The True Story Behind ‘Freedom,’ the Peak Black Girl Song of the 1990s
Queen Latifah, Vanessa Williams, Angie Stone, Aaliyah, and Joi were among the artists who sang the lead track from 1995’s ‘Panther’
In May 1995, on the heels of the racially charged Rodney King and O.J. Simpson trials, Panther, a film based on the Black Panther Party and directed by Mario Van Peebles, was introduced and anchored by an all-women’s chorus on the title track, “Freedom.”
This groundbreaking single — and the accompanying video — featured more than 60 women trailblazers, including Aaliyah, Mary J. Blige, Queen Latifah, En Vogue, Monica, TLC, Meshell Ndegeocello, MC Lyte, and Brownstone. Twenty-five years later, it’s still peak ’90s Black girl magic and an unsung favorite for the culture. Yet, despite the celebrity touch points, the star-powered single and iconic video had humble beginnings.
Freedom for my body
Freedom for mind
Freedom for my spirit.
That verse is from the original recording of “Freedom,” which appeared on Pendulum Vibe (1994), the debut album of Joi Gilliam (known simply as “Joi”). Produced by Dallas Austin and Diamond D, it featured the pioneering neo-soul singer’s signature speakeasy…
