Brandi Carlile Announces Returning To Myself (Sad Gay Version), Unveils “Human (Sad Gay Version)”: Stream
Brandi Carlile has announced Returning To Myself (Sad Gay Version), an expanded reimagining of her 2025 album, due for digital release on 25 September. The announcement is accompanied by “Human (Sad Gay Version)”, a stripped-back reinterpretation featuring composer and electronic musician Jon Hopkins, signalling a more intimate and emotionally focused approach to the original record.
The new edition will include “sad gay” versions of every original track, with Carlile returning to Long Pond Studio to co-produce four songs with Aaron Dessner. Released through Interscope and Lost Highway, it will also contain an exclusive cover of Billy Joel’s “And So It Goes”; an autographed rainbow-coloured vinyl edition is available to pre-order until 1 October. Carlile described the project as inspired by emotionally devastating songs from artists including R.E.M., Indigo Girls and Kate Bush.
- Carlile releases an expanded album edition on 25 September.
- “Human (Sad Gay Version)” previews its more intimate sound.
- The edition includes a Billy Joel cover and limited vinyl.
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Brandi Carlile is an American singer-songwriter known for mixing folk, rock and country influences. She has built a long-running solo career and is also a member of the group the Highwomen, alongside Natalie Hemby, Maren Morris and Amanda Shires.
Returning To Myself is Carlile’s 2025 album. The new release revisits its songs in more stripped-back arrangements, a format often used to put greater emphasis on vocals, lyrics and mood.
Jon Hopkins is a British composer and electronic musician whose work ranges from ambient music to electronic albums and film scores. Aaron Dessner is a musician and producer from the band the National who has worked with Carlile and other major artists, including Taylor Swift.