Adele’s first two albums were called “19” and “21.” Taylor Swift wrote a song on her “Red” album called “22.” They were all related to age. But will either or both of these singers come up with new albums in time to make numerical logic of their titles? Adele, “23”? Swift, “24”? We’ll see.
Sources tell me that Adele is back to work on a new album to follow the mind blowing sales of “21.” She’s been writing songs with Diane Warren, who could craft a tune out of a cereal box. Warren would be a good collaborator for Adele, helping her structure ideas. For this new album, Adele has to come up with a single as big as her two key hits, “Chasing Pavements” and “Rolling in the Deep.” A source tells me “Adele is working with a lot of writers, not just Diane.” Sony is hoping for a new album at least by the fall if not sooner.
Taylor Swift left the Grammys without statues on Sunday. But her “Red” album was a major hit and spawned many singles including “I’m Never Breaking Up with You Again.” Swift is also back to work now, with an eye on the fourth quarter. She’s likely partnered up again with Max Martin, the songwriting and producing machine from Sweden who can also concoct a top 10 hit out of thin air.
Meanwhile Jennifer Hudson’s new album will arrive in mid May, not mid March as previously thought. Jennifer just released a video and new single for “I Can’t Describe.” She told me the album is a little retro, with heavy emphasis on songs (remember them?) with melodies and hooks. She actually sang some of a potential hit called “Pretty Years” to me during a lull in the rehearsals Saturday for Clive Davis’s show. Wow. I do think JHud has still not had her biggest records. They’re coming. She has the best voice of her generation, hands down.
