Unexpected (Michelle Williams album)
Unexpected is the third studio album by American gospel singer Michelle Williams, released on October 7, 2008, by Columbia Records and Music World Entertainment. The album marked a significant departure from Williams' previous gospel-oriented releases, venturing into a more contemporary R&B and pop sound. This shift was controversial amongst some of her core gospel fanbase, while simultaneously broadening her appeal to a wider audience.
Background and Development:
Following the success of her previous gospel albums, Heart to Yours (2002) and Do You Know (2004), Williams expressed a desire to explore different musical styles. Unexpected was conceived as a project that would allow her to showcase her versatility as an artist and experiment with R&B, pop, and dance genres. The album was executive produced by Mathew Knowles.
Music and Lyrics:
Unexpected incorporates elements of electronic music, dance-pop, and R&B. The lyrical themes explore love, relationships, self-empowerment, and faith, albeit with a more secular approach compared to her previous work. The album features collaborations with producers and songwriters such as Stargate, Rico Love, Wayne Wilkins, and Andrew Frampton.
Singles:
The album spawned several singles, including "We Break the Dawn," a dance-oriented track that became a moderate hit on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. "The Greatest" was another single released from the album. While not commercially successful on mainstream charts, these singles helped introduce Williams to a new audience.
Critical Reception:
Unexpected received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised Williams for her vocal performance and willingness to experiment with new sounds, while others criticized the album's perceived lack of originality and departure from her gospel roots. The album's shift in musical direction was a major point of discussion in many reviews.
Commercial Performance:
Unexpected debuted at number 42 on the Billboard 200 chart. Despite generating considerable buzz and promotion, the album's sales were modest compared to Williams' previous releases.
Track Listing:
The track listing typically includes songs such as:
- We Break the Dawn
- Fix Me
- Unexpected
- Hello Heartbreak
- Till the End of the World
- Private Room
- Hungover
- The Greatest
- Stop This Car
Legacy:
Despite its mixed reception and commercial performance, Unexpected remains a notable album in Michelle Williams' discography. It represents a pivotal moment in her career, demonstrating her artistic ambition and willingness to take risks. The album also sparked a conversation about the boundaries of genre and the expectations placed on artists who transition between different musical styles.