Missed the Mark....My Favorite Female Recording Artist

This past Tuesday Kelly Clarkson released her third studio album. Although the cd has not been welcomed with rave reviews, I offer Kelly this blog topic as a reminder that even the most iconic female singers have had a stumble or two in their careers. Kelly, if this album is not the commercial success that you hoped; don't worry; you are simply following in the footsteps of many female recording artist who have fallen victim to the artistically great album, but not too well received publicly. Case in point, Janet Jackson, Madonna, and Mariah Carey, the albums were 2004's Damita Jo, 1992's Erotica, and 2001's Glitter. Lyrically, I think these albums are great; some the production maybe questionable, but I believe these three albums really capture the true character and vulnerabilities vocally of each artist. Unfortunately, circumstance clouded the public's response to each one of these albums. First, in 1993 Madonna released her infamous SEX book. The book was so over the top and lude that it recieved a lot of negative public attention. Consequently her album sales suffered as a result the the backlash to SEX. Given the time frame the album was released, it was probably Madonna's most ardent statement about feminine sexual power. Take these lyrics for example, "Once you put your hand in the flame You can never be the sameThere's a certain satisfaction In a little bit of pain I can see you understand I can tell that you're the same If you're afraid, well rise above I only hurt the ones I love." Like so many female recording artist today, Madonna is placing herself in the driver's seat. She is in control of her sexual wants and desires, not men. Another notable, but widely overlooked track on this album was the song 'Why's it so Hard'. Here we see Madonna giving the world her insights on racism. For example, "What do I have to do to be accepted/What do I have to say/What do I have to do to be respected/How do I have to play/What do I have to look like to feel I'm equal/Where do I have to go/What club do I have to join to prove I'm worthy/Who do I have to know/[Chorus:]I'm telling you brothers, sisters/Why can't we learn to challenge the system/Without living in pain/Brothers, sisters/Why can't we learn to accept that we're different/Before it's too late /Why's it so damn hard / I believe this songs is one of Madonna's best. She makes a poignant and especially relevant political and social statement. In 1992 the exigence for a song such as this one was so needed, given the outcome of the Rodney King Trial, affirmative action cases were taking national precedent, and it was an election year. So, this song came at a time when [we] as Americans were questioning our social institutions, seemingly the fabric that holds us together.

Secondly in 2001, we witnessed a very public Mariah Carey breakdown as she lost a few of her marbles due to overwork and stress. Or at least that is what her publicist would like us [her adoring fans] to believe. Once again the album was great, classic 80s sound, especially when the 80's throwback sound was so popular. Yet, Mariah's venture into 80sdom was not well received. Her public meltdown, in part may have been a consequence of her movie, Glitter's, poor, poor reviews and her bizarre public antics contributed to this albums downfall. Once again, great album, but bad timing. Lyrically the album was not a departure from Maria's typical song arrangements. Her songs usually build to an explosive ending. If that was not a good description, consider these songs from some of her previous work, 'Vision of love, Love takes time, Can't Let Go, Without You, One Sweet Day, Butterfly, My All, and Can't take that Away,' they all have the same melodic sound that intensifies until Mariah hits that glass breaking high note.

Finally, we can't forget Nipplegate. Yes, it was this monumental moment in Superbowl history that re-shaped Janet Jackson's career. Three years ago Janet or should I say Justin revealed Janet's nipple to the world. In the mist of all the Nipplegate controversy, Janet decided it would be a great time to release her next studio album entitled Damita Jo. Hmm...not such a good idea Janet, although the album was good, it didn't get the attention it deserved. Notable tracks include, 'Spending Time with You,' 'Island Life,' 'I Want You,' and 'R&B Junkie'. What was so great about this album is that it was pure Janet. She has always been able to infuse a nice mixture of really pop and r&b into her music. This album was not making any political or social statements like Rhythm Nation, or revealing any personal turmoil like The Velvet Rope, but I do believe it captures Janet's sensual, fun, and passionate side quite well. Unfortunately, Nipplegate overshadowed any potential this album may have had.

Well, Kelly don't fret. If My December doesn't perform as you might have expected, then just remember; the women before you have bounced back from poor album sales and so can you.