Bobby Newberry and drag queen Rhea Litre are out with the ultimate party jam for Halloween! Their new song, “Freak,” encourages listeners to let their inner FREAK out and let ‘em fly; to be authentic and unapologetic in yourself.
The song also motivates listeners to dance, sweat and have a fun time. “While ‘Ride’ had that cute ease-your-way-into-a-day-party vibe,” says Newberry, referring to the single he released earlier this summer, “’Freak’ is a full night-out-2am club record!” The energy of the track is echoed in the accompanying music video, co-directed by Newberry and Beno Anastacio. It showcases Newberry’s dancing prowess in a high-octane clip that features him and Rhea Litre bumping and grinding alongside an all-male cast of dancers.
Produced by Sam J Garfield and mastered by Jaimie Velez (best known for his work with Ariana Grande and Lizzo), Bobby Newberry’s “Freak” featuring Rhea Litre is available on Apple Music, Spotify, and all digital platforms. The video is available on YouTube.
“I’ve never done a full dance record like this”, continues Newberry from his Los Angeles home. “Freak is my first.” He wrote the hook and melodies for “Freak” himself and then worked with Litre on her verse. “We had such so much fun in the collaboration. Rhea sings, raps, and talks on the track and she smashes it! ‘Freak’ may just be the ultimate party jam for Halloween!
The video was shot at the Peppermint Club in LA. “We filmed on Friday the 13th which was a little spooky for superstitious me but Rhea said “no, this is freak honey, let’s do it!”
Newberry and Litre set out to bring the heated passion of the song into the video. There’s no real story being told; it’s meant to offer a peek into an exclusive members-only underground show experience. “We all worked so hard on the visual,” Newberry says. “Marco Marco killed with the costuming. Sean Boyd was the Director of Photography and his lighting in the video is simply amazing. I can’t wait for everyone to see this!”
Bobby Newberry began his career in the music industry as a choreographer for Eminem. He would go on to work with a string of the world’s top artists including Nicki Minaj, The Pussycat Dolls, Missy Elliot, and Lil’ Wayne. His choreography work has been seen on TV in Dancing with the Stars and X-Factor.
In 2014, Bobby Newberry released his first single and music video, “Dirrty Up (featuring Jessie and The Toy Boys).” It was soon after followed by his debut EP, The Newberry Special.
Freak is the second single from his upcoming EP. The dancers in the “Freak” music video are Robbie Blue, Adam Vesperman, Michael Metuakore and Mackenzie Green. Glam and grooming by Dalton Heinrich.
“The choreography was so intense, I literally ripped my pants completely down the crotch and had no time to do anything about it,” laughs Newberry. “I was like, well, it is what it is.” If viewers look closely in a few shots towards the end of the video, they will see Bobby’s pants are, indeed, fully ripped.
We spoke with Bobby from his LA home.
What is it about dance that makes you feel passionate?
It’s the music that moves me. Music to me is literally everything! When I hear a song that I love, I feel so many emotions and I can’t not dance. It’s the craziest thing. Even as a kid I would start dancing and singing in public. My mom would be like, “Stop! You are embarrassing!”
Is that why you are making the jump from choreographer to singer?
Music is so powerful. It can change moods instantly! In the am, when I’m tired, I can play fun songs and my mood lifts. Or, if I’m sad, I actually listen to a ballad and just sit in my feels. Writing my music is one of the best gifts ever. I always feel so grateful and blessed that I can write a song.
What inspired you to take listeners on a “Ride” this summer?
I wanted people to feel happy and what is better than a crush? The excitement, the newness, the rush!
We checked out your IG and you appear to have quite the crush!
Tj paradise is literally the best guy I have ever known in my life. He’s such a king. I love him forever.
How do you guys keep those gushy lust feelings alive in a long-term relationship?
We love to travel a lot and experience new things together. It’s our favorite thing to do and that always keeps things fresh and fun. We LOVE London and can’t wait to be back!
What are your thoughts on JLO and Ben Affleck allegedly reuniting?
I’m here for it! I believe in connections and vibes and it’s clear they have one!
How do you feel about 98 Degrees releasing new music? Can Boybands become Dadbands?
I think music should have no age or agism. A good song is a good song; a good album is a good album, right? I fully support!
Who are you listening to these days?
Dennis Lloyd, Doja cat, AJR, Audrey Nuna and Nicki Minaj.
Why should listeners add “Ride” to their playlists?
It’s a good song! It is festive, feel good, happy, with a fun melody and cool production. It should make you dance and, hopefully, smile.
Follow Bobby Newberry on Instagram @ bobbynewberry
YASS Magazine 