Jon Batiste Shares Cinematic ‘Lonely Avenue’ Single Featuring Randy Newman

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Randy Newman appears on Jon Batiste’s newly released single, “Lonely Avenue.” The cinematic track was recorded for Batiste’s upcoming album, Big Money, set to arrive on August 22 via Verve/Interscope.

Batiste worked quickly to complete Big Money, taking two weeks to complete the follow-up to his 2024 album, Beethoven Blues. The New Orleans native co-produced Big Money with frequent collaborator Dion “No ID” Wilson.

Newman, who has won multiple Academy Awards for Best Original Song, is one of several guests who can be heard on the pending release. Batiste also recruited Andra Day, Nick Waterhouse and The Womack Sisters, among others.

Batiste and Newman recorded “Lonely Avenue” in one take in the latter’s living room. The song — the album’s lone cover — was written by Doc Pomus and popularized by Ray Charles.

“Ray is my patron saint,” Batiste said. “Just as the Big Money songs are in conversation with each other, I’m in conversation with Randy and Ray.”

Newman and Batiste can be seen in the music video accompanying “Lonely Avenue.” Watch the David Henry Gerson-directed visual below: