Steve Aoki, Nile Rodgers, Sam Feldt, XANDRA, and Zak Abel Kick Off Party Season with Vibrant Take on Diana Ross’s ‘I’m Coming Out’
Following weeks of social media buzz, a highly anticipated collaboration has dropped. Steve Aoki, Nile Rodgers, Sam Feldt, XANDRA, and Zak Abel have joined forces to release ‘I’m Going Out,’ a vibrant reinterpretation of Diana Ross’s iconic anthem ‘I’m Coming Out.’ The track is now available via Armada Music, the renowned dance label headquartered in Amsterdam, New York, and London.
Born from a collaboration between two-time Grammy-nominated DJ and producer Steve Aoki and legendary musician Nile Rodgers, “I’m Going Out” arrives just in time to ignite the party season. This reimagined anthem draws inspiration from the uplifting spirit and empowering message of Diana Ross’s 1980 classic, “I’m Coming Out.” With a modern twist, the track merges the iconic melodies of the original with fresh production and new lyrics, crafted by Sam Feldt, XANDRA, and Zak Abel. As the first-ever dance reinterpretation of the disco staple, it features Nile Rodgers’s re-recorded signature guitar, marking his debut as a performer on a rework of the iconic track.
Rodgers, who co-wrote and produced the original with Bernard Edwards of CHIC, shared his connection to the project:
“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.”
The release follows a standout year for Rodgers, who recently earned a Grammy nomination for Beyoncé’s “Cuff It” and collaborated on notable tracks like Cedric Gervais’s rework of “We Are Family” and Kygo’s “For Life” with Zak Abel.
Aoki continues to push boundaries with his diverse discography, collaborating with artists like Lil Uzi Vert, Maluma, and BTS. Speaking about the project, Aoki emphasized the timeless appeal of the song:
“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. It’s an incredible honor to work with Nile, Sam, XANDRA, and Zak to reimagine this iconic dance floor anthem.”
Sam Feldt and DJ sensation XANDRA bring their signature house-pop style to “I’m Going Out,” building on successes like Feldt’s chart-topping remix of “Mi Amor” with JVKE & Anitta, and XANDRA’s breakout debut, “Body Say.” The track’s minimalist drum beats, subtle percussion, and electrifying drop are elevated by Zak Abel’s powerhouse vocals.
Feldt reflected on his experience with 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 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.”
XANDRA added her excitement:
“‘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.”
Originally released in 1980, “I’m Coming Out” 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 track reached #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a staple of global Pride celebrations.
Now, “I’m Going Out” continues that legacy, reintroducing the empowering message to a new generation of listeners with a dance-floor-ready update.