Daniel Caesar Returns to NPR’s Tiny Desk with ‘Son of Spergy’ Performance
Washington, D.C., January 9, 2026 – Canadian singer-songwriter Daniel Caesar made his second appearance on NPR’s Tiny Desk concert series, delivering a five-song set focused on tracks from his 2025 album “Son of Spergy.” Accompanied by a 12-piece choir and minimal instrumentation, Caesar showcased the album’s introspective themes of spirituality, nostalgia, and personal growth.
Performance Highlights
Caesar’s return to Tiny Desk, eight years after his debut in 2018, emphasized vulnerability and raw emotion. The set began with “Rain Down” and “Emily’s Song,” capturing the audience’s attention immediately. He continued with “Moon,” a track first debuted at NXNE 2025 in Toronto, and transitioned to the acoustic guitar-driven “Who Knows.” The performance concluded on a somber note with “Sins of the Father,” a song exploring generational trauma and family dynamics. Caesar ended with a smile, cheering alongside the choir and audience.
Key Facts and Set List
| Song Title | Notes |
|---|---|
| Rain Down | Opening track from “Son of Spergy,” featuring choir harmonies. |
| Emily’s Song | Introspective piece highlighting the album’s emotional depth. |
| Moon | Debuted at NXNE 2025; acoustic elements shine through. |
| Who Knows | Acoustic guitar-driven, with strong choir support. |
| Sins of the Father | Closing track on piano, addressing family and trauma. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NPR’s Tiny Desk?
NPR’s Tiny Desk is a concert series that features artists performing in the NPR Music offices, emphasizing intimate, stripped-down sets without a traditional stage setup.
Why is Daniel Caesar’s 2018 Tiny Desk performance notable?
His 2018 performance, promoting his debut album “Freudian,” is one of the top 15 most-viewed Tiny Desk concerts on YouTube, praised for its natural talent and charm.
What other artists have performed twice on Tiny Desk?
Artists like Billie Eilish, Noname, and Phoebe Bridgers have appeared multiple times, making Caesar part of an elite group.