you. Truly talented and gifted. Thank you, Yebba

[@rorion4228]

“Makes you feel like you owe her something” IM SCREAMING

[@davelamp2848]

OMG THIS IS WHAT IVE BEEN SAYING THAT FIRST MY MIND PERFORMANCE I HONESTLY WOULD NOT FEEL RIGHT IF I DIDN'T GO AND GIVE HER MONEY FOR HONOURING ME WITH JUST BEING IN THE AUDIENCE FOR THAT MASTERPIECE

[@chyasmin]

This is exactly what I feel when I heard Yebba for the first time. I came across her "My Mind" performance and that moment, I cried with her even to this day wherever I listen to the song. Such a powerful voice with deep emotions, so beautiful yet heartbreaking.

[@prestond]

Agreed 100%!! Jazmine Sullivan too

[@katiebeth6301]

She gives me Mary J vibes too - the emotion at times is so powerful

[@rickysaintlaurent]

3 MONTHS LATER AND I STILL LISTEN TO THIS RELIGIOUSLY

[@RhondaHubbard-hc8zy]

Her her band and background singers are amazing im 50 yrs old and have never in my days heard anyone so immaculate, untouchable, graceful unbelievably OnPoint i think im in love with her and im a female lol

[@SymphaniSoto]

Is anyone else crying??????? Like wow the emotions 🥲

[@jefvarnadore2267]

✋🏼me

[@thandokuhlegumede]

Literally yes because WOW

[@abigailbagley5825]

Yup,😭

[@slay_sparkle]

Ya. The last song... 😭

[@yusefseevers1041]

WEEEPING OKAY

[@HeartRawArt]

Literally theeeeee Best backing vocals I have EVER HEARD YES LORD !!!

[@travonwilliams5505]

Facts

[@ashalapps6875]

Yes!!

[@KeepItReal1]

There have only been a few back up singers on Tiny Desk that were beyond excellence. These back up singers are among the top 3, Jasmine Sullivan back up singers, too.

[@tarafountain465]

My therapy session...😢😢 Rip my late hubby Alex...ughhh miss my true best friend

[@godiskind7716]

[@eileen8433]

🌷

[@rahrahforte]

The background!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🤯🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@bkizzle290]

She has one of the best voices in the industry and she’s definitely a legend in the making ❤️ Give this woman credit where it’s due 😤❤️ ALSO THE BACKGROUND VOCALISTS!!!

[@pardontheplay]

Truly wonderful. I'm disappointed if more don't see this sometimes. Lovely Always Dear

[@cjrandolph411]

The musical arrangements are soooooo on point. Its like Bob Ross painting...when you think its done in its beauty more gets added and its just gets better.

[@yvonnemarie3261]

Let's not just chalk it up to being gifted and talented... She has fine-tuned her vocal instrument and her musical ear in order to acquire innumerous SKILLZ! In order to have so much in her toolbox (that we interpret as magical), she had to: 1. discover what she could do with her voice 2. teach herself how to do it 3. practice it 4. perfect it 5. know it so well that she can pull it out of her pocket at ANY moment! That is what we call SKILLZ as a result of hard work.

[@carlislesienes7900]

YEEES!!!!!!

[@Melrosegirl16]

Omg yessssss! Every time I hear her, I think about all the work I just KNOW she’s put into being as amazing as she is now!

[@thatusername126]

....this.....this was an experience...thank you..

[@boobandagang5628]

I hear you but even with all that you can legit hear her soul

[@boobandagang5628]

She has a gift

[@Nick_a_ra_gua]

I listen to this d@mn near everyday & something told me to tap in today & come to find out it’s the 2 year anniversary since this came out 🥵🙌🏾🫶🏾

[@1859ddd]

I empathize with Abigail (Yebba) in losing a loved one to suicide. It changes you at a core, fundamental level. I appreciate her music so much and cannot thank her enough. Truly her and her music have unknowingly helped me through some seriously dark times since my own loss. Yebba's music is part of what saved me. I know you will never see this and that is okay, but thank you Abigail. You are a talent that deserves all the fame and praise in the world.

[@eileen8433]

so sorry for your loss,,,,glad this music provides some rest for you

[@RobChappers]

In all my years of listening to music… this is possibly the most perfect performance in synergy with incredible writing… listening to this is almost an experience that I have to “Get over”… I’m a musician, but when I listen to this I become a listener, something that rarely happens to me - utterly magical, a magical cure for every pain you didn’t know you had locked away. Thank you

[@elliefigo]

thanks Rob for taking the lead in paying tribute to a fellow musician, to a work and a word that transcends all our lives. appreciate your craft Sir, and Yebba's

[@powitskim]

I love this comment so much, and I love this for you. musicians don’t often get the experience of an average listener because of their ear being so acute to sound. I just know watching this Yebba is special and you put it into great words here. the performance is absolutely perfect.

[@jerseybultaoreune6107]

Agreed - this is an entire five-course meal at a Michelin star restaurant for one's ears... The chord progression... 🤯 The choices!!! 🤯 I don't know if it's the composition or the execution that shook me more - probably both... I cannot stop singing!!! "We don't have to run so far..." * runs past all of us * "Sending my love all over you" - yes please and thank you. 🎶

[@laubowiebass]

What a beautiful comment . I can agree with you too.

