Released June 30, 2015 | Recorded 2015 Length 2:43 | |
Format Digital downloadstreaming | ||
"Freedom" (stylized as Freedom!) is a song by Pharrell Williams which was released for streaming on Apple Music and played by Zane Lowe on his show on Beats 1 on its launch date of June 30, 2015. Part of the song was made available as a teaser on Williams' Twitter page and was also used in a promotional video for Apple Music. Its music video was nominated for Best Music Video at 58th Grammy Awards.
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Critical reception
Writing for MusicSnake, Marissa Fitzgerald gave the song a very positive review, give it 4/5 stars and stating "'Freedom' is an awesome track with a feel-good vibe and a positive message. The lyrics are uplifting and promote living a happy life without restrictions or limitations." Rolling Stone describes the track, "powerful," as well as, "snappy," and, "infectious," while The Guardian describes it as, "socially conscious." According to USA Today, "Williams may have found a song that captures the tenor of its time."
Live performances
Williams performed the song on his international 2015 tour, including during his set at Glastonbury Festival 2015 on the Pyramid Stage on Saturday June 27. Williams also performed this single at the 2015 MTV Video Music Awards and the 2015 MTV Europe Music Awards . Williams performed the song on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Friday September 11.