All aboard the Gravy Train.
Yung Gravy, a 26-year-old rapper known for his viral TikToks and satire-filled beats, is collecting the bras thrown on stage by his fans and transforming them into an act of good.
One of his TikToks has circulated widely, depicting a recent concert in Minneapolis, where Yung Gravy collected 159 bras. This rounds out his collection to 678 bras across the U.S.
At the end of his tour, he plans to donate them all to women’s shelters, and he’ll match the value of the donated bras with a donation to a breast cancer charity.
It’s all a part of Yung Gravy’s “Save The Nip” campaign. The video ends with a cheeky question: “So ladies, how much do you pay for a decent bra these days?”
Who is Yung Gravy?
Yung Gravy, whose real name is Matthew Raymond Hauri, rose to notoriety when he began sharing tunes on his SoundCloud account in 2017.
Now, the Midwestern rapper boasts three albums, seven EPs, and one mixtape, often rapping about moms, sampling from other pop culture staples, and crafting feel-good vibes.
He has often shared his love of older music, drawing inspiration from disco aesthetics and paying homage to iconic sounds from the ‘60s and ‘70s.
The history of throwing bras on stage
It’s only fitting that Yung Gravy finds inspiration in the artists of yesteryear, as his fans show support just like crowds did for Elvis.
Throwing bras on stage seems to date back to the fandom energy of Elvis Presley’s prime, when women would use tissues to mop up his sweat on stage, and leave him with souvenirs — like bras, hotel keys, or even underwear.
However, classic music aficionados point to pianist Franz Liszt as the “first rock star,” noting that even in the mid-19th century, women would tear off bits of his clothing, fight over broken piano strings, or throw their garments on stage, according to NPR. They called it “Lisztomania.”
The tradition obviously continues today — whether it’s bras for Yung Gravy or chicken nuggets for Harry Styles (we’re still not sure what the deal is with that one) — as fans attempt to experience an individual moment of glory with their favorite heartthrobs.
Why is this good news?
Although this playful bra-throwing bit might start as bids for attention, Yung Gravy has given a new meaning to this fan interaction by pledging his support for women’s health and safety.
The rapper has previously shared his support of bodily autonomy, posting to his Instagram in January 2020, wearing a T-shirt that reads “Pro Roe.” His caption goes on to share: “the gravy train stands for abortion rights for all the lovely ladies out there.”
Yung Gravy has not yet shared which charities or shelters will benefit from the Save The Nip campaign, but regardless of where his support goes, there is certainly a need.
Bras are a heavily requested item in domestic violence and homeless shelters, as they are functional necessities that help keep people comfortable, especially if going a few days without bathing.
Bras are also a staple for self-esteem and dignity, as transgender women search for gender-affirming items, pregnant women seek comfort, and nursing mothers need flexible garments.
Since quality bras are often on the expensive side, shelters are almost always in need of more donations. It’s exciting to think about how 678 bras (and counting!) will support women in need.
How can you help women’s shelters (even without taking your bra off at a concert)?
If you didn’t score Yung Gravy tickets — or aren’t so sure about tossing your shapewear into stardom — you can still support women all the same!
Consider donating your gently used bras to a nearby shelter (though, it’s important to note that some shelters accept gently worn bras, while others only accept new garments).
You can also collect other high-demand items to donate, such as diapers, menstrual hygiene products, makeup, hair care products, linens, laundry detergent, socks, or kid’s toys and books.
If you can’t find a shelter near you, Third Love has also compiled a helpful guide about where you can donate your pre-loved bras to make sure they get in the right hands — or, uh, on the right shoulders — of those in need.
Of course, you can also always donate your money, time, or talents to organizations that help women safely leave violent environments or work through homelessness.
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