Tina Arena and Ngaiire join forces on a song made possible by donors

Two of Australia’s most beloved artists, Tina Arena and Ngaiire, have come together with Australian Red Cross Lifeblood to create a reimagined version of Sia’s hit song “Unstoppable”, highlighting the life-saving impact of Australia’s donors.

The result of the collaboration is the “Unlikely Version” - a song performed entirely by Australian artists and band members whose lives have been saved by blood, plasma, stem cells, or platelet donations, including Tina Arena and Ngaiire themselves.

Released nationwide today, the new track is a reminder of what is possible against the odds and embraces the unlikely: two artists with distinct styles, textures and vocal identities coming together to reimagine “Unstoppable” in a way that feels both nostalgic and familiar, but with a new edge.

In 2023, Melbourne-born singer/songwriter, Tina Arena, learnt first-hand the life-saving impact of donated blood, receiving a transfusion during a serious illness.

“This experience reminded me just how powerful generosity can be. Donations don’t just save lives, they give people the chance to go on and make the most of life,” said Tina.

“If it wasn’t for the blood transfusion, I may not have been here today and I’m now even more appreciative of music. This song is proof of what’s possible when people show up for each other.”

Recorded and filmed at Festival Hall in Melbourne earlier this year, Tina and Ngaiire, along with band members and fellow donation recipients, Maxwell, Lara, Jonathan and Adam, brought their own unique sound, stories and lived experience to the performance. 

“There was an incredible sense of connection, gratitude, resilience and creative freedom at Festival Hall. Everyone brought something personal to the song, and that collective spirit is what people will hear when they listen,” added Tina.

For Australian-Papua New Guinean singer-songwriter Ngaiire, the project carries significant personal meaning. She received donations as a child to overcome a rare cancer.

“Since I was young, music has always been a way for me to process emotions and during that difficult time, I felt really led to music which has shaped my life since,” explains Ngaiire.

“This song, “Unstoppable” is such a celebration of life. I’m here, and I get to do what I love because of donations in the past. Being part of something so creative and positive, alongside artists and musicians I admire, feels really special,” said Ngaiire.

The “Unlikely Version” project represents what is made possible because of the generosity of donors.  

“It’s about what comes after. The lives we get to live, the art we get to make, the moments we get to share,” Ngaiire added.
With more than 1.7 million donations of blood, plasma and platelets now needed in Australia every year, Lifeblood hopes the “Unlikely Version” will inspire more people to become donors. 

Lifeblood’s Executive Director of Donor Experience, Cath Stone, said at its heart, the “Unlikely Version” is a celebration of the life-giving act of donation and a reminder of the ongoing need for donors as Australia’s demand for blood and plasma continues to grow.   

“This project shines a light on the often-unseen impact of blood, plasma, stem cells and platelet donation in Australia and the extraordinary outcomes made possible by the selfless acts of everyday Australians,” Cath said.

“It’s impossible to listen to this version of “Unstoppable” and not feel overcome thinking about just what’s possible when people take the time to roll up their sleeve and donate.

“Every donation creates another chance at life, another story to tell, another song to sing along to.”

Watch the video of the live performance here or via Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube.

One in three Aussies will need blood or blood products in their lifetime, however, only one in 30 people donates.  You never know when you, or someone you love, might require a blood product.

To book a donation, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the free Lifeblood app.