Full Breakdown
Duran Duran Releases ‘Free to Love: Hot Star Remixes’
6/25/2026, 12:10:53 AM
Release and Promotion
On 26 June 2026 Duran Duran will release *Free to Love: Hot Star Remixes*, eight reinterpretations of their Nile Rodgers-featured single “Free to Love”. The set launches digitally on that Friday and will follow on maxi CD, vinyl, cassette and a seven-inch single with an instrumental B-side later in the summer. The CD single is the band’s first UK CD single since 2007 and will include two bonus remixes. The eight remixes feature contributions from drag performer DJ Trixie Mattel, disco-house duo Horse Meat Disco, and producer Harrison.
Background
The collaboration with Nile Rodgers continues a partnership that helped Duran Duran secure a Billboard Hot 100 number-one in 1984. The single has been promoted with a Top-of-the-Pops-style video, a performance on the UK’s *The One Show*, and an appearance on *Jimmy Kimmel Live*.
Official Statements & Responses
Keyboardist Nick Rhodes said the band deliberately sought contemporary remixers, calling the project a “leap of faith” and noting excitement about the diverse interpretations. Trixie Mattel expressed enthusiasm for adding her spin during Pride Month, highlighting the remix’s higher BPM and bass emphasis.
Criticism & Opposition
Fan reaction to the original “Free to Love” single has been mixed. Some reviewers called it “dreadful”, “instantly forgettable” and “dull”, while others described it as “fun and frothy” and “highly enjoyable”. Some listeners also expressed disappointment that the remix release lacks a new B-side or additional Duran Duran songs.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was fascinating to work with artists across different genres of dance music to see how their approaches to our song varied. With music you can either keep it locked up in your room or open the doors to the whole hotel and find out what the other rooms look like and sound like,” — Nick Rhodes, Duran Duran
- “The audacity for me to put my own spin on this track!” — Trixie Mattel, DJ/Drag Performer
- “A slightly higher BPM, more cosmic disco fantasy and a fat nasty bass. I firmly believe anything can be made gayer.” — Trixie Mattel, DJ/Drag Performer
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Both sources confirm the digital release date (26 June) and the eight-track digital lineup. However, the exact launch dates for the CD, vinyl, cassette and seven-inch formats are not disclosed, and the total number of tracks on the physical releases (including the two bonus remixes) remains unspecified.
