The Truth cover

The Truth

Ledisi · 2014

39 min · 10 tracks · contemporary R&B

A vibrant blend of contemporary R&B and jazz that showcases soulful vocals against lush instrumentation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    I Blame You — This opening track sets the tone with its infectious groove and confessional lyrics about love's complexities, immediately showcasing Ledisi's vocal prowess.
  • →
    That Good Good — With its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics, this song epitomizes the album's celebration of love and desire, allowing Ledisi to shine in a more carefree context.
  • →
    The Truth — The title track delves into themes of identity and self-acceptance, anchored by powerful vocal delivery that resonates deeply within the album's narrative.
  • →
    Can’t Help Who You Love — This poignant ballad highlights vulnerability through its heartfelt exploration of love's uncontrollable nature, showcasing Ledisi's emotional range as a vocalist.

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

The album balances vibrant grooves with introspective moments, showcasing strong vocals and rich production.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features upbeat tracks that maintain a consistent groove, while the second half shifts to more introspective themes and slower tempos.
  • Several tracks incorporate jazz elements, such as syncopated rhythms and brass instrumentation, which enrich the overall sound.
  • The vocal arrangements often include layered harmonies, allowing Ledisi's voice to blend seamlessly with the instrumental backdrop.
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

  • upbeat grooves for celebration
  • soulful vocals for emotional connection
  • danceable rhythms for social gatherings
  • catchy melodies for sing-alongs
  • vibrant energy for uplifting moments

Maybe skip if you

  • slow-paced introspective listening
  • minimalist soundscapes and simplicity

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on March 11, 2014, The Truth marks Ledisi's sixth studio album and follows her critically acclaimed record, Pieces of Me (2014). At this point in her career, Ledisi was solidifying her place as a leading voice in contemporary R&B, having gained Grammy nominations and a growing fanbase. This album reflects her continued artistic evolution and personal growth as an artist.
Stylistic neighbors
Jill Scott· Erykah Badu· India.Arie

Tracklist

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

  • 1 I Blame You 4:14
  • 2 Rock With You 3:24
  • 3 That Good Good 3:17
  • 4 Lose Control 4:39
  • 5 Like This 3:48
  • 6 Anything 4:36
  • 7 The Truth 4:27
  • 8 Missy Doubt 3:57
  • 9 88 Boxes 4:19
  • 10 Can’t Help Who You Love 3:18

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata