M.I.A. teams up with Zayn on new single ‘Freedun’
M.I.A. is about to release her brand new album A.I.M. on the 9th of September. After singles ‘Swords’, the much talked about ‘Borders’, ‘Bird Song’ and ‘Go Off’, the controversial hiphop star drops one more single for us to enjoy before we finally get the whole album. On this new track ‘Freedun’ she gets some help from former One Direction star Zayn Malik, who has been making waves with his solo career. After launching single ‘Pillowtalk’ and album Mind of Mine, he featured on Snakehips’ ‘Cruel’ and ‘You Can’t Hide’ from The Get Down soundtrack! An interesting collaboration to say the least!

M.I.A. opens the track stating: “I’m a swagger man, rolling in my swagger van, from the People’s Republic of Swagistan!” The lyrics are basically about how M.I.A. is on top of the world, but not without touching on some serious subjects, like the refugee crisis which was a central theme on ‘Borders’ as well. Zayn’s vocals are present throughout the whole tune, humming and softly belting in the background, but come to the front during the chorus, singing: All the stars are still shining, but you’re the only one I see. I can feel when your heart beats, yeah, but you can’t keep your eyes off me.” The chorus has a beautiful atmospheric chorus, which would have made more impact if Zayn’s sultry tone wasn’t so affected by technology. His voice doesn’t need that. M.I.A. herself delivers the most catchy part of the track though, with the infectious repetition of the ‘Free-de-de-dun’. It’s a groovy track with straightforward beats and laidback raps. An enjoyable collaboration, although they could have used Zayn’s vocals better.

You can listen to the track over here!