Macy Gray Needs a Hit

March 06, 2007

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After Macy Gray first hit the scene with the memorable "I Try" in 1999, she hasn't been able to repeat the massive success of that song.

For her new album "Big," she turned to hitmakers Will.i.am, Robin Fair (of Mary J. Blige fame) and Justin Timberlake to come up with some radio-friendly, potent tracks for the record. She also invited a whole batch of stars to make cameos on the album including Fergie, NAS and Natalie Cole.

On paper, this new CD should be a shoe-in. Gray's voice is so distinct and different that it easily sets her apart from the slew of mediocre R&B singers.

But I'm not feeling most of the songs on "Big."

I listened to an advance copy and was horrified by some of the tracks on the disc. You know how "American Idol's" Simon Cowell often judges amateur talent on the basis of song selection? Gray should have kept that in mind. Instead of keeping her style eclectic and fresh across the record, Gray primarily chose to go with cookie cutter productions that don't do any justice to her idiosyncratic style and vocals.

No, Macy you are not a Pussycat Doll.

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