Sting Drops New 'Desert Rose' Remix EP

The collection features reimagined versions of the 2000 hit single.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:00pm

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An abstract close-up photograph of shimmering, glittering sequins captured in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting, conveying a sense of high-end luxury and glamour.Sting's new 'Desert Rose Reimagined' EP features a luxurious, glamorous visual aesthetic that matches the diverse musical interpretations of his classic hit.Hollywood Today

Sting has released a new EP titled 'Desert Rose Reimagined' that features three new mixes and three extended mixes of his 2000 single 'Desert Rose.' The remixes come from Middle Eastern-American duo Bedouin, African artist and producer Zakes Bantwini, and DJ/producer Darque. 'Desert Rose' was the second single off Sting's sixth solo album 'Brand New Day,' which was a commercial success, selling over 3.5 million copies in the U.S.

Why it matters

Sting's 'Desert Rose' was a major hit for the artist, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helping drive the success of his 'Brand New Day' album. The new remix EP allows Sting to revisit and reinterpret the classic track for a new generation of listeners, tapping into different musical styles and perspectives.

The details

The 'Desert Rose Reimagined' EP includes three new mixes and three extended mixes of the song. The reimagined version is by Middle Eastern-American duo Bedouin, while there are also remixes from African artist and producer Zakes Bantwini and DJ/producer Darque. 'Desert Rose' was the second single off Sting's 'Brand New Day' album, which was released in 1999 and went on to sell over 3.5 million copies in the U.S.

  • Sting's 'Desert Rose' was released as a single in 2000.
  • Sting's 'Brand New Day' album was released in September 1999.
  • The 'Desert Rose Reimagined' EP was released on April 3, 2026.

The players

Sting

An English musician who rose to fame as the lead singer and bassist of the rock band The Police, and has since enjoyed a successful solo career, releasing several acclaimed albums.

Cheb Mami

An Algerian raï singer who was featured on the original version of Sting's 'Desert Rose' single.

Bedouin

A Middle Eastern-American musical duo consisting of Tamer Malki and Rami Abousabe, who created a reimagined version of 'Desert Rose' for the new EP.

Zakes Bantwini

A South African artist and producer who created a remix of 'Desert Rose' for the new EP.

Darque

A DJ and producer who created a remix of 'Desert Rose' for the new EP.

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What they’re saying

“Revisiting and reimagining 'Desert Rose' with these talented artists has been a rewarding experience. I'm excited for fans to hear these fresh takes on a song that's been so meaningful to me.”

— Sting

What’s next

Sting will return to the U.S. for a new leg of his Sting 3.0 tour on May 6 in Hollywood, Florida, where he is expected to perform songs from the 'Desert Rose Reimagined' EP.

The takeaway

Sting's decision to revisit his hit 'Desert Rose' with a new remix EP showcases his continued creative drive and ability to collaborate with diverse artists to reinterpret his classic material for modern audiences. The project highlights Sting's enduring popularity and influence in the music industry.