<h1>Freedom '90: The Supermodels Who Redefined Music Videos</h1>
<p><strong>In the annals of music video history, few productions stand as tall, or as stylish, as George Michael's iconic "Freedom! '90." More than just a visual accompaniment to a hit song, it was a cultural phenomenon that inextricably linked the worlds of music and high fashion, thanks to the unforgettable presence of the era's most celebrated supermodels. Three decades on, the impact of these models in Freedom '90 continues to resonate, cementing its place as a timeless masterpiece and a pivotal moment in pop culture.</strong></p>
<p>Released in 1990, "Freedom! '90" wasn't just a catchy tune; it was a powerful statement from George Michael about his struggles with identity, artistic growth, and the pressures of stardom. But what truly elevated the video from memorable to legendary was his ingenious decision to feature the five biggest supermodels of the 1990s, allowing them to lip-sync his lyrics. This bold move not only created an enduring visual spectacle but also amplified the song's message, turning the models in Freedom '90 into more than just faces; they became symbols of an era.</p>
<h2>Table of Contents</h2>
<ul>
<li><a href="#the-genesis">The Genesis of an Icon: George Michael's Vision</a></li>
<li><a href="#the-supermodels-assemble">The Supermodels Assemble: A Casting Coup</a></li>
<ul>
<li><a href="#naomi-campbell">Naomi Campbell: The Fierce Walk</a></li>
<li><a href="#christy-turlington">Christy Turlington: The Elegant Muse</a></li>
<li><a href="#linda-evangelista">Linda Evangelista: The Chameleon</a></li>
<li><a href="#cindy-crawford">Cindy Crawford: The All-American Beauty</a></li>
<li><a href="#tatjana-patitz">Tatjana Patitz: The Enigmatic Presence</a></li>
</ul>
<li><a href="#behind-the-scenes">Behind the Scenes: Filming Freedom! '90</a></li>
<li><a href="#cultural-impact">Cultural Impact and Legacy: More Than Just a Music Video</a></li>
<li><a href="#freedom-in-numbers">"Freedom! '90" in Numbers: Chart Success and Beyond</a></li>
<li><a href="#enduring-power">The Enduring Power of the Supermodel Era</a></li>
<li><a href="#where-are-they-now">Where Are They Now? The Supermodels Decades Later</a></li>
<li><a href="#timeless-allure">The Timeless Allure of Freedom! '90</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="the-genesis">The Genesis of an Icon: George Michael's Vision</h2>
By 1990, George Michael was a global superstar, but he was also at a crossroads. Having achieved immense fame with Wham! and his debut solo album "Faith," he felt constrained by the demands of celebrity and the music industry's relentless promotional machine. He wanted his art to speak for itself, without the need for his personal image to be at the forefront. This desire for artistic freedom and a critique of the very fame he had attained became the core theme of his album "Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1," and particularly, the song "Freedom! '90."</p>
Michael's solution for the video was revolutionary. Instead of appearing in it himself, he decided to let his music be represented by the faces that truly dominated the cultural landscape at the time: supermodels. This audacious concept was born from his observation of the fashion world, where models were increasingly becoming celebrities in their own right, transcending the traditional role of mere clothes hangers. He saw an opportunity to make a profound statement by having these universally recognized figures lip-sync his deeply personal lyrics, effectively creating a distance between himself and the commercial machinery he was rebelling against. The choice of models in Freedom '90 was not just aesthetic; it was a deliberate artistic and conceptual decision that would forever alter the landscape of music videos.</p>
<h2 id="the-supermodels-assemble">The Supermodels Assemble: A Casting Coup</h2>
The idea was brilliant, but the execution required persuading the world's most sought-after women to participate. George Michael, known for his charm and influence, personally convinced Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, and Tatjana Patitz to appear in his music video. These women were not just models; they were household names, gracing magazine covers, walking the most prestigious runways, and commanding unprecedented fees – reportedly banking $15,000 a day, a testament to their unparalleled status. Their collective presence in "Freedom! '90" was an unprecedented gathering of fashion royalty, making it an iconic supermodel moment of the 1990s.</p>
<h3 id="naomi-campbell">Naomi Campbell: The Fierce Walk</h3>
Naomi Campbell, with her unparalleled walk and commanding presence, was already a force of nature in the fashion world. Born in London in 1970, she rose to prominence in the late 1980s, breaking barriers as one of the first black supermodels to achieve global recognition. Her segment in "Freedom! '90" features her striking a pose and confidently lip-syncing, embodying the fierce independence that defined her career. Campbell's inclusion was crucial, representing the cutting edge of fashion and unapologetic power.</p>
<h3 id="christy-turlington">Christy Turlington: The Elegant Muse</h3>
Christy Turlington, known for her classic beauty and serene elegance, brought a sophisticated grace to the video. Born in California in 1969, Turlington was a favorite of designers and photographers alike, embodying a timeless allure. In "Freedom! '90," she is memorably seen stepping toward a window's light with her hair gelled back, a vision of contemplative beauty. Her segment perfectly captured the song's introspection, showcasing a different facet of supermodel appeal.</p>
<h3 id="linda-evangelista">Linda Evangelista: The Chameleon</h3>
