Rina Sawayama, The Latest Artist for NPR’s ‘Tiny Desk’ Concert
Rina Sawayama recently performed for NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert Series backed by a full band and string quartet. The singer chose the tracks “XS,” “Dynasty,” and “Chosen Family” to celebrate the at-home performance. Sawayama recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of her debut album, SAWAYAMA on April 17 and has continued to surprise fans with everything she is working on.
In a recent celebration of the album, Sawayama enlisted Elton John to create a new rendition of the song, “Chosen Family.” The support she has received from John and fans has been off the charts. The collaboration means the world to Sawayama, who even performed his version for Tiny Desk.
Chosen Family by Rina and Elton really got me feeling all 🥺🥺🥺
— stevie (@zerofivefour_) April 14, 2021
Sawayama gave a shout-out to an incredible glam team on social media. Her makeup had been done by Ana Takahashi and manicure by Lauren Michelle-Pires. The signature slicked-back high pony is by Jake Gallagher, and the periwinkle-colored blazer and other styling essentials are courtesy of Jordan Kelsey.
In addition to her glam team, she also includes the full band. She thanks Vic Jamieson on guitar, Simone Odaranile on drums, Geo Jordan on keys, and Phebe Edwards and Desrinea Ramus on backing vocals. For her string quartet, she also thanked Braimah Kanneh-Mason and Ayla Sahin on violin, Ife Didier Osindero on the viola, and Jonah Spindel on cello. Both her glam and the musical team allowed this to became a success, and she does not let it go unnoticed.
Fans have taken to social media to show their love and support for this stunning performance.
no thoughts just Rina Sawayama’s tiny desk concert pic.twitter.com/VaHkbZyNtb
— H (@HarryCraigNE) April 19, 2021
GOOD MORNING TO RINA SAWAYAMA ON TINY DESK ONLY pic.twitter.com/yVBVuljIs2
— court ! (@tokyoskyes) April 19, 2021
Despite the difficulties of the pandemic, Rina Sawayama has accomplished so much with her debut album. After its first birthday, she had finally been allowed to perform tracks off the album for the very first time. We can not be prouder of Rina. To continue the celebrations, stream SAWAYAMA on all music platforms. You can watch the NPR Tiny Desk concert below.
Writer | Tweet me @court__giles
