Photo by Alysse Gafkjen

Country singer Margo Price is set to lead a star-studded tribute album honoring the legendary Leon Russell, titled, A Song for Leon, due to release on Sept. 8 via Primary Wave Music/Secretly Distribution. In celebration of the project’s announcement, Price dropped the first cover by Russell off the album, her take on his 1971 track, “Stranger in a Strange Land.”

Price’s interpretation of the opening track from Leon Russell and the Shelter People displays how her country rock inclinations and unflinching persona add a distinct touch to the song – while paying homage to the original. Reflecting on the 1971 version, Price described it as “prolific” and added that it had become a staple in her live performances since recording the cover. The singer added she appreciates the monologue in the middle of the song, finding its themes of the afterlife and equality as relevant today as ever.

In addition to Price, the tribute album boasts contributions from various acclaimed artists, including Orville Peck, Pixies, Nathaniel Ratliff and the Night Sweats, Hiss Golden Messenger, Monica Martin, and Durand Jones and the Indications. Notably, the album will also feature Russell’s daughter, Tina Rose, collaborating with Jason Hill and Amy Nelson for a rendition of “Laying Right Here in Heaven.”

A Song for Leon also hosts other exceptional collaborations, including Bret McKenzie of Flight of the Conchords joining forces with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band for an interpretation of “Back to the Island” and funk icon Bootsy Collins teaming up with U.S. Girls for a rendition of “Superstar,” the Carpenters’ classic co-written by Leon Russell and Bonnie Bramlett.

Read Relix’s cover story with Price here.

Listen to Price’s rendition of “Stranger In a Strange Land” below.