[@kevinthomas2226]

whew! you really said it bc thats EXACTLY how i felt and goodluck getting over her lol shes addicting. omg i love her❤️

[@internetathi]

I'm in my darkest hour of my adult life, but the words of the first song, Stand, really pull me towards myself and that's why this concert will always be close to my heart.

[@chelseap8429]

You WILL pull through it!!

[@curlykeys8261]

You’ve got this my friend

[@joshqualls1108]

i feel the exact same at the moment, and have had this on repeat for the last 3 days. just a reminder that there is a bunch of people struggling with you and we’ll all pull out together. x

[@shabbyhouse]

🌏🎼💓

[@normaburnett6220]

I immediately felt moved to tears upon reading your words. I am praying that all things work together for your good in short other. I pray you feel the Sun's/Son's rays on your skin and feel your load lighten. ❤

[@Shabbi2]

This is the best version of "Stand" I have ever heard. Please, please, please release this as a streamable session

[@shannonbentley70]

Thank you Yebba for getting my husband through a deep cleaning at the dentist! He is very afraid of needles, and your voice helped to calm him.

[@yebbitesmith4765]

“She is your singers favourite singer” - Annie Mac

[@dailyjerk]

Agreed girl 🙏🏿🙏🏿❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩

[@antpeters]

Her interlude on Drake's album SLAPPED! I guess that was most people's introduction to her but some of us knew her from way back ;)

[@007BlackCanary]

Yeah a lot of us been knew but that interlude really helped raise her profile a lot more! I’m excited for her!

[@jonathanpurham1853]

LISTEN THEY WASNT WITH US! Ive been a fan for YEAAARRRRSSS!!!!!!

[@TracyDi]

WAAAAY back singing in the stairwell.

[@aliaa9773]

This is going to sound mean, but Yebba being on his album boosts HIS cred…and he knows it. They aren’t even close to being in the same league. Yebba’s in a league of her own❤️.

[@acharich]

Man like TP.. 💣

[@simonhodgetts6530]

Only just discovered Yebba - and I’m hooked! What an amazing voice, great songwriting, and those backing singers!! Fantastic. Some comments are asking why we don’t hear Yebba’s music in the mainstream - we don’t want it there, it’s too special to share!

[@nastyrobmiddleearthproduct9027]

I hope that you've watched "My Mind" live, which is the only way YEBBA should be. Her voice in that performance always gets my eyes teared up.

[@kimberlytaylor7869]

Hooked.....my sister put me on and I can't turn her off

[@darylharvey2865]

Indeed... Keep it underground where it's safe and sound.

[@TheLarece]

Back here again for the 5 millionth time.

[@cedricfundi240]

I don't believe this music is real. Those background vocals are out of this world. Wow... this is excellency in action. ..

[@sullivan2339]

Yes! That is my reaction as well. This cannot be real!

[@internetathi]

This Tiny Desk is up there with Jazmine Sullivan's. A prepared, technincal vocalist with a great team behind her. Love to see Yebba getting all the credit she darn deserves!

[@williamrw2389]

I literally said the same thing! Tone, pitch and control!

[@keithvinson9917]

Okay!!! Bc Jazmine did that and yebba is giving me the same vibes. Totally agree

[@ezraneal9732]

literally!! i have both tiny desks bookmarked on my laptop as well as jazmines "our story to tell" HBO performance haha

[@hello_04]

I feel like she takes some of her vocal placements and runs rasp from Jazmine. Jazmine created this lane

[@williamrw2389]

@@hello_04 most definitely!!

[@kevrotherham1350]

thats how you do it. what a performer

[@ShannonBlack-mt8hj]

Yebba - hearing Your voice is like a religious experience... Goot Gawd

[@jimmylama88]

Fantasia’s soul + Jazmine’s smokiness + Tori Kelly’s ability to riff and run like melting butter - somehow it’s all packaged into one bellowing, freakishly smooth, and controlled voice. Yebba, you do what needs to be done 🙌🏻 🔥

[@shaftjudgedme3130]

Exactly description.

[@terrencemayo6926]

I totally agree

[@xochitllee24]

Yes!

[@joshuabracken1616]

The first song, Stand, is a masterpiece in the way it was performed. Simply amazing.

[@jsnwardell39]

Listen!!! Its Magical!

[@hgeirises6423]

My lord, the backup singerssssss

[@Ms-lb7lb]

I come here often. It’s my safe space.

[@blobblibblab]

She and Jazmine Sullivan have really been the ones getting me through 2021

[@VixenDiaries]

I watched this Tiny Desk over & over again! Baby this acoustic version of Distance took me up through there!!!! I didn’t even know I needed this! This is probably my favorite Tiny Desk concert so far!!! But we need an acoustic version of the album!!!

[@NubianOne]

I absolutely agree. She needs a live album for sure.

[@spw0003]

Come on now!!!! To be in that room would've been a truly spiritual experience, right!!!! 🙌🏾😇🙌🏾

[@misadoola22]

I couldn't agree more! I literally can only listen to the acoustic version of Distance now. I'm hooked!

[@ashalapps6875]

Agreed! I listen to this every day

[@sjordan1195]

All I can say is bruh …Distance left me speechless

[@dreaj_period]

This live is everything…. I can’t even listen to these songs regularly now. Stand came on my playlist and I literally was like👀👀👀 yeahhhhh they kilt that LIVE…😅 I can’t even recognize the non- live versions anymore LOL