Rising from Madison’s vibrant rock scene with cinematic intensity and fearless authenticity, MORNINGSTAR are back with a statement single that refuses to be ignored. Their latest track, “FREE”, is more than a song—it’s a spiritual uprising. Anchored in radical honesty and pulsing with emotional urgency, this anthem was inspired by frontwoman Amber Swenor’s book Unleashed, and it serves as a battle cry for anyone struggling to reclaim their identity in a world full of masks and expectations.
With symphonic swells, hard rock grit, and theatrical production, “FREE” invites listeners into an immersive journey—one that feels both intensely personal and universally empowering. As the band’s lineup evolves and their vision sharpens, MORNINGSTAR continue to prove that their blend of melodic metal and emotional storytelling isn’t just cathartic—it’s necessary. We caught up with the band to dig into the story behind “FREE,” its deeper meaning, and the new era it sets in motion.
INFRARED: Let’s start at the beginning—what inspired the release of “FREE” at this point in your journey as a band, and how does it reflect where MORNINGSTAR is today artistically and emotionally?
MORNINGSTAR: “FREE” is the most aligned song we’ve written to date. It represents the bridge between our earlier work and where we’re headed. We’ve always made music that’s emotionally rich, but this song is more refined, more mature, and more intentional in its message. We’re growing as a band and as individuals—and “FREE” is the sound of that growth.
INFRARED: “FREE” is described as a rally cry for radical authenticity. What personal or emotional breakthroughs fueled the writing of this song?
MORNINGSTAR: It came from the realization that so many of us are performing constantly. We’re taught to dim ourselves, to filter our feelings. “FREE” is a declaration of rebellion against that. It’s about breaking those patterns, owning your story, and showing up fully as yourself—scars, strength, and all.
INFRARED: Amber, how did your book Unleashed influence the lyrics and message behind “FREE”?
MORNINGSTAR: The song was literally born from the book! There’s a section in Unleashed about facing your fear and choosing authenticity over approval. As I was writing, the lyrics started forming in my mind. I realized this message wasn’t just something to read—it needed to be sung, screamed, felt. So “FREE” became a musical embodiment of that core idea.
INFRARED: The song has a bold, cinematic energy. How did you approach the production to capture that powerful sound?
MORNINGSTAR: We wanted to create a sense of emotional lift—like breaking out of something heavy and bursting into the light. So, we layered strings, huge drums, and an evolving build to match the intensity of the message. Working with our producer was key in capturing both the rawness and the polish. It had to feel epic, but still human.
INFRARED: With new members Zach and Ricky joining the band, how did the current lineup shape the direction and energy of “FREE”?
MORNINGSTAR: Their energy was a breath of fresh air. Zach brought in this thunderous, driving force on drums, and Ricky added a grounded, rhythmic depth with his bass work. They both understood the emotional weight behind the song and helped elevate it without overcomplicating it. It felt like a real moment of alignment for us as a full unit.
INFRARED: MORNINGSTAR has always championed themes of mental health and self-empowerment. How does “FREE” build on that legacy?
MORNINGSTAR: “FREE” is kind of the mission statement of that legacy. It’s saying: “You’re not broken for feeling stuck. You’re not alone for wanting more.” We’ve always tried to create music that sees people where they are, and this song is our loudest reminder that it’s okay to want liberation—from expectations, from guilt, from the past.
INFRARED: Your live shows are known for being theatrical and immersive. What can fans expect when “FREE” is performed on stage?
MORNINGSTAR: We take people on a journey. When we play “FREE” live, we want it to feel like a release—for us and the audience. Think smoke, lights, huge dynamics, and a lot of emotion. It’s not just a performance—it’s a transformation. That’s what our shows are all about.
INFRARED: How do you want fans to feel after hearing “FREE,” especially those going through their own struggles with self-doubt?
MORNINGSTAR: We want them to feel seen. To feel powerful. We hope they hear the song and think, “This is exactly what I needed.” If it helps even one person feel brave enough to be themselves, then we’ve done our job.
INFRARED: What does the word “free” mean to each of you personally, beyond the context of the song?
MORNINGSTAR: Amber: To me, freedom is owning who you are. It’s when your words and actions align with your values, and you move through the world in a way that reflects your truth. You can’t put a price on the power of living authentically.
Zach: Being able to focus on yourself, your life, and the priorities that matter most.
Ricky: Being authentic and having peace with many aspects of life. It’s not always roses, but if you’re free to keep looking you’ll surely find some flowers. True freedom comes with being at peace more often than not.
Brandon: Being empowered to be yourself, live life in the way that feels right for you, and pursue your interests and dreams.
INFRARED: Was there a moment in the studio or during writing when you knew this song was something special?
MORNINGSTAR: Amber laid down the initial ideas, but Brandon really brought it to life—he crafted the melody, shaped the parts, and refined the lyrics. The first time Amber heard her inspiration turned into a real song, it felt like a message we’d been waiting to say in musical form. Through the production process, it kept getting better.
For Amber, this felt special from the start because it was the first time she truly merged her two worlds: music and her work as a coach. We started playing it live before it was released, and people told us they liked “the new stuff,” so we had a feeling it would land. But when we started pitching it to radio and got positive responses? That’s when we knew this one hit a nerve.
INFRARED: Do you see “FREE” as a standalone anthem or the beginning of a new era or concept for MORNINGSTAR?
MORNINGSTAR: Both. It stands alone as a powerful anthem, but it’s also the spark for a new era. We’re already working on the next body of work, and “FREE” sets the tone: bolder, deeper, and more sonically diverse.
INFRARED: Finally, what message would you share with someone who’s hearing MORNINGSTAR for the first time through this single?
MORNINGSTAR: Welcome! Let’s have some fun together. If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t belong, or like you had to hide parts of yourself to be accepted—this song is for you. MORNINGSTAR is more than music: it’s a community.
When you come to a show, we hope you feel like you’re stepping into an experience that helps you let go of the outside world, connect with others, and at the same time, feel more connected to yourself. We want you to feel the music—not just hear it. To lose yourself, reclaim yourself, and walk out more alive than when you walked in.
“FREE” is more than just MORNINGSTAR’s latest single—it’s a declaration of self-worth, a moment of clarity wrapped in soaring vocals and pounding riffs. The band continues to carve a unique path through the hard rock and melodic metal scene, blending message and music in ways that hit straight to the heart.
As they evolve artistically and personally, one thing remains clear: MORNINGSTAR isn’t just chasing sound—they’re chasing truth. And with “FREE,” they’ve invited us all to do the same.
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