Draft:Samantha Cole (album)

Music and lyrics
album genres: pop soul, pop/R&B

Down in Love

r&b/pop song

"funky hip-hop edge"

hip-hop/pop

quite outstanding

Happy with You

"slinky r&b" song

hip/hop pop

quite outstanding

Without You

ballad

Surrender to Me

ballad, saccharine duet

I'm By Your Side

ballad

You Light Up My Life

adequate remake'

What You Do to Me

"midtempo groove"

Shadow of Love

ballad

Release and promotion
Universal released Samantha Cole in the United States on September 9, 1997. The album was preceded by the release of lead single "Happy With You" in July 1997, which the label believed was suited for summer due to its "upbeat" nature. Issued as a cassette and CD single, the track was promoted to American contemporary hit, rhythmic contemporary, and adult contemporary radio stations. It peaked at number 78 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 55 on the Canadian RPM 100. After contemplating "Surrender to Me" and "I'm By Your Side" as follow-ups, Universal issued "Without You" as the second single in November 1997. It reached number 25 on the American adult contemporary radio airplay chart published by Radio & Records.

MCA Victor promoted Samantha Cole in Japan. The label released "Sweet Sweet Surrender" as the lead single simultaneously with the album on December 17, 1997. "Without You" followed as the second single on February 21, 1998, and experienced success across Asia. Cole embarked on a promotional tour to Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and the Philippines where she attended interviews, performed live, and attended fan meet and greets.

mariah...

Critical reception
"lacks originality"

"sounds sounds like the result of a marketing meeting rather than true artistic inspiration

production, compositions, vocals "very much in the Mariah Carey mould"

"it's almost as if Cole is just going through the motions"

"not once does Cole sound even the least bit spontaneous"

strong first album, "the tunes are pretty listenable"

Aftermath
second album details, luv me

Track listing

 * https://www.ruten.com.tw/item/show?21746341549275

Personnel
Musicians

Production

Technical