The ex-Idol finalist has been discredited on previous releases for sticking with adult contemporary rather than venturing into urban pop. However, to her credit, the brand of contemporary gospel on her 2007 debut, True Beauty, works best for her powerhouse voice. Rather than attempting an ill-fated imitation of Beyoncé or Alicia Keys, Mandisa again finds the sweet spot for her own voice on Freedom. As a result, this album is a slam dunk. Mandisa feels quite "free" and comfortable in her own skin. This safety may be a liability for other artists, yet it seems to bring out the best in her. She wears her convictions on her sleeve on tracks like "My Deliverer," and the poignant "Not Guilty." Other highlights include "Victorious," "Freedom Song," and the melodic "You Wouldn't Cry," all of which encapsulate her magical touch with gospel. If you're expecting her to be someone she isn't, you might be surprised at how well she pulls off this album by simply being herself. ~ Jared Johnson, All Music Guide
-
Hot 100
Gotye tops again
-
Billboard 200
Adam Lambert rules
-
Dance/Club Songs
Karmin's 'Brokenhearted' rises
-
Digital Songs
Carly Rae Jepsen scores
-
Soundtracks
The 'Glee' cast rocks it
-
Social 50
Rihanna is social queen
-
Dance/Electronic Albums
Skrillex nabs No. 1
-
Country Albums
Carrie Underwood blows us away
-
Rock Albums
Tenacious D 'Rizes' to the top
-
Rap Albums
Nicki Minaj takes the top spot
Freedom - Mandisa
More Features
All features
All of Billboard.com's Great Lists
Billboard chart app
Billboard archives
© Billboard. All rights reserved.
Portions of content provided by Rovi Corporation. © Rovi Corporation.
Thanks For Joining Billboard
Log in to create your profile, speak your mind and connect with listeners like you.
Haven't Joined Yet ?
For the full Billboard experience, you need to be a member. Sign up. It's free.
Forgot your password?
Enter the e-mail address you used to sign up and we will email you the password .
Email Sent !
Your password has been sent to the email address you provided. Please sign in below :
Log In
Action Successful
We'd love to hear your feedback on the new Billboard.com!
Whether it's a feature request or a bug
We want to hear from you. Please use this form to anonymously give us your input.
Up for Discussion