We featured Ryan Leslie on these pages only a few months ago, for his self-titled solo debut album. Not one to sit on his heels, Leslie’s back already with his follow-up. Transition is part coming-of-age story, part plan-for-world-domination. With two quality albums under his belt for this year, Leslie should be a a shoo-in when the 2009 Best New Artist nominations begin to roll out.
Check out the crazy video for his new single You’re Not My Girl.
REVIEW OF REVIEWS
Wednesday night ya gurl got the chance to attend Ryan Leslie’s exclusive album listening session for Transition at Chuck King Studios in NYC. The intimate small session revealed a more in depth look into the Harvard educated singer/songwriter/producer. Leslie took us on a storytelling and video montage journey of his courtship of a new mystery lady in his life. After going through a tough hurtful break-up (think Cassie), Leslie couldn’t help but feel a bit bitter, but after meeting a woman one night at SOB’s in NYC… his transition began. It was the bad break-up and meeting this woman that inspired the first record on the album “Never Gonna Break-Up”.
It’s no secret that Ryan Leslie’s a great catch. A Harvard graduate, singer, songwriter, composer, and sometimes rapper, he’s quite mature, poised, articulate, and not to mention, a sharp dresser. So why does he spend his entire sophomore album trying to “make it official” with a certain someone who just won’t budge?
Transition, due November 3, follows the antics, ideas, and development of Leslie finding inspiration in the women that he meets and courts. He shared the meaning behind his album with a select group of journalists at Chung King Studios in New York City. In a studio seating less than 30, R-Les gave an in-depth look at the makings of the 11-song effort. The presentation also included videos, which showcased the R&B talent’s production behind-the-scenes, as well as him rapping as a 14-year-old.
TRACKLIST
1. Never Gonna Break Up
2. Something That I Like
3. Zodiac
4. Is It Real Love
5. Sunday Night
6. You’re Not My Girl
7. To The Top
8. Nothin’
9. Guardian Angel
10. All My Love
11. I Choose You
VIDEOS
Ryan Leslie – “Transition” is here! from Ryan Leslie on Vimeo.
STIL Rivington Hotel from Ryan Leslie on Vimeo.
