I’m a Stranger Here Myself–Wainwright Does Weill not only honors Kurt Weill’s legacy but also continues Rufus Wainwright’s lifelong exploration of artists who, like him, live at the crossroads of high art, pop culture, and emotional excess.Known for his theatrical flair and vocal prowess, Wainwright’s fascination with Weill’s music goes back for decades—in his early twenties he wore out the vinyl grooves of Teresa Stratas’ famous Weill album and he has long expressed his admiration for Weill’s unique blend of “pop music with an operatic sensibility, the profane with the divine.”

Premiering in May 2023 at New York City’s Café Carlyle, Wainwright Does Weill marked Wainwright’s first extensive exploration of Weill’s repertoire. While Weill’s musical influence can be heard in Wainwright’s own songwriting, he had never before dedicated an entire evening to singing the German musician’s songs. Wainwright followed the sold-out five-night residency in New York by expanding his approach with a fully orchestrated concert version performed on the grand stage of Los Angeles, CA’s Theatre at Ace Hotel in 2024with the Pacific Jazz Orchestra under the baton of Chris Walden in 2024.Wainwright and the PJO brought a unique interpretation to Weill’s singular compositions, which are celebrated for their fusion of classical, cabaret, and jazz elements with featured performances of classic songs such as “Surabaya Johnny,” “Je ne t’aime pas,” “SeptemberSong,” and “Lost in the Stars.” Now captured on record for the first time and featuring guest appearances by Viola Odette Harlow and the Netherlands’ famed Metropole Orkest, I’m a Stranger Here Myself–Wainwright Does Weill, is at its core less about perfect preservation of the past and more about breathing new life into it–channeling Kurt Weill’s music through a 21st century lens with wit, grandeur, and unapologetic heart.

Releaed 11/21/25, I’m a Stranger Here Myself–Wainwright Does Weill is available to order here on black vinyl 2 LP and on CD. While supplies last all copies of the vinyl are signed by Rufus Wainwright.

Event preorders for store pickup will be held for three months after the event date. Please pick up your copy of I’m a Stranger Here: Wainwright Does Weill no later than February 21st.