Now you can listen to Sufjan Stevens’ cathartic cover of 'Hotline Bling' anytime you want

The saddest hotline bling, imaginable.

Sufjan Stevens released a live album version of the critically acclaimed Carrie & Lowell on Friday that graciously features his legendary cover of "Hotline Bling," arguably the most lasting version of the song (sorry, Aubrey).

While live versions of the singles "No Shade in the Shadow of the Cross" and "Should Have Known Better" offer intense emotion and performative power, Sufjan's "Hotline Bling" gives the indie kids something to dance to for once.

Recorded in November of 2015 at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center in South Carolina, the live album features 14 songs in addition to "Hotline Bling," which won over fans immediately when videos and pictures of the performance leaked online in 2015.

Stevens' performed the cover with his opener, Gallant, at multiple stops on his tour as an encore, telling concert-goers that after performing so many songs about death and loss, everybody could use a little Drake to brighten their spirits and go home on a positive note.

It's the cover that nobody asked for, but is charming in so many unimaginable ways:

Various videos of the cover have racked up millions of views on YouTube, because it's downright delightful.

Now, fans can listen anytime by streaming the live album on Spotify and Apple Music, or downloading from Bandcamp.

There's also filmed performances available on YouTube.

It's a happy holdover for fans who are eagerly waiting the release of Stevens' collaborative album, due out June 9, created with Bryce Dessner of the National and composer Nico Muhly, according to Consequence of Sound.

Topics Music

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You
Audible launches Read & Listen, allowing you to follow along with your audiobook
A smartphone showing the Read & Listen feature on  Audible



The Muppets have always known how to break the internet
Disney’s “The Muppet Show” stars Sabrina Carpenter and the original Muppet cast


Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

Google launches Gemma 4, a new open-source model: How to try it
Google Gemma

NYT Strands hints, answers for April 3, 2026
A game being played on a smartphone.

The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!