From The Vault: Christina Aguilera – ‘Beautiful’

Join us today as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of a classic Pop album.

This week’s From The Vault is the undeniable standout track from Christina Aguilera’s coming-of-age album, ‘Stripped.’ We give you ‘Beautiful’.

Serving as the second single from Aguilera’s 2002 blockbuster album, ‘Beautiful’ is a Soulful Pop ballad with Rock sensibilities. It was written and produced by Linda Perry, who initially wanted to use the song for her own singing career.

A very successful track for Xtina – it peaked at #2 in the US and reached the top of the charts in the UK, Canada, and Australia. It quickly became an empowerment anthem for many and to this day it is highly regarded by the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as by advocates for body positivity.

Directed by Jonas Âkerlund, the visual for the single was a clear departure from the boisterous first single ‘Dirrty.’

Viewers find the songbird wearing black in an empty apartment, while various scenes of tormented young people are interwoven. It was well-received, notably because of its normalized and non-sensational portrayal of queer people.

Earlier this week, the diva released another version of the video, this time focusing on the effects social media can have on the mental health of the youth.

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Xtina’s vocal prowess earned her respect from her debut. Yet, with ‘Stripped’ and particularly this song, she let her voice be heard in another way. Indeed, she wasn’t afraid to tackle sensitive issues and speak her mind, and back then it helped set her apart from her competition.

Two decades on, ‘Stripped’ remains an impeccable effort that is still fresh and modern both sonically and thematically.

Timeless song, timeless talent.

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