If you have any shred of awareness, it shouldn't be new news that Robin Thicke has released an album titled "Paula" after his heavily publicized separation from wife Paula Patton. Despite the couple being together since they were 14 years old, have a son, and what had been known as an open relationship; this separation seemed to be shocking to many.
Despite what fans, the media, and well what you believe to be the truth, remember you aren't Robin nor Paula. The details of their relationship is their business. Well, until you heavily start plugging your album with her name, launch social media campaigns, and take over the ABC network. Not to mention the performances on Billboard and BET Awards.
Let's keep in mind that the wildly successful album and song titled "Blurred Lines" seemed to be controversial despite what the Thicke camp claims as to be innocent. Many accusations of misogyny, weird performances (Miley Cyrus and the twerking at the VMAs), and overall huge departure of the sound established from previous albums ruffled the feathers of fans and newly sought out fans.
Keep in mind, most musicians grab from their life situations and circumstances for inspiration. The best music appeals to emotions or how you can easily relate to the lyrics not to mention the backing soundtrack. No matter the genre, music is unique to people. Robin Thicke has been able to keep the R&B feel while collaborating with other artists and producers to appeal the masses.
The titles of the songs of the album tend to be self explanatory, and when you listen to the album all through, 'Paula' tells the story of the recent demise of their relationship. "You're My Fantasy", "Get Her Back", "Still Madly Crazy", "Lock the Door", "Whatever I Want", "Living in New York City", "Love Can Grow Back", "Black Tar Cloud", "Too Little Too Late", "Tippy Toes", "Something Bad", "The Opposite of Me", "Time Of Your Life", and "Forever Life". Isn't storytelling the backbone of music?
Let's set the lyrics/storytelling aside for now. Robin's voice still has the soultry R&B quality, and in a surprising fashion the back up vocals from women add to the sound. Each song has feel of innocence, which in his position could be a selling point for "getting her back". The lighthearted beats, additions of strings, and other instruments add to the sound quality. Perhaps because 'Blurred Lines' was so popular with fans and critics alike, the announcement of 'Paula' seemed to pop up quickly. Nonetheless, Thicke used his personal life as a muse. Whether or not you agree with taking this route shouldn't be your decision.
The over publicizing of his plea to get Paula back has been received differently. Many claiming Thicke is taking this too far. Many are probably wondering if Paula is okay with this, and if this will work. The results of 'Paula' remain to be seen, but coming from listening "cover to cover", this album is worth listening to, and isn't that what an album is designed to do?
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