Mykki Blanco drops new track with R.E.M frontman Michael Stipe

Mykki Blanco has just released a new track with R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe, which is out now through UK label Transgressive Records.

'Family Ties' is dedicated to Blanco's ex-boyfriend, they said: "[this is] the first song in my entire career where I am singing, I don't rap."

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The track was produced by Falty DL, Mykki's executive producer, and the pair recorded 'Family Ties' in Lisbon, Portugal and New York City.

Writing on Instagram, Mykki Blanco describes working with Stipe as a once in a lifetime experience. They say: "Having Michael Stipe sing and collaborate on this duet I wrote was a once in a lifetime moment! Thank you Michael for believing in my songwriting and believing in me! You are an icon and I am blessed to have worked with you."

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The new song's accompanying video was shot in the north of England and lyrically the track is deep, heavenly, and introspective.

As reported by Broadway World, Blanco shares in a statement: "I wrote this song about the relationship between my ex-boyfriend and his father that has had bouts of mental illness. When the person you love is going through a situation that you can't alter in any way, or help or be active in trying to correct it not only hurts them but it hurts you. I think the core meaning of this song is compassion in the face of helplessness."

'Family Ties' is Mykki Blanco's first new song since their widely acclaimed mini-album, 'Broken Hearts & Beauty Sleep', released last year via Transgressive Records.

Since they started recording together in 2018, Mykki has established a strong creative connection with Falty DL, as seen by this single.

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'Family Ties' is the first song from a completely new project that will be unveiled soon, along with further live dates.

For the time being, Mykki is set to perform with Little Simz, Father John Misty, Khruangbin, Pixies, IDLES, and Johnny Marr at the BBC 6 Music Festival on April 1.

'Family Ties' is out now. Watch the music video below.

Aneesa Ahmed is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow her on Twitter