What makes I Can Be by Taio Cruz notable?

I Can Be achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number 31 on the UK Albums Chart and solidifying Cruz's presence in the pop and R&B genres. The album's lead single and its remixes contributed to his rising fame, influencing the sound of late 2000s dance-pop. Released as Taio Cruz's debut studio album, I Can Be marked a pivotal moment in his career, shifting him from songwriter to a front-facing artist. At this time, he was gaining traction in the UK music scene, establishing his identity as a solo act after writing hits for other artists.

How many songs are on I Can Be?

I Can Be has 4 tracks, running approximately 4 minutes.

I Can Be

Taio Cruz · 2008

4 min · 4 tracks · contemporary R&B

Upbeat dance-pop grooves blend with sleek R&B melodies, creating an infectious celebration of confidence and self-empowerment.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Can Be — This title track sets the tone for the album with its empowering message and catchy hook, showcasing Cruz's smooth vocal delivery and pop sensibilities.
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Disco Fever — With its infectious beat and vibrant energy, 'Disco Fever' captures the essence of early dance-pop trends while also highlighting Cruz's ability to craft party anthems.
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Moving On (Rokstarr remix) — 'Moving On' represents Cruz's versatility; this remix adds a fresh layer to the original track while maintaining its upbeat spirit, appealing to club audiences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

34 /100

Lowland

Higher than 0% of albums we've rated

The single showcases catchy hooks but lacks depth and cohesion across its tracks.

What we noticed

The title track features a repetitive hook that serves as the central theme, with verses that build around it.
The second track introduces a faster tempo and a more upbeat feel, contrasting with the slower groove of the first.
The remixes at the end focus on enhancing the club experience, emphasizing bass and rhythm over melody.

Composition 25% of the score: 5/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 4/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 4/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Marked Taio Cruz's transition from songwriter to recognized artist.
Career context: Released as Taio Cruz's debut studio album, I Can Be marked a pivotal moment in his career, shifting him from songwriter to a front-facing artist. At this time, he was gaining traction in the UK music scene, establishing his identity as a solo act after writing hits for other artists.
Stylistic neighbors: Jason Derulo· Usher· Ne-Yo