Turn Me Loose is the fourth studio album by American R&B and jazz singer-songwriter Ledisi; it was released on August 18, 2009, by Verve Records. It was recorded after Ledisi's experience with the writer's block, which she able to overcome it, after finding inspiration by listening on the Buddy Miles's album Them Changes. In contrast to her previous work with jazz and soul influences, the album features a prominent funk sound. The album debuted at number 14 on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 27,000 copies in the first week. Upon its release, it received generally positive reviews from music critics, based on an aggregate score of 72/100 from Metacritic. Turn Me Loose was nominated for two 2010 Grammy Awards including Best R&B Album & Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for "Goin' Thru Changes".
Background
Speaking in April 2010 to noted UK R&B writer Pete Lewis - Deputy Editor of the award-winning Blues & Soul - Ledisi explained how the title of the album reflected its musical diversity: "The title 'Turn Me Loose' is basically me saying 'I don't wanna be boxed in! Let me be myself as a performer and singer, because I do EVERYTHING! Not just one particular style!'." Ledisi was able to secure some of urban music's most respected producers, including Grammy winners Raphael Saadiq and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and Big Jim Wright. She also reunited with producer Rex Rideout, who contributed greatly to the sound ofLost & Found. With help from the four other producers, the artist braided brilliant strains of Rock, blues, classic soul, funk and hip-hop are all fused together throughout Turn Me Loose. The funky title track, for instance, updates the sassy grooves of vintage Stax. As a tribute to Buddy Miles, Ledisi does a cover of "Them Changes" as a bonus track.
Singles
"Goin' Thru Changes" was released as the album's first single. The song peaked at No. 43 on Billboards Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs Chart, so far the highest peaking single of Ledisi's career.
"Higher Than This" was released as the album's second single. The song has so far peaked at No. 63 on Billboards Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs Chart.
