When you think about the music of the early '90s, an eclectic mix of genres and artists come to mind, and among them stands Belinda Carlisle with her album "Real." Released in 1993, this album marked a bold evolution in Carlisle's career. It was her fourth studio album, produced by Ralph Schuckett, and it came out under the Virginia Records label. "Real" was a significant breakaway from Carlisle's previous pop-heavy oeuvre. It was like she peeled back a layer to reveal a more mature, raw edge to her music—significant for an artist known for gloss and glamour.
The album's title, "Real," suggests a journey towards authenticity. Like many artists, Carlisle was entering a period of embracing change, which was reflected in her life and political views. As of the early '90s, she was more vocal on issues close to her heart such as animal rights and environmental activism. The tracks in "Real" echoed this personal evolution, less concerned with commercialism and more in tune with authenticity and personal expression.
Musically, "Real" has an interesting blend of rock, which broke from her established pop mold. Tracks like “Big Scary Animal” and “Lay Down Your Arms” reveal a depth and intensity that challenging societal norms might inspire. They carry a stronger vibe that parallel the issues Carlisle voiced fervently, like environmentalism and personal freedom, making her song choices seem tied to a bigger narrative beyond just music.
Gen Z, often hailed as the socially conscious generation, may find "Real" surprisingly relatable. Carlisle's willingness to step away from a purely commercial sound to embrace a rawer style brings to light themes of authenticity—a powerful theme today. It’s amazing how music can leap across time, connecting seemingly disparate decades through shared human experiences.
However, the album didn't achieve commercial success like Carlisle's earlier works—possibly since it diverged from what was familiar to her audience. Noting different reactions, some critics praised its honesty and edgier sound, while others were disappointed, yearning for the catchy pop tunes that had earlier dominated the airwaves. This dynamic parallels how entertainment evolves over time; some embrace change, whereas others cling tightly to the nostalgic comfort of what they know.
The track "Here Comes My Baby," for instance, with its honest and genuine feel, speaks directly to listeners, conveying a sense of personal intimacy. This can be jarring for those expecting polished pop but refreshing if one seeks genuine storytelling. The shifting tone in songs like these shows Carlisle engaging with more sophisticated, worldly challenges—an extra dimension that Gen Z might find empowering.
Of course, the political and social context during the early '90s was another layer. Artists were beginning to use their platforms more extensively to spotlight societal issues, resembling today’s world where artists and influencers often serve as advocates for change. In many ways, this album feels ahead of its time, a commentary wrapped in catchy melodies.
In these times, where advocating for justice and equality has become a prominent part of the zeitgeist, "Real" provides an interesting case study of an artist at the intersection of shifting personal and public narratives. It is fascinating to revisit it now, as it feels as much an exploration of self as it is of sound.
Shifting genres and experimenting with sound while still writing lyrics that speak about personal truths can sometimes leave an artist vulnerable. While some critics may not have loved this departure from the pop mainstream, others appreciated the rawness and honesty Carlisle brought to the table. It's a reminder that art is often subjective, resonating differently with each listener.
This album is a testament to the fact that sometimes the greatest artistry emerges when the creator steps away from popular expectation to express something genuine and real. Revisiting "Real" prompts us to appreciate Belinda Carlisle's courage in exploring new stylistic territories and addressing social topics through her music. It's beneficial to understand these shifts—not just for nostalgia, but for learning how artistic risks can intersect beautifully with life's very real challenges.