Linda Evangelista, often hailed as the "chameleon" of the fashion world due to her ever-changing hairstyles and versatile looks, was a true artist in front of the camera. Born in Canada in 1965, Evangelista famously stated, "We don't wake up for less than $10,000 a day," a quote that perfectly encapsulated the era's supermodel power. In the video, she opens the "Freedom! '90" sequence sporting a platinum blonde crop and an oversized black turtleneck, immediately setting a high-fashion tone. Her ability to transform made her a captivating presence.</p>
<h3 id="cindy-crawford">Cindy Crawford: The All-American Beauty</h3>
Cindy Crawford, with her iconic mole and wholesome yet undeniably sexy image, was the quintessential American supermodel. Born in Illinois in 1966, she became a household name through her extensive commercial work, magazine covers, and the popular MTV show "House of Style." Her unforgettable scene in "Freedom! '90" shows her stepping out of a bathtub, a moment that became instantly iconic and cemented her status as a global sex symbol. Crawford's accessibility combined with her undeniable glamour made her a perfect fit for the video's broad appeal.</p>
<h3 id="tatjana-patitz">Tatjana Patitz: The Enigmatic Presence</h3>
Tatjana Patitz, a German model born in 1966, possessed a unique, ethereal beauty and an enigmatic quality that set her apart. While perhaps less overtly commercial than some of her peers, Patitz was a favorite of high-fashion photographers and brought an artistic edge to the supermodel pantheon. Her understated yet powerful presence in "Freedom! '90" contributed to the video's diverse portrayal of beauty and strength. Sadly, the iconic supermodel passed away on Wednesday at 56 years old, a loss deeply felt by the fashion world and fans of the video.</p>
<p>Beyond these five, the video also featured male models, further diversifying its visual narrative and emphasizing the collective power of these fashion figures. The worlds of fashion and music truly collided in 1990 when George Michael had the top models of the time star in his music video for "Freedom! '90."</p>
<h2 id="behind-the-scenes">Behind the Scenes: Filming Freedom! '90</h2>
The making of "Freedom! '90" was a logistical feat, bringing together these global icons under the direction of David Fincher, who would later become a renowned film director. The concept was simple yet brilliant: each model would appear in a different setting, lip-syncing various parts of the song, with symbolic elements like a burning jukebox and exploding guitar. The supermodels themselves have reflected on the experience, with Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, and Christy Turlington explaining in Apple TV+'s "The Super Models" documentary how they came to star in George Michael's "Freedom! '90."</p>
Stylist Camilla Nickerson played a crucial role in shaping the distinct looks for each model, ensuring their individual personalities shone through while maintaining a cohesive high-fashion aesthetic. The filming process, though seemingly effortless on screen, involved meticulous planning and coordination to capture the essence of each supermodel and integrate it seamlessly into the video's narrative. It was supermodels galore at the making of George Michael’s “Freedom! ’90,” a testament to the sheer star power involved.</p>
<h2 id="cultural-impact">Cultural Impact and Legacy: More Than Just a Music Video</h2>
"Freedom! '90" has had a lasting cultural impact far beyond its initial release. It wasn't just a music video; it was a cultural touchstone that blurred the lines between music, fashion, and celebrity. The video as the media has portrayed became a catalyst for change in the world of music videos, proving that a compelling visual narrative could be achieved without the artist's direct on-screen presence. This allowed artists more creative freedom and opened doors for conceptual music videos.</p>
The video also solidified the supermodel phenomenon of the 1990s. Before "Freedom! '90," models were often anonymous faces. After it, they were bona fide celebrities, recognized globally. This was further amplified when Gianni Versace closed his Milan Fall 1991 show with the song and its video, a powerful endorsement that cemented the symbiotic relationship between high fashion and pop culture. The video became synonymous with the glamour and aspirational lifestyle of the era, inspiring countless fashion spreads and pop culture references.</p>
With George Michael's passing, the world often reminisces about his incredible legacy, and of course, the "Freedom! '90" video is a top topic of discussion and remembrance. It stands as a vibrant tribute to his artistry and his ability to innovate, forever linked with the iconic models in Freedom '90 who helped bring his vision to life.</p>
<h2 id="freedom-in-numbers">"Freedom! '90" in Numbers: Chart Success and Beyond</h2>
While its cultural impact is undeniable, "Freedom! '90" also achieved significant commercial success. It was the second US single from the album "Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1." The song had contrasting fortunes each side of the Atlantic; it peaked at number 28 on the UK Singles Chart, but was a major success on both the US Billboard Hot 100 and US Cash Box Top 100, reaching number 8 and 7 respectively. This disparity highlighted its particular resonance with the American audience, perhaps due to the strong presence of the American supermodels like Cindy Crawford and Christy Turlington.</p&p>
The original video is 6:30 long, but a shorter version was made available for radio consumption, demonstrating its adaptability for different media platforms. The song celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2020, prompting renewed appreciation for its message and its groundbreaking visuals. The enduring popularity of "Freedom! '90" is not just about its chart performance but its sustained relevance and continuous rediscovery by new generations, drawn to its powerful message and the timeless allure of the models in Freedom '90.</p>
<h2 id="enduring-power">The Enduring Power of the Supermodel Era</h2>
