Steve Aoki, Nile Rodgers, Sam Feldt, XANDRA and Zak Abel Catapult into Party Season with Uplifting Reimagining of Diana Ross’ ‘I’m Coming Out’
November 22, 2024 – After weeks of building anticipation across social media, a star-studded collaboration has arrived. Steve Aoki, Nile Rodgers, Sam Feldt, XANDRA and Zak Abel have unveiled ‘I’m Going Out,’ a fresh reimagining of Diana Ross’ legendary anthem ‘I’m Coming Out.’ The track is out today via Amsterdam-, New York- and London-based dance label Armada Music.
Sparked by an idea from two-time Grammy-nominated DJ and producer Steve Aoki and the legendary Nile Rodgers to create a contemporary anthem of celebration, ‘I’m Going Out’ comes just in time for the party season. While drawing from the uplifting spirit and empowering message of Diana Ross’ 1980 hit song, the original gains a modern sonic thanks to Sam Feldt, XANDRA and Zak Abel, blending the instantly recognizable melodies from the original with a fresh production and new lyrics, to become first-ever dance reinterpretation of the classic. Nile Rodgers, who co-wrote and produced the original with Bernard Edwards of CHIC, brings his re-recorded signature guitar to the reimagined dance-pop version, marking the first time he has featured on a rework of the original as a performer.
The release follows a remarkable year for Nile Rodgers, with a recent Grammy nomination in the best pop/duo group performance category for Beyonce’s ‘Levii’s Jeans’ to a string of successful releases, including a linkup with Cedric Gervais for a rework of Sister Sledge’s ‘We Are Family’, and ‘For Life’ with Kygo and Zak Abel. Aoki, with his extensive cross-genre discography and collaborations with artists like Lil Uzi Vert, Maluma and BTS, continues to push the boundaries of genre and style.
Multi-platinum hitmaker Sam Feldt and DJ sensation XANDRA bring their signature house-pop style to ‘I'm Going Out,’ following recent successes like Feldt’s chart-topping remix of global hit Mi Amor’ with JVKE & Anitta and XANDRA’s breakout debut ‘Body Say’. The track is fueled by minimalist drum beats, subtle percussion and an electrifying drop, with vocals from British star Zak Abel, whose career has soared through collaborations with icons like Kygo and Avicii.
On the linkup, Nile Rodgers said: “The original song holds a special place in my heart due to its incredibly uplifting energy and memorable message of inclusion. We wanted to preserve that spirit while introducing a new sound that feels fresh and exciting.”
“Music has a unique power to unite people from all walks of life, and Nile and Diana's timeless classic has been the soundtrack to unforgettable moments worldwide,” added Steve Aoki. “It’s an incredible honor to work with Nile, Sam, XANDRA and Zak, and reimagine this iconic dance floor anthem.”
Sam Feldt, whose music always aims to spread positivity and joy, reflects on the project: “I've been a fan of the disco hit ‘I'm Coming Out’ for as long as I can remember, so turning it into something fresh with Steve Aoki, XANDRA, Zak Abel and the original hitmaker Nile Rodgers was surreal. This is one of those rare tracks that hits you right in the feel-good zone—a blend of nostalgia with a fresh, tropical twist that makes you want to move. We've kept the essence but rewired it to be all about letting go of a relationship that doesn't serve you anymore and starting fresh. But honestly, it’s the kind of track you just put on when you're ready to start a night that could go anywhere. No need to be recently single." In addition to his music career, Feldt uses his platform to promote environmental sustainability through his Heartfeldt Foundation, furthering his commitment to spreading happiness and unity.
XANDRA added: “‘I’m Going Out’ is the wildest collaboration and mix of personalities that tells our version of a much-needed night out. An iconic night needs an iconic group and for this one, we have Steve and Sam, Zak's powerful vocals and Nile the legend behind it all. This track feels like the perfect tribute to the original energy Diana Ross brought to this song so many years ago.”
‘I’m Coming Out’, originally released in 1980, became a defining anthem for the LGBTQ+ community, celebrating personal freedom, self-expression and embracing one’s true identity. Written and produced by Rodgers and Edwards, the song’s empowering lyrics and vibrant disco sound propelled it to global success, reaching #5 on the Billboard Hot 100. It has since become a staple of global Pride celebrations and an enduring symbol of liberation and individuality.