Joss Stone - LP1

Joss Stone has already experienced a lifetime’s worth of fame. The British diva’s star has risen quickly ever since winning a BBC talent contest at the age of 13. Blessed with a soulful voice that led to her being called “the white Aretha Franklin,” Joss became a global sensation with the 2003 release of her debut album, The Soul Sessions. Hit singles, multimillion album sales, Brit Awards and a Grammy followed. Soon she was sharing stages with legends like Smokey Robinson and Sir Tom Jones and starring in TV’s The Tudors.

Now 24, Stone—who counts U.S. President Barack Obama as a fan and Prince William as a friend (she was a guest at the Royal Wedding)—is embarking on a new chapter in her storied career. This fall, she joins Sir Mick Jagger in a rock supergroup called Super Heavy. Meanwhile, the free-spirited artist has just released a new album on her recently formed label, Stone’d Records. “You eventually get to this point where you’re like, let me give this a bash myself,” says Stone, “and that’s where I am right now.”

Produced by Eurythmics co-founder Dave Stewart, LP1 was recorded quickly over a week in Nashville. With stripped-down instrumentation, it showcases Stone’s raw, unbridled vocals on 10 original songs. The inspired opening track “Newborn” sets the album’s tone. There are songs of pain, anger and new love, including the energized r&b of “Somehow.” Already a veteran, Joss Stone made a brave new start with her bold, soul-baring LP1.