December 9, 2022 | CULTURE | By Sophia Lisco
What does Betty White have in common with Rick Astley’s smash single, “Never Gonna Give You Up?” Both inspired Matthew Hauri, colloquially known as Yung Gravy, when producing his groundbreaking single, “Betty (Get Money).” This song marks the first time in his career that a Gravy song hit the Billboard Hot 100, cementing his place in history as a hip-hop/soul/trap/parody music icon.
From humble beginnings on Soundcloud to a viral TikTok sensation, Yung Gravy has been charming people’s mothers since 2017 and, last Tuesday, he played a sold-out show in Denver.
Located in the heart of the city, The Fillmore Auditorium is about an hour and fifteen minutes’ drive from campus. On the night of Yung Gravy’s show, approximately 3,600 fans waited over 45 minutes in frigid conditions to gain entry as the lengthy line crept forward. Excited attendees dressed in giant fur coats, gold chains, ‘MILF’ merchandise, and sparkly dresses in hopes of attracting Gravy’s attention.
Inside the venue, atop a massive display, barely visible through a cloud of cannabis and tobacco smoke, sat DJ Tip. As Yung Gravy’s right-hand man, Tip is responsible for spinning tracks at every gig — his dark, waist-length hair and erratic dance moves are especially comforting for long-time Gravy fans.
First to take the stage was opening act Freddie Dread, known mainly for his viral TikTok audios. Early in his set, Dread shared a realization with the audience—that drinking at high altitude can greatly increase alcohol-related side-effects. He then proceeded to chug a can of beer after every song and his performance was henceforth accented by thunderous belches that excited and confused the already intoxicated crowd.
This marvelous night at the Fillmore was just one of the sold out stops on the Baby Gravy Tour, where Yung Gravy was accompanied by his longtime collaborator and friend, bbno$ (baby no money). The two took turns playing crowd favorites during their 90-minute set and maintained an interactive atmosphere. Lucky audience members may have caught some Froot Loops, a bottle of water, a signed Lunchable snack pack, or even a whole cookbook.
The most exciting souvenirs of the night weren’t tossed to the audience but thrown to Yung Gravy himself. Prior to the Denver show, Gravy posted a now viral TikTok announcing his next philanthropic venture.
Inspired by the record number of bras thrown on stage in Minnesota (159), he not only pledged to donate the garments to women’s shelters but also to match their monetary value in a donation to breast cancer research funds. A long-time supporter of women’s health, Yung Gravy has previously spoken out in support of reproductive rights. All proceeds brought in from a limited-edition ‘Protect Roe’ tee in 2020 were donated to Planned Parenthood.
Yung Gravy’s appreciation for women is likely reciprocated, which may provide a possible explanation for the absurdity of Gravy’s recent romantic endeavors which include Sheri Easterling (mother of TikTok’s Addison Rae) and adult film star Lisa Ann.
As Gravy confirmed these rumors early in the show, it became clear that the bra-wearers of Denver felt equally positive about Gravy— the Fillmore brassiere count barely fell short of the Minnesota record despite the 50% decrease in audience size. Both performers expressed sincere appreciation to the crowd as Gravy donned a Denver Nuggets jersey, snatching a bra from the air and insisting that the energy in the room surpassed even that of New York City’s show.
Denverites (and a few CC Tigers) were blessed with the charismatic stage presence and buttery smooth voice of Yung Gravy on Tuesday night at Baby Gravy, the Tour. Those in search of a night filled with debauchery, groovy tunes, and women over 40 should seek the womanizing yet chivalrous company of Yung Gravy and bbno$.