Set Me Free

The song "Set Me Free" by Utopia from their 1979 album Adventures in Utopia holds a unique place in the band's history as their only Top 40 hit in the United States, peaking at No. 27 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1980. In an interview with Songfacts, bassist Kasim Sulton revealed that the song, though sounding like a plea for freedom in a romantic relationship, was actually inspired by his frustration with Bearsville Records. Sulton, who wrote and sang lead on the track, was desperate to pursue a solo album, but the label, which had signed all four Utopia members individually, rebuffed his ambitions. He channeled this professional struggle into the lyrics, making "Set Me Free" a subtle rebellion against contractual constraints. The collaborative nature of Utopia shines through in the song’s creation, as Sulton brought the initial idea, and the band—consisting of Todd Rundgren, Roger Powell, John "Willie" Wilcox, and Sulton—worked together to refine it, splitting songwriting credits equally.

Another layer of trivia comes from the album’s broader context. According to Todd Rundgren, Adventures in Utopia was originally intended as a soundtrack for a TV show the band was developing, a project that never materialized despite being recorded in a studio equipped with video equipment. This ambition to blend music with visual media reflects Utopia’s experimental spirit, blending progressive rock with pop and disco influences to appeal to both their cult following and a wider audience. On social media, fans on platforms like Todd Rundgren’s Utopia Fan Group often cite "Set Me Free" as a standout track for its catchy hooks and Sulton’s emotive vocals, with some sharing nostalgic stories of hearing it on the radio during its chart run. The song’s B-side, "Umbrella Man," also written by the band, is less discussed but cherished by diehard fans for its quirky charm.

Utopia was formed in 1973 by Todd Rundgren, a multi-instrumentalist and producer already known for his solo work and hits like "Hello It’s Me." Rundgren, born in Philadelphia in 1948, began his musical journey in the 1960s with the garage rock band Nazz, which he formed while still in his teens. After Nazz disbanded, Rundgren launched a solo career, releasing his debut album Runt in 1970, which showcased his knack for melody and studio innovation. His desire to explore more complex, progressive sounds led to the creation of Utopia, initially called Todd Rundgren’s Utopia, with a fluid lineup that included synthesists and jazz-trained musicians. By 1976, the band stabilized into a quartet with Rundgren, Sulton, Powell, and Wilcox, shifting toward a more accessible rock and pop sound while retaining their progressive roots. This evolution set the stage for Adventures in Utopia and their breakthrough with "Set Me Free."

Kasim Sulton, who joined Utopia in 1976, brought his own musical history to the group. Before Utopia, he played piano and vocals for Cherry Vanilla and guitar for the Brooklyn-based band Sleepy Hollow. Roger Powell, the keyboardist, had worked as a protégé for Robert Moog, contributing to synthesizer development, while drummer Willie Wilcox had recorded with Rundgren and toured with Hall & Oates. Together, the quartet’s diverse backgrounds fueled Utopia’s genre-blending approach. The band released nine albums during their initial run, disbanding in 1986 but reuniting briefly in 1992 and 2011 for live performances. Rundgren, the band’s driving force, continued his solo career and production work, collaborating with artists like Meat Loaf and XTC, while Sulton, Powell, and Wilcox pursued their own projects, with Sulton notably touring with Joan Jett and Meat Loaf.

For fans looking to connect with Utopia’s legacy, the band’s official website is todd-rundgren.com/utopia.html, though it primarily focuses on Rundgren’s broader career. Social media presence is limited, but Todd Rundgren’s official accounts include Facebook, Instagram, and X, where he occasionally shares updates about Utopia reunions or archival releases. Kasim Sulton is active on Facebook and Instagram, often posting about his solo work and Utopia memories. Fan communities thrive on platforms like the Todd Rundgren’s Utopia Fan Group on Facebook, where enthusiasts discuss the band’s discography and share rare live footage. Another fan hub is Rundgren Radio, a website and podcast dedicated to Rundgren and Utopia, offering interviews and concert updates. These spaces keep the spirit of Utopia alive for longtime devotees and new listeners alike.