from SOUL
Written by Deniece Williams, Hank Redd, Nathan Watts, Susaye Greene
“Free” was a soul/R&B evergreen originally included in Deniece Williams’ 1976 album, This Is Niecy. Ms. Williams co-wrote the song with fellow Stevie Wonder “Wonderlove” alumni Hank Redd, Nathan Watts and Susaye Green. This enchanting smooth jam was produced by two geniuses; the late Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire (1941-2016) and arranger extraordinaire Charles Stepney (1931-1976). Their unique musicality gave Ms. Williams the perfect landscape to let her four-octave voice shine and together they created a true work of art. Sadly, Stepney died just a few months before the release of This Is Niecy. “Free” was released as a single in March 1976, reached #2 on the US R&B chart and #25 on Billboard’s Hot 100. Almost two years later, “Free” went to #1 in the UK.