Beyoncé and Rihanna were a dominating force in R&B and Pop during the first ten years of the 21st century. However, there was another young lady that provided an equivalent amount of kinetic energy near the end of the decade. Her name is Keri Hilson. Let’s talk about her, and her debut album, In a Perfect World.
After many delays, In a Perfect World finally hit the streets on March 24 2009. Hilson had provided a couple of promotional singles such as “Energy” and “Return the Favor” before the release, but neither one created a sustainable buzz. However, “Turnin Me On,” Keri’s third single, did just what the title said to the masses.
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The Hip Hop-infused single, featuring Lil Wayne, reached the number 15 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. It was one spot shy of topping the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, peaking at number 2. The song earned nominations for “Song of the Year” for both, BET Awards and Soul Train Music Awards.
Once the winning formula was figured out, Ms. Hilson applied it to her fourth single, “Knock You Down.” The single, featuring Ne-Yo and Kanye West, peaked at number 3 on Billboard Hot 100. It atop the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs.
“Make Love” and “Slow Jam” were the fifth and sixth singles.
Keri handled most of the album’s writing duties. Whereas, Timbaland and Polow da Don handled much of the album’s production.
In a Perfect World debuted at the number 4 spot on the US Billboard 200. It was certified gold by RIAA. In addition, the album earned Grammy Award nominations for Best New Artist and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration.
I’ve been a fan of music long enough to understand that some artists come and go, while some — not many — are able to find longevity. However, it still baffles me to see someone talented as Keri not find longevity like a Beyoncé or Rihanna.
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Keri Hilson’s ‘In a Perfect World’; Classic!, Jammin’, Regular, or Not Impressed?
[Polls Are Closed!]
Regular – 56%
Classic! – 22%
Not Impressed – 11%
Jammin’ – 11%