Charlie Freeman, better known as FREE/MAN, has been making waves as a musician and storyteller, blending heartfelt acoustic soul rock with spiritual depth. As his much-anticipated 2025 album Gift in the Shadows prepares to land, FREE/MAN is revisiting his roots by reissuing his debut album Truth. Originally released on May 12, 2018, this retrospective sets the stage for what’s to come—an evolution of music, purpose, and connection.
Among the 15 tracks of Truth, the single Watchtower emerges as a fan-favorite—an anthemic and melodic highlight that perfectly encapsulates Freeman’s artistry. With intricate acoustic arrangements and soulful vocals, Watchtower is an anthem of resilience, reflection, and redemption. The track carries a timeless quality, balancing raw emotion with smooth production that remains as fresh today as it did upon release. FREE/MAN’s talent for delivering messages of duality, love, and overcoming hardship shines through, making Watchtower more than just a song—it’s a call for introspection and strength.
This reissue not only celebrates Truth but also serves as a poignant reminder of Freeman’s journey as a songwriter. Based in London’s Portobello Road, Freeman began writing songs at 19 as a means to process his father’s illness, turning the guitar into both a meditative escape and an emotional outlet. That authenticity flows through his work, making Truth feel deeply personal yet universally relatable. From tracks about suffering and connection to tales of the hero’s journey, the album echoes Freeman’s spiritual awakening and unwavering hope.
While Truth initially marked his debut, it also foreshadowed his wide-ranging ambitions. Following setbacks like the abrupt cancellation of a 26-city tour in China due to the pandemic, FREE/MAN’s comeback feels more purposeful than ever. With Gift in the Shadows arriving in 2025 and extensive tours planned across the USA, Mexico, Argentina, and the UK, Freeman is stepping fully back into the spotlight—this time with renewed energy and an expansive vision.
Beyond music, Charlie Freeman’s creative projects add depth to his mission. His upcoming documentary, in the making since 2019, chronicles his personal and spiritual redemption, while his film The Hook—a rock ‘n’ roll tale of family and excess—highlights his multifaceted talents as an actor and musician. Adding further intrigue, the fictional band Brothers Blonde from The Hook will release singles and an EP next year.
Freeman’s reissued Truth is more than nostalgia; it’s a bridge to his current and future artistry. By revisiting Watchtower and the full album, fans old and new can reconnect with the themes of freedom, love, and perseverance that form the cornerstone of his work.
As FREE/MAN reclaims his place on global stages and screens, the release of Gift in the Shadows promises a powerful next chapter—one where music, film, and spirituality intersect to deliver a message of healing and connection.
Be sure to revisit Watchtower and the full Truth album, streaming now, and stay tuned for what lies ahead. Follow Charlie Freeman on Instagram @charliefreemanmusic for updates on his music, films, and 2025 tour dates.
