Alicia Keys

Songs in A Minor

Alicia, you are Incredible!

Review Score:

(10/10)
When I first heard, "Fallin", I knew this artist had talent. But after finding out that she had studied piano for 7 years, I knew that she had true talent, and that "Songs in A Minor" is a must have. These days it is (very) hard to find an artist who writes, produces, sings and even plays an instrument on their debut album. The entire album is a pure listening enjoyment. Her piano skills alone would catch anyone's attention who enjoys classical piano but then to add her melodic, soulful voice enhances the album by far. I found that the intro, "Piano & I" was truly amazing. The archaic tones of original classical music flipped into a new school beat was brilliant. (Thanks Hoku) Track 2 entitled, "Girlfriend" the best R&B track on the album will have your head bobbin' and your feet tappin'. Not only can you feel the groove with "Girlfriend", you can also relate to what she is saying. Track 11 entitled, "Mr. Man" featuring Jimmy Cozier provides a 20th century blues feel.

My favorite tracks are "Piano and I", "Mr. Man", "Why Do I Feel so Sad", and "A Women's Worth" which are not only well written but performed beautifully. In these songs, her voice reflects tones of Mariah Carey and Jill Scott. If you enjoy either of these artists, you will definitely enjoy "Never Felt This Way", an interlude which is, in one word, fantastic. This album not only reflects her writing skills but the skills of well known artists/producers such as Jermaine Dupri, Kandi Burruss ("Don't Think I'm Not") and Brian McKnight just to name a few. Overall, this album is a classic. This girl has real talent, she's not one of these bubble gum artists who made it because of her looks (I'm hinting at BRITNEY Spears). It may have taken her a couple of years to cop a deal from a major label (J Records), but she made it because she displays not only vocal abilities but instrumental abilities as well. If you like the original R&B music of the and 90's with a twist of new age hip hop, soul, and a little gospel, you definitely need to get, "Songs in A Minor."

-Jordan

More Reviews: