Bootsy Collins, Buckethead & Jennifer Batten Unite on Funk-Rock Anthem “Free Bucket”
GRAMMY-winning funk icon Bootsy Collins joins forces with guitar legendsBuckethead and Jennifer Batten for the new single “FREE BUCKET.” Out today, the track delivers a high-voltage blend of rock and funk that transcends genres while celebrating the power of collaboration. “Free Bucket” is available now on all major streaming platforms via Bootzilla Records/Roc Nation
(listen to it here).
Following the success of Bootsy and Buckethead’s recent collaboration of “Metal Health” (the title track from Bootsy’s forthcoming album), “FREE BUCKET” amplifies the creative chemistry between Bootsy, Buckethead, and now Batten—three boundary-breaking innovators who have each reshaped the sonic landscape. Written by William E. Collins and Brian Carroll and produced by Bootsy, the single marks a bold new chapter in their ongoing musical odyssey.
Fueled by fiery guitar exchanges between Buckethead and Batten, and anchored by Bootsy’s bass thunder, “FREE BUCKET” fuses rock intensity with funk’s deep-pocket groove. The result is an interstellar jam that invites listeners to break loose from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.
“‘FREE BUCKET’ is my salute to Buckethead for all he has been through, and he is still standing and touching people’s hearts and souls,” said Bootsy. “Sometimes we call a studio session, and it turns out to be a talking session being thankful and emotional and no work gets done. But the next day, we go full on after the mental stress is let out. Creating this ‘Metal Health’ album has returned the fun to us once again. People will hear and feel the joy!”
He adds, “So again, ‘Metal Health’ is allowing us to step out of our comfort zone and be who they thought we were! Total Goner’s Jennifer Batten stepped in and added her style of madness which enhanced both Bucket and my playing style. Buckethead was the one that suggested she be on the ‘FREE BUCKET’ song. Bucket’s crowds are large, but his circle is small. So, I was a little shocked that he wanted his childhood crush on the song because he always admired her and her playing style. Jennifer is a class act, and we hope she will consider being a part of: ‘The Rock-Ness-Monsters!’ Bootsy baby!!!”
Celebrated for her work with Michael Jackson as lead guitarist for three world tours, for recording and touring with Jeff Beck, her recent residency in the Cirque du Soleil show Zumanity, and her acclaimed solo albums, Batten brings her signature blend of technical brilliance and emotional fire to the collaboration.
Says Batten, “What an absolute joy to be working with Bootsy Collins! It’s one of those connections that kind of happened out of the blue. He sent me the framework of this tune, and I found inspiration instantly powered by his groove and let it rip.”
“FREE BUCKET” continues Bootsy’s mission to unite artists and audiences through sound that uplifts, heals, and inspires. With over five decades in music—from his foundational work with James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelicto his modern ventures through Bootzilla Records and the Funk Not Fight initiative—Bootsy remains a global ambassador for creativity, peace, and funk-powered love.
For more information about Bootsy Collins, visit: www.bootsycollins.com.
ABOUT BOOTSY COLLINS:
Bootsy Collins is a GRAMMY-winning funk legend whose career began in 1969 as bassist for James Brown, before co-creating the sound and spectacle of Parliament-Funkadelic alongside George Clinton. Known for his star-shaped glasses, cosmic bass, and Afro-futuristic flair, Bootsy redefined music, fashion, and culture. His influence spans generations—from Prince and Dr. Dre to Thundercat and Silk Sonic, the latter of which he helped name and shape. Today, Bootsy remains on the cultural vanguard through his Roc Nation imprint, Bootzilla Records, and innovative projects like Funktropolis (a digital AR/VR world), a docuseries, and an autobiography with HarperCollins. Alongside his longtime manager and wife Patti Collins, he champions philanthropy and empowerment through initiatives like Funk Not Fight, using art, music, and love to spark change.
