New wave legends Duran Duran are embracing a disco sound with their upcoming track “Free to Love,” a collaboration with their long-time associate, Nile Rodgers. A recently released snippet of the song features classic disco imagery, including a glittery disco ball, and shows the band members in their sparkling attire. The track presents a thick synth bass line and heavily processed vocals from Simon le Bon, positioning it squarely within the modern disco revival scene.

The partnership between Duran Duran and Nile Rodgers is a storied one, dating back to 1984. The New York City-born guitarist, producer, and co-founder of the seminal disco-era band Chic famously applied his touch to the opener of Duran Duran's “Seven And The Ragged Tiger” album, “The Reflex.” His production work transformed the song into a global sensation, earning Duran Duran their first chart-topping hit on the Billboard Hot 100.

Rodgers was a significant inspiration to the members of Duran Duran even before their initial collaboration. Their professional and creative bond has remained strong over the decades, leading to further studio projects and live performances. Notable collaborations include the iconic track “Wild Boys,” as well as work on albums such as “Notorious,” “Astronaut,” “Paper Gods,” and, most recently, the 2023 Halloween-themed collection “Danse Macabre.”

The British band, inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, has a busy schedule ahead, with a series of shows booked for 2026. This includes a forthcoming residency at Bleaulive at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, appearances at arena and festival venues across North America and Continental Europe, and a headline performance at BTS Hyde Park on July 5. Nile Rodgers also maintains a packed itinerary, with concerts scheduled for the U.K., Europe, North America, and other locations in the coming months.

Duran Duran stands as one of the most resilient and successful bands from the early 1980s, a musical era that saw significant changes with the rise of grunge. Over their illustrious career, the band has accumulated numerous accolades, including the Brit Awards’ Lifetime Achievement award, two Ivor Novellos, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and two Grammy Awards. In 2022, they received their long-awaited induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. More recently, in 2024, lead singer Simon le Bon was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by King Charles, in recognition of his contributions to music and charity.

Duran Duran's “Free to Love,” featuring Nile Rodgers, is officially set to be released on April 23.