The Black Eyed Peas Return With Nostalgic, Hip Hop-Celebrating “Yesterday” (But There’s No Fergie)

Mike Wass | July 17, 2015 1:52 pm
BEP Previews New Track "Awesome"
The Black Eyed Peas previewed a studio version of "Awesome" in an NBA playoffs ad.

The Black Eyed Peas returned to the music scene today (July 17) without Fergie. If you’re still reading this post, the trio’s — Will.i.am, apl.de.ap and Taboo — new single “Yesterday” is actually a thoroughly enjoyable celebration of hip-hop that samples classic records including Onyx’s “Slam,” ODB’s “Shimmy Shimmy Ya,” N.W.A.’s “Straight Outta Compton,” Wu-Tang’s “Killa Bees,” and Beastie Boys’ “Paul Revere.” It’s nostalgic, catchy and still very much on-trend — in other words, the perfect way to celebrate the group’s 20th anniversary.

“We’re paying homage to the folks that inspired Black Eyed Peas,” will.i.am told Zane Lowe on Beats 1. That tribute continues in the accompanying music video (below), which finds the Peas recreating classic album covers and shouting out their faves. It will be interesting to see how the trio’s comeback fares without Fergie’s crossover pop appeal. With Scooter Braun signing on as their new manager and persistent rumors of CL joining the group, I’m sure they’ve got something up their sleeve. Get reacquainted with BEP below.

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