Album: I Paralyze

Introduction
"I Paralyze" is the 17th studio album by American vocalist and starlet Cher, launched on May 28, 1982, by Columbia Records. The album became her very first and only release under the label, as she would later on sign with Geffen Records in 1984. Marking a departure from her previous disco and rock-infused albums, "I Paralyze" sees Cher exploring a more contemporary pop noise while still incorporating aspects of rock and dance. Regardless of getting blended evaluations from critics, the album has actually been acknowledged for its impact on Cher's later musical style and continued to acquire a cult following throughout the years.

Production and Background
"I Paralyze" was produced by John Farrar, who was known for his work with Olivia Newton-John, and David Wolfert. The vocalist was coupled with these two popular producers after her previous albums' frustrating sales under Casablanca Records. Especially, it was throughout this period that Cher was also making her mark as an actress, starring in the Broadway play "Come Back to the Five and Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean". As an outcome, Cher's music, and particularly the "I Paralyze" album, appeared to be a secondary focus for the star.

The album included a mix of initial songs and cover tracks. Some significant covers consist of "Rudy", initially by Rita Coolidge, "Games", initially by Phoebe Snow, and "When the Love is Gone", initially by Leo Sayer. The change in musical direction was an effort to upgrade and modernize Cher's sound, along with to distance her from her previous disco-heavy image.

Commercial Reception
"I Paralyze" failed to achieve substantial business success upon its release. The album did not enter the Billboard 200 chart, and its songs also stopped working to make an effect on the charts. The lead single, "Rudy", did not fare well on the Billboard Hot 100. The second single, "I Paralyze", did not even receive an official release, though it would later on become a fan-favorite.

The absence of business success for "I Paralyze" prompted Columbia Records to launch Cher from her recording agreement, ending her period with the label. The failure of the album may be partly credited to its lack of promo, as Cher was concentrating on her acting career at the time.

Crucial Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "I Paralyze" got mixed evaluations from music critics. Some praised Cher's singing efficiencies and the catchy tunes, while others criticized the album's lack of cohesion and dated production.

In spite of its preliminary dull reception, "I Paralyze" has gotten a cult following for many years and is considered a vital part of Cher's discography. The album marks the start of Cher's transition into a more contemporary pop and rock sound, which would become a specifying function of her future hit albums, such as "Heart of Stone" and "Love Hurts".

In conclusion, Cher's "I Paralyze" may not have actually accomplished the industrial success it had aimed for, however it remains a crucial stepping stone in her renowned profession. Its influence on her later musical direction can still be heard today, and it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of her dedicated fans.