The 1990s were a golden age for supermodels, a time when they transcended the runway to become global celebrities. "Freedom! '90" perfectly captured and amplified this phenomenon. These women were not just beautiful; they exuded confidence, intelligence, and a distinct personality that resonated with millions. They became aspirational figures, embodying a new kind of female power and independence.</p>
The video showcased their individual strengths while also celebrating their collective power. It was a moment where fashion truly met pop culture on a grand scale, demonstrating the influence models could wield. The image of these powerful women lip-syncing George Michael's introspective lyrics created a compelling juxtaposition, adding layers of meaning to both the song and their public personas. This era, epitomized by the models in Freedom '90, proved that beauty could be a platform for influence and cultural commentary.</p>
<h2 id="where-are-they-now">Where Are They Now? The Supermodels Decades Later</h2>
Now, three decades later, the catwalk stars who made "Freedom! '90" so memorable have reflected on their experiences and their lives since. The question of "How the years have treated the supermodels, and where they are now?" is a common one, and it's clear that their impact extends far beyond their modeling careers. While Tatjana Patitz sadly passed away, the others have continued to evolve, branching into various fields while maintaining their iconic status.</p>
<table border="1">
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Model</th>
<th>Key Post-Freedom! '90 Career Highlights</th>
<th>Current Endeavors</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Naomi Campbell</td>
<td>Continued global modeling, acting, music, philanthropy, reality TV judge ("The Face").</td>
<td>Still active in high fashion, advocate for diversity, mother.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christy Turlington</td>
<td>Continued modeling, public health advocacy, founded Every Mother Counts (maternal health non-profit).</td>
<td>Filmmaker, activist, still occasionally models for select campaigns.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Linda Evangelista</td>
<td>Continued high-fashion modeling, known for her versatility and iconic campaigns.</td>
<td>Recently returned to modeling after a period away due to health issues, advocating for self-acceptance.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cindy Crawford</td>
<td>Continued modeling, entrepreneurship (Meaningful Beauty skincare), acting, philanthropy.</td>
<td>Still a prominent figure in beauty and fashion, mother to model Kaia Gerber.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tatjana Patitz</td>
<td>Continued modeling for high-fashion brands, animal welfare advocacy.</td>
<td>Sadly passed away in January 2023, leaving behind a legacy of unique beauty and dedication to animal rights.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Their continued relevance is a testament to their enduring appeal and the powerful platform that "Freedom! '90" provided. The launch of Apple TV+'s "The Super Models" documentary further underscores the public's fascination with these women and their pivotal role in shaping pop culture.</p>
<h2 id="timeless-allure">The Timeless Allure of Freedom! '90</h2>
Twenty-five years ago, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of George Michael's 1990 music video "Freedom! '90," its supermodel stars were asked to reveal what filming the video was really like. Their anecdotes, combined with archival footage and new interviews, continue to shed light on this extraordinary production. The music video for George Michael's "Freedom! '90" is now renowned as one of the most iconic of its time, and the song celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2020.</p>
The enduring appeal of "Freedom! '90" lies in its masterful blend of artistry, celebrity, and a message that remains relevant. George Michael's decision to step back and let the models in Freedom '90 carry the visual narrative was a stroke of genius, creating a piece of art that transcended its medium. It's a powerful reminder of a time when music videos were truly innovative and when supermodels were at the zenith of their cultural influence. The collaboration was a perfect storm of talent and timing, resulting in a video that continues to captivate and inspire.</p>
<p>From the catchy song that addressed his struggles with identity, artistic growth, and stardom in a meaningful way, to the mesmerizing visuals of the world's most beautiful women, "Freedom! '90" remains a masterpiece. It's a piece of pop culture history that continues to be celebrated, a testament to George Michael's vision and the unforgettable contribution of the models in Freedom '90. It's more than just a music video; it's a legacy.</p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
George Michael's "Freedom! '90" is a landmark in music video history, forever etched in our collective memory thanks to its groundbreaking concept and the unparalleled star power of the supermodels it featured. From Naomi's fierce strut to Cindy's iconic bath scene, Linda's transformative look, Christy's elegant gaze, and Tatjana's enigmatic presence, the models in Freedom '90 didn't just lip-sync; they embodied the song's message and cemented their own legendary status. This video was a powerful fusion of music and fashion, a bold artistic statement, and a defining moment for an entire generation.</p>
Its impact continues to resonate, influencing pop culture and reminding us of an era when music videos were at their most creative and supermodels were truly global icons. The legacy of "Freedom! '90" is a testament to George Michael's genius and the enduring allure of the women who helped him tell his story. What are your favorite moments from the "Freedom! '90" video, or which supermodel's segment resonated most with you? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and explore more articles on iconic music videos and their cultural significance on our site!</p>
