Turn Me Loose (Ledisi album)
Turn Me Loose is the fourth studio album by American singer Ledisi. It was released by Verve Records on August 18, 2009 in the United States. It was recorded after Ledisi's experience with the writer's block, which she able to overcome it, after finding inspiration by listening on the Buddy Miles's album Them Changes (1970).[1] In contrast to her previous work with jazz and soul influences, the album features a prominent funk sound.
Turn Me Loose
August 18, 2009
53:53
- Carvin & Ivan
- The Fyre Dept.
- Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis
- Ledisi
- Rex Rideout
- Raphael Saadiq
- Johnnie Smith
- Chucky Thompson
- James Wright
- Chief Xcel
The album debuted at number 14 on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 27,000 copies in the first week.[2] Upon its release, it received generally positive reviews from music critics, based on an aggregate score of 72/100 from Metacritic.[3] Turn Me Loose received two nominations at the 52nd Grammy Awards including Best R&B Album.
Background[edit]
Speaking in April 2010 to Blues & Soul, Ledisi explained how the title of the album reflected its musical diversity: "The title 'Turn Me Loose' is basically me saying 'I don't wanna be boxed in! Let me be myself as a performer and singer, because I do EVERYTHING! Not just one particular style!'."[4] The singer was able to secure some of urban music's most respected producers, including Raphael Saadiq, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and James "Big Jim" Wright. She also reunited with producer Rex Rideout, who contributed greatly to the sound of her previous album Lost & Found. With help from the four other producers, including Carvin & Ivan, Chief Xcel, Chucky Thompson, and Fyre Dept., the artist braided brilliant strains of rock, blues, classic soul, funk and hip-hop are all fused together throughout Turn Me Loose. The funky title track, for instance, updates the sassy grooves of vintage Stax. As a tribute to Buddy Miles, Ledisi does a cover of "Them Changes" as a bonus track.[4]