Rapper and internet sensation Yung Gravy has always used nostalgic songs as samples. His song “Mr. Clean”, the track that skyrocketed him into the mainstream, samples The Chordettes’ 1954 hit “Mr. Sandman”. While expanding his music to include more original beats that don’t include well known samples, nobody can rework songs quite like him. Yung Gravy’s latest track “Betty (Get Money)” proves this: the track is built off of the chorus instrumental of Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up”. Given the track’s meme reputation (rick rolling), it was only a matter of time before Gravy incorporated it into one of his songs. In fact, myself and other fans were surprised it took this long. Yung Gravy explained in the comments of a TikTok that he had been working to clear this sample for a while, so who knows how long this banger was sitting in the vault.
It’s no surprise that if anyone was going to receive Rick Astley’s team’s blessing to use this song, it’s Yung Gravy. He adds his style and flair (or as he would probably say, his “sauce”) to an iconic sample, somehow mixing both nostalgia and groove to create the perfect concoction for a summer hit. Released on June 10th after sharing snippets of the track on social media, the song is already almost at a million streams on Spotify. And honestly, I’m probably responsible for at least a hundred of those streams. Who can resist that chorus?!
Along with the song, Yung Gravy released a music video (watch here) that features several different shots of Yung Gravy singing and dancing along with some dancers, a chicken, and a kangaroo. In one scene he’s wearing a full length white fur coat, he’s one of those superstars who can wear anything and make it look cool. His natural charisma shines through in both the video and the song, it’s undeniable. This track is the start of a new era for Yung Gravy following a sold out North American tour and recent EP with collaborator Dillon Francis. Kicking off on such a high note, this era is surely to be one to remember.
Listen to “Betty (Get Money)” here!
