The project came together with the approval of Houston’s estate and Primary Wave, who control rights to her catalog. Inspired by Scott’s stripped-down ballad version of the song, first performed while touring with Ed Sheeran in 2024, the estate invited him to record alongside Houston’s original vocal stems.

Produced in the UK with a full string section, the duet shifts the iconic dance anthem into a heartfelt ballad, highlighting the song’s undercurrent of yearning. Houston opens the track alone—an intentional choice from Scott, who calls the collaboration “one of the honors of my career.”

Pat Houston, Whitney’s sister-in-law and executor of her estate, says the reinterpretation felt natural: “Whitney was a balladeer, and Calum turned the song into a beautiful ballad.” Songwriters George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam also praised Scott’s respectful approach, noting that his decision to spotlight Houston’s voice first “shows such respect.”

The release also marks a celebration of the 40th anniversary of Houston’s musical legacy, reminding listeners why her voice remains timeless.