Kae Tempest Delivers Uplifting George Michael Cover ‘Freedom! ’25’

Experience Kae Tempest’s euphoric take on George Michael’s classic, blending fresh energy with timeless freedom vibes.

A New Chapter for a Classic Anthem

There’s something magical about hearing a beloved classic reinvented, and Kae Tempest’s cover of George Michael’s ‘Freedom! ‘90’—now reimagined as ‘Freedom! ’25’—does exactly that. As a longtime fan of Tempest’s poetic and musical prowess, I was instantly drawn to this euphoric rendition, which feels both fresh and reverent. It’s like catching an old favorite in a new light, reminding us why George Michael’s music remains timeless.

Kae Tempest, the British rapper, poet, and playwright, has never been one to shy away from powerful expression. Their fifth studio album, Self Titled, released in July through Island Records, is a testament to that—produced by the legendary Fraser T. Smith (known for working with Adele, Stormzy, and Dave) and featuring collaborations with icons like Neil Tennant of Pet Shop Boys, Young Fathers, and Connie Constance.

Breathing New Life into ‘Freedom! ’90’

Tempest first introduced this cover on Jo Whiley’s BBC Radio 2 show, recorded live at the iconic Maida Vale Studios. The energy of that session was palpable—an intimate yet electrifying moment where the spirit of George Michael’s anthem was reborn.

Here’s the recorded version of Freedom! ’25’ alongside a glimpse of that soulful session:

While this link delivers the vibes, it’s worth noting the heartfelt collaboration behind the scenes. Tempest shares the stage with Leah Cleaver, whose voice adds a beautiful layer of life and spirit to the track. Working with Fraser and Leah has been a dream for Tempest—one that shines through every note.

“This song is a victory,” Tempest said. “Love George Michael so much. Grateful to him for the light he shone. It feels powerful, re-summoning the spirit of this song in this moment. I’ve performed it live a few times, and it’s a stunning feeling to find it with the crowd; it feels like a revelation. All we have to see is that I don’t belong to you, and you don’t belong to me. Freedom.”

And, just for the nostalgic fans, here’s the original George Michael video that started it all:

Touring, Talks, and Triumphs

Recent weeks have seen Tempest on the road across Europe, sharing their vibrant performances and connecting with fans old and new. Next up is a UK tour hitting major cities like London, Bristol, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Dublin—a perfect chance to experience the raw energy live.

The Self Titled album itself has garnered glowing praise, with a notable four-star review highlighting tracks like “Know Yourself.” It’s a powerful dialogue between past and present selves, capturing the shifting identities and chaotic worlds we all navigate. It’s a deeply personal yet universally resonant project.

Tempest has also spoken candidly about their identity and role as a non-binary artist in the public eye. It’s about more than visibility—it’s about authenticity and community.

“It’s not like I feel the weight of a responsibility,” they explained. “It was important for me to show up for my community, to show up for myself being a trans man and a non binary person. These are just crucial elements of my make-up.”

“If I’m being celebratory and honest and uncompromising about expressing myself, there’s some freedom that will come in terms of other people’s own feelings about what they may not feel comfortable expressing amongst friends, family or in public.”

The Power of Freedom in Music

What resonates most about Tempest's ‘Freedom! ’25’ is not just a cover—it’s a reclaiming of the message behind those iconic words. Freedom isn’t just a buzzword here; it’s a lived experience, a celebration, and an invitation.

Listening to this version, you can’t help but feel the weight and the uplift. It’s a track for the now, capturing the timeless essence of George Michael’s original while adding Tempest’s unique poetic heart.

Final Thoughts

There’s a joy in witnessing artists like Kae Tempest take bold steps to reimagine classics with fresh energy and deep respect. ‘Freedom! ’25’ feels like a beacon of hope and expression in a world that desperately needs both. So, whether you’re a fan of the original or new to Tempest’s work, this cover is a must-hear moment.

FAQ

• What inspired Kae Tempest to cover George Michael’s ‘Freedom! ’90’?
  Tempest has loved the song forever and wanted to explore the layers of meaning within the lyrics, finding new ways to unlock its message.
• Who collaborated with Kae Tempest on ‘Freedom! ’25’?
  The track features the soulful vocals of Leah Cleaver and was produced by Fraser T. Smith, known for his work with heavy hitters like Adele and Stormzy.
• Where can I watch Kae Tempest’s live performance of ‘Freedom! ’25’?
  The song was first performed live on Jo Whiley’s BBC Radio 2 show, recorded at the Maida Vale studios, with a clip available online.
• What themes does Kae Tempest explore in their album ‘Self Titled’?
  The album delves into identity, self-discovery, and the chaotic world we live in, often reflecting shifts in personal and societal perspectives.
• Is Kae Tempest touring soon?
  Yes, Tempest is touring the UK and Europe, with upcoming shows in London, Bristol, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Dublin.

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