Candi Staton was 36 years old, a mother of five children, and trapped in an abusive marriage when songwriter David Crawford penned a tune that would save her life, as well as those of countless other women.
“Young Hearts Run Free” was recorded in the disco style of the times – Four on the floor drumbeat, soaring strings and bright, punchy horns – but it was a ballad for women who were yearning for independence.
The song became a Billboard Soul Singles chart No. 1 on June 5, 1976 and it made Candi Staton a household name.
Check out Day 6 of our #BMM30 series as we look back on the importance of “Young Hearts Run Free.”
