Adele Is a Cultural Icon
Adele stands out in today’s stagnant pop economy where many performers sound alike and chase whatever trend may come next with her dignified and traditional-crafted songs, using her mezzo-contralto voice to connect across age, gender and geography.
She has become an unlikely icon, a curvier girl-next-door who made history.
What is Adele?
Adele is a cultural icon and megastar who connects with audiences on an emotional level. Her music bridges the gap between its past and future.
She grew up in London, first in Norwood and then Brixton. At 16-years-old she wrote her first song: ‘Hometown Glory’.
Adele made her television debut in 2007 on British show ‘Later with Jools Holland’ to perform her debut single, ‘Daydreamer’. Adele’s performance became an instantaneous success and gained her immense recognition.
Adele first released her self-titled album, ’19’, to widespread acclaim worldwide and it eventually earned Platinum certification. Since then she has released three more records; with 25 being her most celebrated record so far – taking six years and becoming one of her greatest hits to date. 25 is an album about “knowing now”, reflecting experiences from the previous half-decade with nods towards Amy Winehouse, Erroll Garner and Etta James while boasting catchy yet emotive tunes reminiscent of past classics like 19!
What is her music?
Adele returns with her fourth album, 30. A record which explores female rites of passage – particularly motherhood and love-loss – using an emotive, authentic and powerfully emotive voice.
Adele has proven herself once again a powerhouse in the music industry with the release of her first single from her album “Hello,” as she has built an unmatched team of world-class producers and managers since debuting.
Adele is an adept writer of epic ballads laced with pathos, recalling classic jazz vocalists such as Billie Holiday and Etta James in her style of storytelling and delivery. She has an exceptional range and vocal range; captivating audiences everywhere with each performance of epic ballads that showcase her immense vocal talents. Her songs hold audiences spellbound.
Who is Adele?
Adele stands out in an age when most of her contemporaries sound similar, often following whatever trend may be dominating pop culture airwaves. Adele stands out with her dignified, stately music; an act which draws in those wary of modern pop. This almost acts as a rebellious act and endears Adele to those who fear its disposability.
She possesses an extraordinary talent for turning her personal tragedies and struggles into songs that reach millions, yet remain relatively confidential about them. Furthermore, she maintains an inconspicuous life, sharing only essential details with fans.
Adele is known for focusing her image entirely on music, unlike other mega artists of her caliber who have built their brand through performances, dance moves and endorsements. Her signature look features 60s-Esque polished hair with bold eyeliner and lashes and an overall dark aesthetic; her voice spans three octaves for an incredible range of sound.
What is her career like?
Adele has managed the rare feat of emerging from relative obscurity to global star, earning her the best-selling album of 2015. Adele’s new release 25 reaffirms her status as pop’s oldest soul with music that exudes dignified and stately sounds that transcend demographic boundaries.
How did she accomplish such success? The answer to that question is complex. XL Recordings, her label that signed her after graduating high school, recognized in her the ability to grow as an artist and allowed her freedom in choosing collaborators and taking decisions such as bypassing music festivals (something most labels would have taken exception with).
Adele herself is an unrivaled diva. In one breath, she can unleash thunderous notes that shake buildings; in the next, she may drop an unexpected swear word in her Tottenham accent. Adele often creates drama just for fun – and has done so on an impressive scale.