Sade, the reclusive Nigerian-British singer known for her soulful, emotive music, is making a highly anticipated return to the industry this fall with a deeply personal track. “Young Lion,” her first new song in over six years, will be released on Nov. 22 as part of the Transa benefit album, an ambitious 46-track compilation designed to raise awareness and support for transgender and non-binary communities.
Over 100 artists, including well-known names like Sam Smith, Laura Jane Grace, Devendra Banhart, and André 3000, will contribute to the album, which is the brainchild of the nonprofit organization Red Hot. With a strong focus on trans and non-binary voices, Transa is positioned as a powerful tribute to the resilience, creativity, and leadership of these communities in today’s society.
Sade’s Emotional Tribute
Sade’s contribution to the album, “Young Lion,” is particularly significant. The song is dedicated to her son, Izaak Theo Adu, who came out as a transgender man. The legendary artist’s return to music after years of relative quiet is both poignant and timely, adding her soulful voice to a cause that is particularly close to her heart. In an emotional reflection on her experience as the parent of a trans child, the song is expected to resonate deeply with listeners.
According to Variety, the track features soft piano notes accompanied by Sade’s characteristically soothing vocals, with lyrics steeped in empathy and reflection. “Young man, it’s been so heavy for you/ You must have felt so alone… I should have known/ Shine like a sun/ You have everything you need,” she sings, conveying both regret and hope. The song’s gentle tone and heartfelt lyrics are emblematic of Sade’s unique ability to turn personal struggles into universal stories.
“I never thought I’d hear Sade sing about such a personal experience, especially related to the trans community,” said transgender musician, model, and activist Massima Bell, who collaborated with Red Hot on the project. “It’s amazing to see an artist of her caliber lending her voice to such an important cause.”
Red Hot’s Vision for Transa
Founded in 1989, Red Hot is renowned for its work in raising awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS relief through music. Over the past few decades, the nonprofit has raised over $15 million for global public health and LGBTQ+ initiatives. This year, they’ve turned their attention to trans and non-binary advocacy, with Transa serving as their latest project.
In a press release that Variety was able to obtain, Dustin Reid, Red Hot’s Executive Director, described the idea behind Transa. “We started talking about all the gifts that trans artists have been giving to the world and wanted to create a Red Hot project that centered and celebrated those gifts,” Reid said. “Trans and non-binary people have been leaders in their own lives, doing the deep inner work of affirming who they are in today’s climate.”
Reid emphasized that this process of introspection and self-affirmation is something everyone could benefit from. “Whether you identify as trans or non-binary or otherwise, if you took the time to explore your gender, to get in touch with the feeling side of yourself, maybe we’d have a future that centers around community, collaboration, care, and healing.”
Bell, who co-created the album with Reid, added that Transa is a spiritual journey. The album is divided into eight chapters, mirroring the eight stripes of the original rainbow pride flag, with each chapter representing a different emotional or social theme, including survival, grief, acceptance, and reinvention.
A Star-Studded Tracklist
Sade’s “Young Lion” appears in Transa’s seventh chapter, titled “Liberation.” This section of the album celebrates the theme of freedom, both personal and collective. Joining Sade in this chapter is Moses Sumney, Sam Smith, and Lyra Pramuk with a powerful rendition of Sylvester’s disco classic “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real).”
The compilation includes original tracks and covers by a wide range of artists, from Fleet Foxes and Julien Baker to Hunter Schafer and Perfume Genius. One of the standout songs is Lauren Auder’s rendition of Prince’s “I Would Die 4 U,” which features backing vocals from Wendy & Lisa, two of Prince’s original collaborators. Auder’s reinterpretation of the song carries new meaning in the context of trans identity, with the lyrics, “I’m not a woman, I’m not a man/ I am something that you’ll never understand,” taking on new layers of poignancy.
The diverse and eclectic mix of contributors highlights the collaborative nature of the project. From established stars like Sam Smith to rising talents like Bartees Strange, Transa brings together an extraordinary array of voices, all united in their commitment to celebrating the trans experience.
Trans Advocacy in a Challenging Climate
The release of Transa comes at a time of significant social and political challenges for the trans community, particularly in the United States, where transgender rights have been increasingly under attack. With anti-transgender legislation making headlines, particularly around healthcare and public accommodations, albums like Transa provide a crucial counter-narrative, focusing on the joy, resilience, and contributions of trans and non-binary people.
“This album is more than just music,” Reid said. “It’s a statement, a reminder that trans people have always been here and have always contributed to society, often as spiritual leaders or cultural visionaries. In a world that often marginalizes or silences them, this project aims to give them the spotlight they deserve.”
Red Hot’s efforts to amplify these voices align with their long history of using music for social change. “When we worked on Red Hot + Blue in the early 1990s, the world was in the grips of the AIDS epidemic, and homophobia was rampant. That album became a lightning rod for change, and we hope Transa can do something similar in today’s climate,” said John Carlin, Red Hot’s founder, in an interview with Billboard.
Sade’s Legacy and Return
For Sade fans, the release of “Young Lion” marks the artist’s first new material since 2018, when she contributed two songs to movie soundtracks. Her last studio album, Soldier of Love, debuted in 2010, topping the Billboard 200 chart. Despite her long absences from the music scene, her voice remains a beloved staple, with hits like “Smooth Operator” and “No Ordinary Love” still resonating with listeners decades after their release.
Now, her return with a song dedicated to her son Izaak is seen as a powerful statement of support for transgender individuals everywhere. In 2019, Izaak publicly thanked his mother on Instagram, expressing his gratitude for her love and encouragement during his transition. “Thank you for fighting with me to complete the man I am,” he wrote.
While Sade has always been known for her privacy, her involvement in Transa speaks volumes about her values and her commitment to supporting her child and the wider transgender community.
The Bottom Line
Transa is not just an album—it’s a message of hope, resilience, and love. In a world that often seeks to marginalize or erase trans and non-binary people, this compilation offers a powerful reminder of their creativity, strength, and importance in shaping culture and society.
As we look forward to the album’s release this fall, there is no doubt that Transa will be a landmark moment in both music and activism. With contributions from Sade and so many other prominent artists, the project is set to inspire a deeper understanding of the trans experience while offering a celebration of the diverse and vibrant talents within the community.
For transgender individuals, their families, and allies, Transa represents a much-needed beacon of support during these challenging times. As Sade herself sings in “Young Lion,” every individual, regardless of their gender identity, possesses the strength and light they need to shine.
