The enduring creative partnership between Duran Duran and Nile Rodgers has spanned over four decades, tracing all the way back to the band’s chart-topping success in 1984. This legendary collaboration thrives once again in 2026 with “Free to Love,” a sophisticated dance-funk anthem that cements their legacy.
On Friday, June 26, the iconic British ensemble will unveil Free to Love: Hot Star Remixes, an expansive collection featuring eight distinct re-imaginings of the track. “Occasionally, a song demands to be reimagined, and you have no choice but to follow that instinct,” explains Nick Rhodes. “We aimed to recruit a diverse array of contemporary producers—a process we haven’t explored in quite some time. It was an exhilarating leap of faith, and we are absolutely thrilled with how these artists have interpreted our work.”
Among the standout contributors is Trixie Mattel, the celebrated drag superstar and guitarist who secured the RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars crown in 2018 before pivoting to a successful career as a DJ and producer.
“The audacity to put my own signature on a track by Rock & Roll Hall of Famers during Pride Month!” Mattel remarked. “I wanted to push the tempo, create a cosmic disco atmosphere, and lay down a heavy, infectious bassline. I’m a firm believer that everything can be improved with a little extra flair.”
The Free to Love: Hot Star Remixes EP, available for pre-save here, also includes fresh takes from Horse Meat Disco, Harrison, and others.
“It was a fascinating journey to witness how various artists across the dance music spectrum approached our sound,” Rhodes added. “Whether you keep music confined to the studio or throw the doors wide open to see what happens, curiosity is the ultimate fuel. These remixes have been a truly fantastic adventure.”
Following a recent appearance on Billboard’s Takes Us Out to discuss her evolution as a DJ and newfound Swiftie status, Trixie Mattel joins an impressive roster on the remix package. Duran Duran is set to headline at London’s BST Hyde Park on July 5. The full tracklist follows below:
Free to Love: Hot Star Remixes Tracklist:
Free To Love – Horse Meat Disco Remix
Free To Love – Harrison Remix
Free To Love – DJWS & THE DISCO_NECT Remix by DJ White Shadow
Free To Love – ALISSIA Remix
Free To Love – Biff Chitlins Agape Remix
Free To Love – Inner Galactic Remix by BastienkHz
Free To Love – Jersey Black Cat Remix by BastienkHz
Free To Love – Trixie Mattel Remix
