YawnyBlew’s Yawny & Friends Vol. 1 EP Shines with Queer Anthemic Grit

(YawnyBlew / Courtesy PR)

YawnyBlew, the Bronx-born, Grammy and NME-nominated artist John Gonzalez, dropped his vibrant EP Yawny & Friends Vol. 1 on June 16, 2025, a powerful nod to Black Music Month and Pride. Known for his genre-blending rap, pop, and R&B on shows like Empire and Queer as Folk, YawnyBlew flexes his creative muscle as both artist and executive producer. The EP, a celebration of Black queer joy and community, features collaborators like Mike Brown, amir., COLDPRESSEDPAPI, SADBOYMUSIC, She’s Ryan, and Tahjere, showcasing his tight-knit creative circle and his mission to uplift marginalized voices.

The EP’s standout tracks pulse with distinct energy. ‘Shade’, a rap-pop cypher produced by Eric Watkinz, channels ‘90s hip-hop and ballroom swagger, featuring RuPaul’s Drag Race stars Aja (currently on All Stars Season 10) and Xunami Muse, alongside Je’Vel. Originally on Xunami Muse’s NDA: New Drag Age, it’s a bold, confident anthem inspired by Missy Elliott and Busta Rhymes. ‘Bitch I’m Alright’, a lo-fi R&B gem with amir., blends biting lyricism with soulful resilience, reflecting on survival with a stylish edge.

“This year I challenged myself to release something every month,” YawnyBlew said. “Yawny & Friends Vol. 1 is my way of celebrating making it to the halfway point — and uplifting my community during Pride and Black Music Month.” More than a compilation, the EP captures the sounds and stories of his world, weaving raw authenticity with club-ready beats. It’s a testament to queer resilience and creative unity, delivered with unapologetic flair.

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