The latest instalment in NPR’s long running series of intimate live sets features none other than the alternative electro-pop singer Rina Sawayama. No longer set up in the NPR offices due to the pandemic, we now see artists making use of their homes and other spaces to perform.
Now NPR Music’s Tiny Desk (home) concerts will be bringing performances from across the country and the world – “It’s the same spirit — stripped-down sets, an intimate setting — just a different space.”
Here, Sawayama takes over an empty office space accompanied by a full band and string section to give an electrifying performance of three tracks from her 2020 album ‘SAWAYAMA’: ‘Dynasty’, ‘XS’, and Elton John’s arrangement of ‘Chosen Family’.
Unable to tour due to COVID-19, Rina has been holding on to these tracks for the past year. Her Tiny Desk Concert reminds us of her range and versatility as she transitions effortlessly between raging emotional ballads, catchy pop and heartfelt soothing melodies.
Check out the full performance below:
Sawayama’s collaboration with Elton John was announced just earlier this month, with the two of them holding the concept of ‘Chosen Family’ close to their hearts as proud members of the LGBTQ community. In a press statement accompanying the collaboration, John praised Rina as “a brilliant, confidence-oozing, endlessly fascinating songwriter and performer.”
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