Natalie Renee McIntyre known prominently to the music world as Macy Gray has built a strong following for her musical craft that spreads happiness. Since 1999 which was the year she dropped her platinum selling album “On How Life Is”, Macy continued to be consistent releasing album every other year. As you know her discography includes “The ID” (’01), “Trouble with Being Myself (’03) and 2007’s “Big”.  While all of Macy’s projects varied sales wise it still shows she has a core following with fans that are still loyal to this day. Back again with her fifth studio release “The Sellout” which contains the lead single “Beauty in the World”, Macy proves that making quality music is always stop priority.

Getting further into the hit record “Beauty in the World” Macy provides a feel good record that emphasizes the message to enjoy life.  It’s a reason why this was one of the first singles from the project. People need something to relate too to make them feel good and with the hardships people face often, Macy can put an easy smile on your face when listening to this song.  Continuing with a further listen of the album one song that gains interest is the self-titled album cut “The Sellout”. From what it seems “The Sellout” conjures is a personal relationship that Macy wants to reconcile. Singing in a beautiful tone Macy goes “Hey babe and honey boo, I always pictured you, by my side forever, and I can’t believe your gone now”.  The record is phenomenal and I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s heard on your local radio station as her next single.

As the album proceeds a more up-tempo feel comes into play with “Lately”. Once opening your ears to a record like this, it can be recommended for one that needs confidence.  Macy has a braggadocio swagger on this one that she’s the star and the once in charge, yet making you know at the same time. The production on the record is great too, blending in with the hook to perfection.  “Still Hurts” is good too, as Macy provides a detailed story on a relationship that simply won’t work. Of course there are times when you love someone but it just won’t work. Even when you still have that spot in your heart for that person you just be together.  As the album continues for the most part you come to find that the majority of the material is classy. Listening to records such as “Let You Win” and “Stalker” it’s not hard to find why.

“The Sellouts” highlight track features R&B Legend Bobby Brown on “Real Love”. The two harmonize very soundly on the record as if they were a duo for years. Chemistry is always the key element when any two artists work together.  Bobby speaks on the intro telling Macy on doing a song with lyrics that mean something and the two did just that. The lyrics can be a possible anthem for a newly-wed couple showing their emotions why they love each other.  Nice laid back tone in the backround of the vocals and soothing back which makes the track very relaxing.

Closing things up, Macy Gray once again comes through with a very collectible album. Feel good music for the common Joe that needs happiness. It’s hard to explain why the album is called “The Sellout” but maybe in Macy’s mind she sold herself out to make music she truly believes in.