Lovers Rock (Estelle album)
Lovers Rock is the fifth studio album by British singer Estelle, released on September 7, 2018, through VP Records and Established Music. The album marks a departure from the R&B and pop sounds of her previous work, embracing a predominantly reggae-infused style, specifically the lovers rock subgenre.
Inspired by Estelle's Caribbean heritage and a desire to return to her musical roots, Lovers Rock features collaborations with artists such as Tarrus Riley, Chronixx, and Luke James. The album's themes revolve around love, relationships, and cultural pride, reflecting the core tenets of the lovers rock tradition. The production incorporates traditional reggae instrumentation, along with contemporary electronic elements.
Commercially, Lovers Rock achieved moderate success. Critics generally praised Estelle's vocal performance and the album's authentic sound, although some noted the change in direction from her earlier, more mainstream work. Several singles were released to promote the album, including "Love Triangle" and "Better." The album earned a Grammy Award nomination for Best Reggae Album at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards, marking Estelle's first nomination in that category. The album signifies Estelle's evolution as an artist and her exploration of her cultural identity through music.