Janelle Monáe - The Electric Lady

2 x Vinyl LP, Black And White

Year Released: 2013

Genre: Progressive Soul, Funk, R&B, Psychedelic Soul

Description:

The Electric Lady is the second studio album by American singer-songwriter Janelle Monáe, released on September 6, 2013. The album is a pivotal work in Monáe's discography, serving as the fourth and fifth "suites" in her ongoing "Metropolis" concept series, which began with her 2007 EP and continued on her critically acclaimed debut album, The ArchAndroid. This album continues the futuristic, dystopian, and Afrofuturist narrative of her android alter ego, Cindi Mayweather, but with a more accessible and personal musical approach.

Musically, The Electric Lady is a vibrant and expansive work that seamlessly blends a diverse range of genres. While still rooted in the funk and soul of its predecessors, the album incorporates elements of contemporary R&B, pop, gospel, jazz, and rock. The sound is a lush, warm, and highly-produced landscape that is a tribute to the classic sounds of artists like Prince and Stevie Wonder. The album is filled with a number of star-studded collaborations, which add a new layer of richness to the sound.

Key tracks on the album include the funky and socially conscious anthem "Q.U.E.E.N.," featuring vocals from neo-soul icon Erykah Badu. The album's title track, "Electric Lady," is a powerful ode to female empowerment featuring Solange. The album also includes a significant collaboration with the legendary Prince on "Givin' Em What They Love," a track that showcases a raw and explosive side of Monáe. The album was a commercial and critical success, debuting in the top five of the Billboard 200 and earning universal acclaim for its ambition, creativity, and masterful execution. The Electric Lady solidified Monáe's reputation as a unique and visionary artist, capable of creating music that is both intellectually profound and undeniably groovy