SABAI and Linney Reimagine Their Breakup Ballad "Are You Happy Now" With Acoustic Rendition on Lost In Dreams Records
Vancouver-based producer SABAI and highly sought-after singer/songwriter and producer Linney united their creative forces last year for the emotive melodic bass collaboration “Are You Happy Now.” Returning to Lost In Dreams, the pair breathe new life into the track with a heart-rendering acoustic rendition.
The acoustic version of our “Are You Happy Now” draws the pain and emotion from the original and amplifies it with a stripped-back sound. The reduced production allows Linney’s gripping topline to melt the heart even more now, portraying the passion and hurt deeply with each vocal phrase. Although understated, the backing remains epic and cinematic, tracing the vocal performance with a flawless sonic brush. The moving piano keys craft an instant sense of pensive reflection, smooth guitar strums conjure waves of nostalgic longing, as the cinematic strings score the arc of a love lost. Despite its skeleton structure, the acoustic reinterpretation manages to expand the emotional weight, delivering a whirlwind of beautiful yet somber emotions.
Released last September, the single made its live debut when its two creators performed it live at the Lost In Dreams festival during SABAI’s set. Months down the road now, the re-imagination builds on the success of the original which drew support from Airwave Music, WaveMusic, Melodic Magazine, Kindline Magazine, Aipate, LA On Lock, Roadie Music, Rockola Indie, Music On The Rox, and Distopic.
Touching on the depth and soul from its acoustic version, SABAI shares his thoughts on the release, saying “This song means a lot to me. The vocals carry so much emotion, it felt right to strip it back and give it another life in its rawest form. Hope it hits you in a new way.”
Vancouver-based SABAI is a gifted producer whose sound spans a wide array of genres from melodic bass to R&B, and house. His combination of vulnerable songwriting and moving soundscapes has been comforting listeners around the globe. His music has drawn support from some of the scene’s brightest stars, including Illenium, Gryffin, yetep, ARMNHMR, and many more. He recently debuted his IKIGAI LIVE show at the Hollywood Palladium and is currently enjoying a run of high-profile shows at Beyond Wonderland SoCal, Beyond Wonderland Chicago, Project GLOW, VAC Music Festival, FVDED In the Park, Wobbleland, Time Nightclub, and The Brooklyn Mirage.
Los Angeles-based Linney is a triple-threat: serving as singer-songwriter and producer. With her unique skillset, she has set up a stronghold in the dance music space with a voice and sound that transcends genres. Her expansive catalog boasts massive collaborations alongside Nicky Romero, yetep, Manila Killa, KILL SCRIPT, Au5, MaRLo, Gareth Emery, and more.
“Are You Happy Now” (Acoustic) highlights SABAI and Linney’s undeniable chemistry. With it, the pair expands upon the haunting beauty of the original with a heartfelt acoustic rendition that will leave the dance music community longing for the one that got away.
SABAI’s acoustic version of “Are You Happy Now” ft. Linney is available on all platforms via Lost In Dreams Records.