Doesn't Mean Anything

 

It took me a very long time to digest “If I Ain’t Got You” from Alicia Keys before it becomes one of my all time favourites and a must played song every time I turned on my media player. Alicia Keys has always been able to impress me with her first, second and sometimes third single, but never the entire album.

When I noticed her chart climbing single “Doesn’t Mean Anything” lately on the UK Top 40 Chart, I knew this is going to be another great voyage with Miss Keys. Contradicting to the ballad-R&B style “If I Ain’t Got You”, “Doesn’t Mean Anything” seems more appropriate to be categorised in the Pop-R&B genre.

Yes, it seems like Alicia is ready to broaden her fans base by channelling herself to a more mainstream music orientation. Coincidently, another great artist, Norah Jones, has also stunned many of her loyal fans recently with her pop-oriented jazz album. The good news is, both albums seem to be a tasteful and refreshing delight than a disastrous music make-over.

The lead single from Alicia is indeed very hearing-friendly. The piano coupled with catchy bases as introduction does sound very intriguing. Very simple construction on the lyrics. At the first glance, the story sounds very similar to “If I Ain’t Got You”. But after careful scrutiny, “Doesn’t Mean Anything” reveals the vulnerability and fragility of a woman’s heart, whereas “If I Ain’t Got You” shows more strength and power.

If you are looking for the female domination factor as I did with Alicia’s latest album, you will not be disappointed. “Put It in A Love Song” featuring Beyoncé is the answer for you.

In conclusion, as in my experience with other Alicia’s albums, I am still struggling to love the entire album although a couple of singles manage to dazzle with surprises. I doubt “Doesn’t Mean Anything” will evolve into my all time favourite as with “If I Ain’t Got You” or maybe even “No One”, but at least it is hot in my playlist currently.