Sharp cover

Sharp

Angela Winbush · 1987

46 min · 9 tracks · soul

A lush blend of soulful melodies and introspective lyrics wrapped in smooth R&B grooves.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Sharp — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its infectious groove and showcases Winbush's commanding vocal prowess, setting the tone for her solo career.
  • →
    Sensual Lover — This track became one of Winbush's signature songs, blending seductive lyrics with smooth production that resonated widely on urban radio, highlighting her ability to craft hits.
  • →
    Run to Me — Featuring heartfelt lyrics and a rich arrangement, this song exemplifies Winbush’s skill at conveying deep emotion through her music, further establishing her as a soulful balladeer.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

Sharp showcases strong songwriting and production, balancing energetic tracks with smooth ballads.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a slow, smooth groove that sets a romantic tone, followed by the upbeat single 'Sensual Lover' which shifts the energy.
  • Each song features layered vocal harmonies, often with Winbush's lead vocals accompanied by backing vocals that create a rich texture.
  • Several tracks incorporate instrumental bridges that allow for extended musical interludes, enhancing the overall lushness of the sound.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • intimate moments with loved ones
  • steady groove for relaxing evenings
  • melodic warmth during quiet nights
  • emotional reflections in solitude

Maybe skip if you

  • seek instant high-energy tracks
  • prefer fast-paced listening experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1987, Sharp was Angela Winbush's debut solo album following her tenure as part of the duo Rene & Angela. This album marked a significant transition for Winbush, showcasing her evolution from group member to a solo artist and establishing her own identity in the R&B genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Lalah Hathaway· Chaka Khan· Sade

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Sharp 4:20
  • 2 Sensual Lover 4:49
  • 3 Run to Me 5:12
  • 4 Imagination of the Heart 4:41
  • 5 C'est Toi (It's You) 4:24
  • 6 Angel 5:19
  • 7 Hello Beloved 5:47
  • 8 You Had a Good Girl 5:42
  • 9 No One Has Ever Cared (Like You) 6:30

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata