Album: She

Introduction
" She" is Harry Connick, Jr.'s eleventh studio album released in 1994 by Columbia Records. Despite being an artist understood primarily for his jazz and big band sound, this album sees Connick checking out an entirely different musical category - funk.

Inspired by the music of his native New Orleans, "She" is a departure from Connick's previous works, largely without the lush orchestral noises and jazz arrangements that he is best understood for. Rather, this album is controlled by rhythm-heavy, funk-infused tracks, reflecting the abundant, dynamic impacts of Caribbean, African, and Latin American rhythms. With a mix of original tunes and a few covers, "She" showcases Connick's versatility as both a singer and songwriter.

Influences
" She" is greatly affected by the city of New Orleans and its rich musical custom. The album admires the city's vibrant history and wide range of styles, including funk, soul, zydeco, and blues. The record also highlights local musical talents, with much of the artists and partners coming from the New Orleans location.

Connick's choice to look into the funk category was a bold relocation for an artist mainly known for his jazz and big band sound. The album was influenced by the various musical influences he matured listening to and taking in from his home town. It is a reflection of the varied and dynamic sounds that can be heard throughout the city, showcasing Connick's unique musical viewpoint, as well as his development as an artist.

Track Highlights
" She" includes twelve tracks, each showcasing a different element of the artist's musicality. Some of the standout tracks from the album consist of:

1. "She", the title track, is a slow-burning, sultry funk ballad that features Connick on the Fender Rhodes electric piano along with showing his emotional vocals.

2. "Funky Dunky" is a funk-filled, positive tune brimming with energy and enjoyment. The horn plans, catchy hook, and strong percussive aspects captivate the listener and make it among the most unforgettable tracks on the album.

3. "(I Could Only) Whisper Your Name" is a smooth, emotional love song that highlights Connick's prowess on the piano and his ability to stimulate feeling through his vocals. This track ended up being a hit single, reaching No. 67 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

4. "Here Comes the Big Parade" is a perky, New Orleans-style jazz number that offers a nod to the city's well-known Mardi Gras parades, featuring a vibrant brass area and showcasing Connick's talents as an arranger and conductor.

Reception
Upon its release, "She" received blended evaluations from critics who were divided in their viewpoints on Connick's endeavor into funk. Some praised his bravery in accepting a brand-new category and appreciated the album's speculative nature, while others felt that it lacked the improvement and elegance typically related to his earlier works.

Nevertheless, "She" demonstrated Connick's adaptability as a musician and his determination to check out brand-new musical areas. The album reached No. 16 on the Billboard 200 chart and was accredited Platinum, showing a commercial success for the artist. In general, "She" stands as a testimony to Harry Connick, Jr.'s adaptability and unyielding passion for music.