Sophie Ellis-Bextor has revealed the video for her latest single, Freedom of the Night, a disco-pop anthem that pays homage to her iconic Murder on the Dancefloor video from the early 2000s. This new track represents Ellis-Bextor’s confident return to her signature musical style and features a video shot at London’s Rivoli Ballroom by long-time collaborator Sophie Muller. The video blends nostalgia with a fresh perspective, incorporating themes from her past work, such as the dance competition setting, while spotlighting Ellis-Bextor as a competitive parent championing her fictional daughter’s efforts.
Reflecting on the new video, Ellis-Bextor expressed her delight in continuing the narrative started in the Murder on the Dancefloor video, where she originally portrayed a character using cunning tactics to win. Now playing the part of an equally determined mother, she ensures her daughter’s success in the dance contest, a scenario enhanced by the choreography of Polly Bennett.
In addition to the new song and video, Ellis-Bextor has announced her most extensive UK headline tour, slated for May and June 2025. This tour includes a notable performance at London’s prestigious Royal Albert Hall. The tour begins in Glasgow and spans 15 cities, concluding with what Ellis-Bextor describes as a dream performance in London. Tickets are set to go on sale through various presale events and general sales at the end of October and early November.
Ellis-Bextor’s musical prowess is well-established, with a career spanning 25 years, encapsulating five top ten albums and eight hit singles. Her new single, Freedom of the Night, taps into her disco and dance roots, made possible by collaborations with esteemed figures like Biff Stannard, Duck Blackwell, and Shura, among others.
Recently, Ellis-Bextor has enjoyed renewed success, particularly with her 2001 hit Murder on the Dancefloor, which was spotlighted in the film Saltburn and experienced a resurgence in the charts. This success has extended into her live performances, with notable appearances at international festivals and collaborations with artists like Nile Rodgers and Peggy Gou.
Looking forward, Ellis-Bextor is set to support Take That in Australia and The Human League in the UK before her solo tour commences. Her influence and popularity continue to grow, not only through her music but also her ventures into writing, podcasting, and philanthropy, all contributing to a multifaceted and enduring career.