Music, much like a carefully crafted recipe, reflects the essence of its creator, and Lisa Marie Presley’s album Now What is no exception. Released on April 5, 2005, this album marked Presley's second studio effort and unveiled a more intimate side of her artistry. Creating music under Capitol Records, Presley managed to pour her life’s tumultuous narrative into 12 compelling tracks that effortlessly connect with listeners, all while riding the waves of her father Elvis Presley's formidable legacy.
Presley, who has always had the monumental task of stepping out from the shadow of her iconic father, used Now What as a brave declaration of her individuality. This album's significance lies not just in its raw sound but in the boldness of its message. Recorded in various studios, including Sphere Recording Studios in Burbank, California, it offered her an opportunity to step back into the limelight, not just as Elvis's daughter but as an artist in her own right.
Lisa Marie’s approach in this album veers from mainstream pop and delves into a grittier, more rock-infused sound. The contrast is compelling, marrying the elements of classic rock with a contemporary twist that caters both to nostalgic fans and a new generation itching for genuine storytelling.
From the very first track, listeners are drawn into Presley's world of emotional highs and lows. One significant single, "Dirty Laundry," is a powerful commentary on intrusive media and public scrutiny. Covered from Don Henley's original, Presley doesn't just replicate the tune but adds her distinct, raspy vocals that enhance its grit. Through this song, Lisa voices a backlash against sensationalist media, echoing the frustrations of many individuals who feel exploited for profit and entertainment.
Her songwriting in Now What, often overshadowed by media hype or celebrity lineage, sheds light on her struggles, resilience, and sometimes, pure anger. Take for example "Idiot", expressing disdain for superficiality and betrayal, or "I'll Figure It Out", an anthem of self-empowerment. These tracks become more profound with an understanding of Presley’s personal battles, including her high-profile marriages and the pressure of being in the public eye.
However, despite the deeply personal themes, it’s vital to understand that songs like "Raven" illustrate a soft vulnerability. Here, she strips back the layers, offering solace and whispers of understanding to youth dealing with similar trials of expectation and identity crises. Presley's emotional delivery makes her music relatable to anyone who's faced inner turmoil, adding an extra dimension of relatability for Gen Z listeners especially.
Critics' reception of Now What was a mixed bag. While some praised her authentic voice and storytelling, others were quick to compare her sound to that of her father’s era, dismissing her work as lacking in originality. The liberal perspective would lean towards celebrating her courage for bucking the trend and using her platform to voice genuine personal and social concerns through her music, unlike many artists tethered by commercial expectations.
On the other side of the coin, some voices in the conservative realm might argue that Presley's departure from a safer, pop-oriented path wasn't the wisest choice for commercial success. However, from a creative standpoint, prioritizing artistic integrity over commercial gains is a revolution many young musicians, including Gen Z artists, can appreciate.
Beyond the music, Lisa Marie’s venture reflects a broader conversation about celebrity pressures and personal health narratives. Her refusal to fit into predefined boxes embodies a quest similar to that of many young people today who are fighting for individuality in a world of comparison and conformity.
Now What stands as an ode to self-definition, confronting past, present, and future in equal measure. For Gen Z, in particular, Presley’s work presents an opportunity to explore music that respects authenticity over perfection and narrative over glitter. Music, after all, is more than just sound; it's a voice, and few have used theirs as boldly as Lisa Marie Presley in this remarkable album.