Released March 31, 1997 Genre House Label Strictly Rhythm | Format CD single, maxi-single Length 5:52 (album version) | |
Writer(s) Ultra Naté, Lem Springsteen, John Ciafone | ||
"Free" is a song by American recording artist Ultra Naté released on March 31, 1997 by her record label Strictly Rhythm. The song was co-written by Naté , Lem Springsteen and John Ciafone while production was held by both Springsteen and Ciafone. "Free" was served as the lead single from her third studio album, Situation: Critical (1997). Musically, the song is a house influenced song that incorporates strong 90's soul, dance, garage and disco.
Contents
"Free" received positive reviews from contemporary music critics, who commended her vocal ability and production. The song has been noted as one of the best dance anthems during the 90's era. The song became Naté's most successful single to date, charting in many countries around the world. The song peaked inside the top forty in countries including United Kingdom, Canada, Norway, Belgium, Australia and New Zealand. The song managed to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number seventy-five but peaked at number one on the Hot Dance Club Songs.
Critical reception
"Free" received positive reviews from most music critics. Allmusic had highlighted three official versions of the song as "AllMusic Track Picks": the Bob Sinclar Remix, Jason Nevins Mix and the original version of the song. A reviewer from the publication Resident Advisor awarded the song four stars out of five. The reviewer said "This is a solid package from Curvve Recordings. “Free” has already received widespread plays from jocks worldwide, this time around it appears that it may well do the same. An absolute crowd puller, and an essential release for any house dj that is looking for something to fill up a dance floor in seconds."
Music video
The music video of "Free" was directed by Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato. It features Naté performing in an empty hospital. There are two different edits of the video, with some different scenes.
Impact and legacy
DJ Magazine ranked it number 5 in their list of Top 100 Club Tunes in 1998.
Track listing
- "Free" (Mood II Swing Radio Edit) – 3:41
- "Free" (Full Intention Radio Edit) – 3:20
- "Free" (Mood II Swing Extended Vocal Mix) – 12:09
- "Free" (Full Intention Vocal Mix) – 6:50
- "Free" (R.I.P. Up North Mix) – 6:45
- "Free" (R.I.P. Down South Dub) – 6:25
- "Free" (Mood II Swing Live Mix) – 7:42
- "Free" (Mood II Swing Dub Mix) – 8:52
- "Free" (Full Intention Sugar Daddy Dub) – 6:05