Redemption, reinvention, and resonance – these are the threads that run through the latest chapter of FREE/MAN’s journey. With their new EP Reconnection, they revisit one of the most iconic songs in music history, Bob Marley’s Redemption Song, not as a mere cover, but as a conversation, a stripped-back, authentic exploration of freedom, truth, and personal evolution. In this interview, FREE/MAN opens up about why now felt like the right moment to return to Marley’s timeless message, how the creative process unfolded, and the deeply personal experiences that inform both this EP and their upcoming album, Gift In The Shadows. From blending alt-soul, Britpop, rock, and Americana to infusing live performances with moments of meditation and reflection, they share how music can become a mirror for growth, connection, and emotional honesty.
Redemption Song is such an iconic piece of music. What drew you to revisit it at this point in your journey?
I’m a huge fan of Bob Marleys integration of music and message and aspire to do the same. I chose this song for a few reasons – to honor a man I deeply admire, to stake my claim to try to do the same and to breathe new into a message that is as pertinent now as it ever was.
You’ve said this version is more of a conversation than a cover. What did that conversation look like creatively?
Aithentibity was the creative key. No bells and whistles. Stripped back and real. A genuine interpretation.
How did you decide how far to strip the arrangement back?
It felt intuitively right and obvious to do it this way and it came quick and I never changed my mind or doubted it was the correct way to go.
What emotions were you hoping listeners would sit with while hearing your version?
I guess I hope it’ll stir an emotional desire to break down falsity and seek truth and freedom – however that looks to each individual.
How do themes of freedom and redemption show up in your own life right now?
Moving in to a new paradigm and emotional state after a lengthy period of breaking down walls of erroneous belief systems, egoic construchkns and limitations built on wearing a life long mask of survival. Moving further towards thrive rather than survive , flow rather rather than grab. The journey is infinite but I’ve moved through a good deal of Treacle . I’m grateful.
Reconnection feels very intentional. What inspired the concept behind this EP?
As above, a point in the journey where I am reconnecting with a deeper knowing of who I am and a clearer understanding of the nature of reality as I see it / feel it.
Why did Redemption Song feel like the emotional center of the project?
It was such a perfect fit to represent both thd journey of redemption from darkness to light and to stake my claim for wanting to be an artist with a message that I am also living – that I am passionate about. For my own benefit but also hopefully for others.
Your influences span alt-soul, rock, Britpop, and Americana — how do you balance those worlds without losing your own voice?
Good question. I try to let the process unfold naturally and allow the right balance of my vision, the producers vision and the universal vision! It happens. It just happens.
Has your relationship with spirituality evolved through making this music?
I’m just glad to be representing my truth anc journey in the music. It feels real.
How does Reconnection set the tone for your upcoming album, Gift In The Shadows?
It sets it up philosophically and spiritually and also allows myself and the team to bridge the timeline with music in preparation for the album.
You’ve described the new album as your most personal work yet. What changed creatively or emotionally for you?
I wanted to let go of commercial music for commercial sake and return to meaning and message. I am backing it up with my experience and putting that into music so it has a meaning.
Your upcoming tour blends music with meditation and reflection — how did that idea come about?
Yes I love the idea of the gig going silent half way though… dropping in to a moment of silent connection/meditation… a shared smile… a collective moment of beautiful energy… then boom, back into a tune.
What do you hope people feel when they leave one of your live shows?
Connected, alive, instrospectuve, lifted… with emotions to enjoy, consider and explore.
How do you protect emotional honesty in an industry that often rewards image over depth?
Just be emotionally honest and let the rest follow. Hold that vibration and the rest will happen.
When listeners hear Redemption Song years from now, what do you hope it represents in your story as an artist?
I’ve loved covering Bob Marley… he was so inspirational with his melody and message. If I can contribute a percentage of what he did I’ll be happy. I’m already feeling satisfied that I have landed on those two strands in my music.
