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Posted By Erica Glenn,
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Updated: Wednesday, July 23, 2025
We are excited to share a bold, empowering new single from Essence and Gold Country—an independent Americana artist whose fresh voice approaches folk music with honesty and soul.
“Free” is an anthem of liberation and self-respect—a song for anyone who’s ever had to claw their way out of a relationship that dimmed their light. It’s raw and triumphant, feminine and fierce, blending the storytelling heart of classic Americana with the emotion and musicianship of original folk music.
Co-written by Essence Goldman with Merkley, Rachel Hoiem, and Roman Weingartner, “Free” pulses with a full band, is rich with personality of leading lady Essence Goldman and has some depth with the universal message: You don’t have to shrink to survive. You don’t have to sacrifice your joy to stay in someone else’s version of your life. Essence sings this truth loud, proud, and barefoot—to dance is to heal.
This is the first single from her upcoming album Father’s Daughter, produced by David Simon-Baker (Jackie Greene, ALO). Essence’s past work was featured on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert, and she’s currently a producer on the upcoming feature film about her journey with Bernie and the Believers—in partnership with John Legend and Paramount.
Thanks for supporting women in Americana and independent music. Essence is available for interviews in person (Bay Area) and virtually. Upcoming tour dates include select venues in the SF Bay Area, Pacific Northwest (WA, OR), Nashville and more TBA.
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RIYL: Brandi Carlile, Margo Price, Sheryl Crow, Patty Griffin, Lucinda Williams