Introduction
"Colored Lights: The Broadway Album" is the 8th studio album by American singer-songwriter Debbie Gibson, released in 2003. The album features a variety of pop music from successful Broadway musicals. Known for her 1980s pop hits, Gibson shifts her musical focus to display her skill in a various light, highlighting her passion for Broadway and her natural capability to carry out in the category. The album includes a mix of ballads, upbeat tunes, and powerful performances by Gibson.
Background and Production
Debbie Gibson initially expressed her love for Broadway in a 1992 New York Times interview, in which she stated that she envisioned herself as a "female Frank Sinatra" with a career that covered from tape-recording artist to Broadway and movie actress. Her path was leading her by doing this as she starred in many Broadway and national trip productions, such as "Les Misérables", "Grease", "Beauty and the Beast", and "Gypsy".
This album, however, marks Gibson's very first Broadway-focused recording, produced by Gibson and her longtime partner, Fred Mollin. The recording process occurred in Nashville, Tennessee, where they crafted an effective 11-track collection of program tunes. The album offers a diverse arrangement of musical numbers, showcasing Gibson's singing variety and her capability to bring these beloved tunes to life.
Highlighted Tracks
The album opens with the upbeat and appealing title track, "Colored Lights", from the musical "The Rink". Displaying her ability to strike high notes with ease, Gibson handles "I 'd Rather Leave While I'm in Love" composed by the legendary Carole Bayer Sager. Her rendition of the timeless "Blame It on the Summer Night" from "Rags" shows her passion for storytelling through tune.
In the Eva Perón-inspired, "Don't Cry for Me Argentina" from "Evita", Gibson portrays the emotional weight of the character and tune with her powerful and moving efficiency. Another standout track is "Let Me Entertain You" from "Gypsy", where Gibson includes her own spin on the traditional tune, making it more contemporary and melodic than the initial.
A significant, never-before-recorded song on the album is "Sex", from the musical adaptation of "The Seven Deadly Sins". Co-written by Gibson, the song features a bluesy, jazzy noise that showcases her versatility as an artist. As a nod to her function as Belle in "Beauty and the Beast", Gibson included the charming ballad, "Home".
Critical Reception
"Colored Lights: The Broadway Album" was consulted with positive reviews, typically applauding Gibson's ability to revive these classic program tunes. Critics valued her emotive efficiencies and her varied song selection. Although the album did not accomplish extensive industrial success, it functioned as a testimony to her talent and enthusiasm for the Broadway category.
Conclusion
"Colored Lights: The Broadway Album" is a celebration of Gibson's journey from pop star to Broadway entertainer, capturing her capability to adjust and flourish in different musical designs. Although the album may not be a staple in every Broadway lover's collection, it works as a pleasurable and varied compilation of Debbie Gibson's preferred program tunes, demonstrating her singing prowess and appreciation for the genre.
Artist: Debbie Gibson
Debbie Gibson - her rise to fame, Broadway career, philanthropy, and personal journey. Dive into her captivating biography and quotes.
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