Today’s From The Vault pick salutes an artist that has consistently has had the world talking for over a decade. For better AND for worse.
Chris Brown’s 2009 comeback single ‘I Can Transform Ya’ is this week’s pick.
The track marked a very important chapter in Brown’s career as it was his first official release following “that” infamous incident.
Produced by Swizz Beatz, co-penned by Poo Bear together with CB, and blessed with a guest spot from Lil’ Wayne, the cut served as the launching single from Chris’ third album ‘Graffiti.’
Commercially, it became the star’s eighth Top 20 single in the US and a #9 charting single on the UK R&B chart. Not “bad” considering all the odds that were against him at the time. Yet, also not as “good” as perhaps hoped for those hoping his woes would quickly be put behind him.
*********
Joseph Kahn was tapped to direct the ninja-inspired video for the single which also referenced the ‘Transformers’ series.
Taking a more literal approach to the track’s lyrics, Brown and his crew are transformed into the various things he sings about.
The visual also has boasts stellar choreography, as it is often showcased with C. Breezy.
*********
As time goes by, it’s evident Chris Brown’s light is not primed to dim anytime soon. After all, who’d have thought in late ’09 that he’d still be a “thing” today?
Though not the formidable chart force he once was, his potency in the Urban arena is unparalleled and he easily stands today as R&B’s main male attraction. [Even if somewhat by default].
We’d love to see more consistency from him (namely cleaner, leaner roll-outs, and sonically cohesive projects), but we can’t knock his hustle and attempts at creativity. Especially at a time when so few are even trying.
