Jordin Sparks’ debut CD a hit

American Idol Jordin Sparks rides in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
If you still haven’t picked up a copy of Jordin Sparks’ debut CD, how can you possibly call yourself a true American Idol fan? If you have picked up the CD, you may have noticed something — it’s hard to stop hitting the repeat button after the first track, Tattoo, ends.
Even though I had heard the first single for the Season 6 Idol winner dozens of times prior to Tuesday’s release, it just seemed to be more and more catchy as I kept playing it on repeat the day I bought the CD. Finally, I have allowed myself to listen to every song on the disc. And I have to say, it’s better than I expected. It’s not as strong as the debuts from Kelly Clarkson or Carrie Underwood, perhaps, but it certainly is better than you may have expected from the youngest winner in the show’s history.
Aside from Tattoo, the best song on Jordin’s self-titled debut certainly is No Air, a duet performed with young R&B superstar Chris Brown. The lyrics are age-appropriate, but the soulful style proves both of these young artists are bursting with talent. Judging by this track alone, Jordin is putting herself in line to have a successful career, much like the pop and R&B superstars who came before her.
The other song that really stands out among the others is Next to You. It’s the solo equivalent of No Air in the way it showcases the vocal ability that helped land Jordin the Idol title. These few tracks far outshine the others — including the song written for the show, This is My Now, which closes out the collection. Overall, the disc comes together well. There’s certainly room for growth as Jordin develops into a seasoned artist, but for a first time out she should be thrilled with the success that’s no doubt coming her way.
Jordin Sparks, the CD, is definitely an extension of what the singer showcased during her run to the top of Season 6. It lays the groundwork for what I expect will be Jordin’s career-long style, a smooth mix of R&B, soul and pop tracks that take advantage of modern techniques, yet still count on the talent of the artist.
Jordin Sparks, American Idol, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson


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