India.Arie - Testimony: Vol. 1, Life & Relationship

Log onto an India.Arie lyrics page and you won't come away expecting an easy-breezy listen--here's an artist, remember, who made a name for herself by declaring her disdain for silicone and Cristal on her 2001 debut. What's consistently a revelation for new recruits to the Arie camp, then, is how good the music makes you feel. No matter how heavy the subject matter (and it still gets heavy--God surfaces in the first verse of "Intro," the prayerful opening song), she delivers it in such a way that it ends up feeling like homespun wisdom--accessible, cloudless, and heartening. Testimony, no minor R&B/soul achievement, is full of such earth-mother moments: "The Heart of the Matter," a cover of the Don Henley song, is what a hug might sound like if it were music; "There's Hope" reminds tunefully that you don't have to pay to smile ("You better thank God for that"); "Private Party" points up the benefits of getting naked before a mirror and liking what you see (impossible as that sounds, it'll seem less so after listening); and "I Am Not My Hair," a sexy thumper featuring Akon, celebrates not the hair, not the skin, but "the soul that lives within." Musically, "Testament" is a testament to the benefits of branching out; in addition to gospel and hip-hop, you'll also find country and pure pop forays here. All of it works, and works wondrously. Arie may be the Oprah of the music world: she's spiritual, she's got her head screwed on straight, and whatever she touches turns to gold. Or at least it ought to. --Tammy La Gorce Amazon.com

Inspirational!

This is a highly personal CD that obviously took some time to write. The songs come from her heart and express the highs and lows of her personal growth. It is truly an inspirational CD to listen to! June 23, 2008

happy music

This is a truely beautiful album with music for everyone and messages that make you feel good.... what could be better June 23, 2008

India Arie CD

Excellent service - my CD was a rush order and it came right on time! June 9, 2008

She's just so great...

This is my 3rd India.Arie cd and she never ceases to amaze me. The first time I listen to her cd, I read along and sip something yummy. She deserves my full attention and with that, makes me feel I deserve the same. Treat yourself. May 10, 2008

"I am not my hair"

I can't stand this song! Not only do I have a soul in me, but I AM my hair, I AM my skin. God made me this way and this IS who I AM. I AM NOT ashamed of that and I am disappointed that India Irie sang a song like this! We should be proud of who we are inside and out! Yes some if us can improve ourselves, but I think this song sends the WRONG message!! March 22, 2008

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