The Bottom Line
On her 3rd US single and 4th in the UK, Leona Lewis exhibits a welcome change of pace with a more uptempo R&B effort. As makes most sense, Lewis' stellar pipes are front and center. Akon provides much of the hitmaking punch as producer and co-songwriter.
Pros
- Uptempo change of pace
- Leona Lewis' stellar, soulful vocals
- Bouncy shuffle beat
Cons
- Slightly dated sound
- Lacking in sincere sounding emotion
Description
- Written by Akon, Claude Kelly, and Giorgio Tuinfort
- Produced by Akon
- Released November 2008 by J Records
Guide Review - Leona Lewis - "Forgive Me"
Leona Lewis has firmly established herself as a powerful ballad singer who could go toe to toe with the likes of Mariah Carey. However, her latest single "Forgive Me" provides a refreshing change of pace animated by an uptempo R&B shuffle beat. Versatility is the point of the record, and it effectively prevents Lewis from being wedged into a musical rut.
Lyrically, the song appears as a tale of regret for cheating on another. However, Lewis' vocals skate over the words without any particular expression of emotion. This interpretive lack and a somewhat dated sounding production from Akon are the only drawbacks on an otherwise likely pop radio hit.
Leona Lewis is a complete package as a pop star. The stunning beauty and depth in her voice combines with the projection of personality and looks of an effortless superstar. Enjoy "Forgive Me" as another step into one of today's most promising pop music careers.
