Planningtorock and Romy Reimagining ‘The One’: A Tender New Chapter for a Queer Classic

In a moving fusion of electronic expertise and soulful vocal prowess, Planningtorock has teamed up with The xx’s Romy for a brand-new version of the standout track, “The One.” This collaboration marks a significant evolution of a song that has long served as a cornerstone of Planningtorock’s discography, transforming a piece of art-pop history into a contemporary dancefloor anthem rooted in deep emotional resonance.

A Sonic Evolution: From Pizzicato to Luscious Synths

The original iteration of “The One” was first introduced to listeners in 2011 as part of Planningtorock’s second album, W—a record that earned significant acclaim for its “masterpiece of art-pop experimentalism.” While the original was characterized by its delicate pizzicato strings, this new rendition pivots toward a more expansive, modern soundscape.

For this rework, Bolton-born and Tallinn-based electronic musician Jam Rostron (the artist behind Planningtorock) enlisted Romy to provide warm, soulful vocals. The new arrangement trades the sparse string elements for luscious synths, creating a texture that balances intimacy with rhythmic drive.

“I wrote ‘The One’ back in 2009 when I was single and not yet able to live as my trans self. I was so lonely back then and the possibility of being in love felt incredibly far away,” Planningtorock shared regarding the song’s origins. “Romy’s rework of this song is so beautiful. She’s managed to take its original queer longing for love to another level of tenderness and hope and created something deeply moving.”

Shared Experiences and Queer Artistry

The collaboration is more than a professional pairing. it is a meeting of close friends who share a profound connection through their identities as queer artists. Romy, a longtime admirer of Planningtorock’s work, noted that their friendship provided a unique foundation for the track’s reimagining.

“I’ve been a fan of Planningtorock for a long time and have so much admiration and respect for the music they make and the person they are,” Romy stated. “Over the years we have become close friends and I think there’s an unspoken understanding between us – not just as friends, but through our shared experiences as queer artists.”

Romy’s goal for the track was to preserve the raw emotion of the 2011 original while expanding its reach. “When I first heard the original track ‘The One’, I was struck by the emotion sitting just beneath the surface – that sense of longing that feels both personal and universal. I wanted to honour the emotion in the original, letting the heart of song breathe whilst taking it’s hand and bringing it into the dancefloor.”

Upcoming Live Dates and Artist Context

As this new single arrives, Planningtorock is preparing for a significant run of live performances in the UK. The artist will be performing Bronski Beat’s iconic 1984 queer album, The Age Of Consent, in a special showcase alongside Tom Rasmussen and Bishi. Key tour dates include:

• Manchester: Aviva Studios – May 17
• London: Royal Festival Hall – May 24

Meanwhile, Romy continues to navigate a busy period with The xx. Following their return to the stage in Mexico City this past April and a long-awaited appearance at Coachella, the band has been active in the studio. Romy recently hinted at the group’s creative direction, noting that while they are exploring new sounds, they remain true to their signature aesthetic.

Key Takeaways

• The Collaboration: Planningtorock (Jam Rostron) and Romy (The xx) have released a new version of the 2011 track “The One.”
• Musical Shift: The new version replaces the original’s pizzicato strings with luscious synths and soulful vocals.
• Thematic Depth: The song explores themes of queer longing, trans identity, and the journey from loneliness to hope.
• Live Performances: Planningtorock will perform Bronski Beat’s The Age Of Consent in Manchester (May 17) and London (May 24).