The popularity of the reality television format hasn’t always translated into the best of sales outcomes for its tenants (see: Gwen Stefani, Jennifer Lopez, Christina Aguilera, Shakira, etc.), but that doesn’t – nor should it – stop them from trying.
The latest to try her hand at the table? Alicia Keys.
Four years after dividing critics and fans alike with her #1 album, ‘Girl on Fire,’ the Grammy-winning diva’s new album is finally ‘Here.’ Birthing gems like ‘Holy War’ and ‘Blended Family,’ the RCA reared set arrived on the shoulders of an unconventional campaign – one that’s seen the singer/songwriter reintroduce herself to the buying public via an “anti-makeup” movement and stint as a judge on NBC’s reality singing competition ‘The Voice.’
If the tactics will translate into sales is yet to be seen.
Yes, the move’s kept her in conversation and even helped fuel interest in “Keys – the celebrity,” but it hasn’t done the same commercially. In fact, what the ‘In Common’-led opus does not have in common with its five predecessors is the ability to boast a Hot 100-charting single prior to release. Some will argue this fact many attributes to the lack of hype around the album…
Alicia Keys may be “here,” but buzz for the project is not.
Yes, sales look promising after reports indicated the album shot to the top of digital charts upon its release yesterday, but history has taught us not to place our bets too soon as sales alone can often be misleading.
With this in mind, we turn to you – That Grape Juice faithful – for your weigh in. After all you’ve seen and heard we’re curious to know:
Y’all love to sleep on Alicia but what other R&B singer is charting other than Alicia, Beyoncé, and “Rihanna” Alicia will be fine because the music is good and quality. Alicia always delivers on albums so support R&B.
Nope
YES! I love it. No, it’s not the Alicia Keys we started with, but it’s def a more socially conscience album. I love that she speaks on being in a blended family, from a step mother’s perspective. I give this album about a 4/5.
Exactly people slept on the fact she finally addressed that matter in a song when everyone was calling her a home wrecker. Listen to the lyrics ya!! there are messages in songs.
Already bought it!
Didn’t know she had an album out
It’s not my Alicia. But she’s saying something. You have to question if it’s sincere or jumping on the bandwagon because this socially conscious thing is becoming a trend.. however, I did enjoy it. Is it entertaining.. not very. But is it touching and nutritious.. in some places yes.
Standout tracks are Kill Your Mama, Holy War.
I won’t buy it cos I have an Apple Music subscription.. sorry
Girl can’t be herself!!! HOW DID THAT SLIP MY MIND. And the Gliw interlude
Nope. She hasn’t stopped screaming since ” no one”. Sometimes less is more
Got my digital and physical copy. Alicia has an always will be a favorite of mine! Amazing album!
I’ll check it out for her album
I’m listening to it now and I think I’m going to buy it, it’s good especially pawn it all which gives me the early 2000’s Alicia. She’s doing the same thing Solange and Beyoncé are doing with the empowerment, but nobody give her her props because she really been doing it since she started. Go buy it and support you won’t regret it