As Loleatta once sang, “I’m Ride On Time.” With that timeless nod to diva legend, it’s clear we’re about to step into something fabulous. In the spirit of Pride and all things dance-worthy, we’re diving into a tribute mix dedicated to the Freemasons, the masterminds behind some of our all-time favorite gay anthems.
The Freemasons are not just any production team; they’re sonic alchemists. They take classics and retrofit them with 21st-century sheen so impeccably, you’d think they were always meant to be heard that way. For anyone familiar with their work, they turn the dance floor into a revivalist altar, where divas—past and present—bask in a whole new kind of limelight.
Freemasons have a knack for crafting tracks that feel both contemporary and timeless. Take their remix of George Michael’s sultry “I Want Your Sex” for instance. What was once a taboo-smashing tune in the late 80s gets a euphoric update, making it as relevant as ever.
Then there’s the song that catapulted Freemasons into the spotlight: “Love On My Mind,” featuring the compelling vocals of Amanda Wilson, isn’t just a Freemasons original. Oh no, it’s a masterful nod to the disco era, sampling the infectious beats of Jackie Moore’s Disco classic, “This Time Baby.” In one track, Freemasons give us the best of both worlds: the allure of a bygone era and the fresh energy of modern dance music.
Let’s talk about their reworking of Faith Evans’ “Mesmerized.” The original was soulful and gritty, but in the hands of Freemasons, it became a soaring anthem of desire. And if that’s not enough to prove their versatility, let’s not forget their classic “When You Touch Me,” featuring Katherine Ellis. This track is more than just a banger; it’s a masterclass in building and releasing tension, all with the backing of Miss Ellis’ powerful voice.
Speaking of powerful voices, “Turn Me On” by Dirty Old Ann features the powerhouse vocals of Kathy Brown, and while the original was a floor scorcher in the 90s, the Freemasons remix is where the track truly comes alive. The Freemasons didn’t just tweak a few things; they revolutionized the song, injecting an electric pulse that makes it impossible not to dance. This isn’t just a remix—it’s a complete transformation that arguably eclipses the original. It perfectly showcases the Freemasons’ knack for taking a song and elevating it into an unforgettable experience.
And then there’s Beyoncé’s “Green Light.” Queen Bey already brings a lot of firepower on her own, but add in Freemasons, and you’ve got an inferno. The Freemasons remix adds an irresistible beat and a dash of groove that wasn’t there before, making it an instant hit on the dance floor. It’s like a green light for your dancing feet—go, go, go!
Last but certainly not least, let’s chat about “Love Sensation ’06” by Loleatta Holloway. Talk about coming full circle! This track is an update to Holloway’s original disco classic from 1980, which, as we know, was heavily sampled by Black Box for “Ride On Time.” But in this 2006 version, it’s like Loleatta takes back her crown, especially with Freemasons at the helm. They bring that modern electro-house vibe, essentially reclaiming the essence of the original and giving it a fresh 2000s twist.
It’s no exaggeration to say that these tracks become not just songs but anthems when the Freemasons lay their hands on them. And that’s what makes this tribute mix such a gem: it’s a celebration of dance music, both classic and contemporary, elevated by the Freemasons’ genius.
Now, if you’re new around these Party Favorz parts and wondering where to dig into this duo’s brilliant work, worry not. For a deeper experience, dive into our “Catching Up with Freemasons” volumes 1 & 2 to appreciate the depth of their genius. Trust me, this is the best introduction into their world.
So, as we celebrate Pride, or just the joy of being fabulous any time of the year, let’s do it with the sort of music that helps us be FREE, GAY, and HAPPY. Freemasons aren’t just part of the playlist; they are the architects of a musical universe that invites us all to dance a little freer.
Until the next time…ENJOY!
Album : Summer of Pride | Freemasons Tribute
Genre : EDM, Disco, House
Year : 2013
Total Time : 1:48:19
1. Luther Vandross – Shine (Club Mix)
2. Dirty Old Ann – Turn Me On (Remix)
3. Freemasons feat. Sylvia Mason James – Nothing But A Heartache
4. George Michael – I Want Your Sex 2010 (Club Mix)
5. Freemasons feat. Amanda Wilson – Love On My Mind (Back To Philly Mix)
6. Faith Evans – Mesmerized (Full Vocal Mix)
7. Beyonce – Green Light (Freemason’s Mixshow Edit)
8. Alibi vs. Rockefeller – Sexual Healing (Club Mix)
9. Fatboy Slim – Right Here Right Now (Remix)
10. The Beach & Tia – Suntan (Remix)
11. Freemasons feat. Katherine Ellis – When You Touch Me (2008 Club Mix)
12. Heather Headley – In My Mind (Vocal Club Mix)
13. Steve Mac vs. Mosquito feat. Steve Smith – Lovin’ You More (That Big Track) (Remix)
14. Eurythmics – Here Comes The Rain Again (Remix)
15. Loleatta Holloway – Love Sensation ’06 (Club Mix)
16. Jamiroquai – (Don’t) Give Hate A Chance (Remix)
