Launching on Friday 14 August 2026, the powerful Radio Edit will arrive just ahead of Manchester Village Pride, taking place over the August Bank Holiday Weekend, where the song will receive a special live performance as part of the celebrations. The release will later be followed by an energetic Extended Club Mix and a feel-good Europop Mix, offering fans two fresh interpretations of the anthem while keeping its message of unity, acceptance and self-expression at its heart.

Written, composed and produced by Rick Holden (click here for his other releases), with additional mixing by UGHVEXX, Free To Be Me celebrates individuality, diversity and the freedom to live authentically. It was recorded at Manchester's Oscillate Studios. Inspired by Manchester's vibrant LGBTQ+ community and its long-standing reputation as a city that champions equality and inclusion, the track has been created as a soundtrack for Pride celebrations and beyond.

Adding even more authenticity to the release is featured vocalist Bella, an international performer whose powerful vocals are well known to many across Manchester through her live performances at the city's popular BarPop venue. Her soaring performance brings warmth, emotion and energy to a song designed to unite audiences on and off the dancefloor.

In keeping with the spirit of Pride, Rick Holden and Bella have pledged that 100% of all profits generated from the release date until 30 November 2026 will be donated directly to Manchester Village Pride Community Fund.

Rick Holden said:

‘Free To Be Me is more than just a dance track—it's a celebration of being exactly who you are. Manchester has always been a city that embraces diversity, and using the release of this song to donate to Manchester Village Pride Community Fund is an incredible honour. Knowing that every play and download during the campaign will help support a great cause that embodies what the song is about makes this release even more meaningful. Keep raving people and always be yourself!’

Bella said:

‘When I was first invited to collaborate on the track, I saw the lyrics and thought of the little queer 20 something year old that stepped into a gay bar for the first time and instantly felt like I was at home. Creating this has been a real labour of love, and to have our creation be able to support Manchester Village Pride Community Fund is the biggest honour. I hope you all enjoy listening to it as much as we’ve enjoyed making it. I hope this song takes you back to the moment you first felt at ease with being your authentic self and is reminder to those that aren’t quite ready, your time will come and you will flourish. You’re loved, you’re safe with us, and you’ll always be Free To Be Me.’