A: Yes, the most notable live performance was a surprise reunion at the 2015 Stellar Gospel Music Awards, where Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams performed the song together.
This article explores the story behind the song, its massive impact on lifestyle and entertainment, how it changed the trio's legacy, and the responsible ways to access the MP3 in today’s digital landscape.
The release of the track was accompanied by a vibrant music video directed by Matthew A. Cherry. The visual perfectly mirrored the cross-cultural and uplifting nature of the song.
If you use a premium streaming subscription, you can download the track directly to your device's internal storage for offline playback without needing to buy the individual file:
The origins of "Say Yes" are as heartfelt and organic as the song itself. The track was initially planned to be a solo effort by Williams for her fourth studio album, Journey to Freedom , which was released on September 9, 2014. The song, written by Williams, Carmen Reece, Al Sherrod Lambert, and its producer Harmony Samuels, was an EDM-inspired reimagining of the Nigerian gospel song “When Jesus Says Yes”.
The song, which serves as the lead single from Williams’ fourth gospel album, Journey to Freedom , is distinct for its unexpected production. Produced by Harmony Samuels, "Say Yes" is not a traditional choir-backed gospel ballad. Instead, it incorporates a sample of the Nigerian gospel hymn "When Jesus Say Yes" and infuses it with an Afrobeat-inspired rhythm. This decision was revolutionary. By fusing traditional African gospel sounds with contemporary pop production, Williams created a track that felt spiritually grounded yet undeniably catchy. It crossed borders and genres, allowing the message of faith to permeate clubs and radio stations just as easily as it did church pews.
The accompanying music video featured all three singers dancing at a vibrant street festival. It won the Music Video of the Year award at the 2015 Stellar Awards and has accumulated tens of millions of views online.
Here is a deep dive into the history, cultural impact, and lasting legacy of this iconic musical reunion. The Backstory: Reunited for a Higher Purpose
Michelle Williams, with a little help from her famous friends, created more than a song. She created a permission slip. Permission to be happy. Permission to dance in the face of trouble. Permission to say yes to life.
The accompanying music video visually solidified the reunion. Directed by Matthew A. Cherry, it features the three singers dancing in a street festival atmosphere, surrounded by drummers and dancers. The sheer joy and chemistry between the three women reminded the world why they became one of the best-selling female groups of all time.
