Rina Sawayama has roped a very special guest in for a new version of the song “Chosen Family” from her eponymous 2020 debut album. On Monday (April 12) the “STFU!” singer announced that the revisit — due out on Wednesday (April 14) — will feature Sir Elton John. The single will make its debut on Zane Lowe’s Beats1 show at 12 p.m. ET on Wednesday, followed by the premiere of the video on YouTube a 1 p.m. ET.
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“It was such a joy and honor to rework ‘Chosen Family’ with the legendary Elton John,” said Sawayama in a statement about the new take, which features vocals and piano from pop icon John. “The song means so much to both of us, and recording it together was such a special experience I will never forget. I got shivers when I heard his voice through the monitor and became emotional when he added the piano parts. Elton has been such a huge supporter from before the album, and when we finally met to record this song we clicked from the get go. I hope people can hear the magic!”
The original power ballad was produced by Danny L Harle and written by Rina, Danny, and Jonny Latimer as an emotional ode to Rina’s LGBTQ+ family, highlighting the concept of a “chosen family” for those who’ve been “ostracized by their family, friends or community after coming out.”
Sawayama released a deluxe version of the album in December and has announced a slate of upcoming North American tour dates.
Sept. 28 — San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
Sept. 29 — San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
Oct. 5 — Portland, OR @ Holocene
Oct. 6 — Seattle, WA @ Washington Hall
Oct. 12 — Denver, CO @ Globe Hall
Oct. 13 — Denver, CO @ Globe Hall
Oct. 15 — Minneapolis, MN @ Fine Line
Oct. 16 — Chicago, IL @ Bottom Lounge
Oct. 18 — Toronto, ON @ Mod Club
Oct. 19 — Montreal, QC @ Corona
Oct. 20 — Boston, MA @ Royale
Oct. 22 — Washington, DC @ Union Stage
Oct. 23 — Philadelphia, PA @ The Foundry at The Fillmore
Oct. 24 — Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel
Oct. 25 — Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel