Vocal Powerhouse Lorraine Reid Teaches Listeners on Lessons Learned
By Liz Singer

Talented songstress Lorraine Reid is not just reveling in her previous success from her dance group Temperance; she's making a major shift in her career and releasing a hot R&B album as a solo artist. Hailing from Toronto, Reid has opened for Lou Bega, Monica, Coolio and Destiny's Child, and "is vocally ready to take her place beside other international R&B songbirds. Some would even go as far as to grade her deep, rich voice against the bluesy sounds of Billy Holiday or Sarah Vaughan" (Georgette Charlicombe, Mic Check).
It's no surprise that Reid lists Whitney Houston as one of her influences, since her new album, Lessons Learned, contains vocals comparable to those of Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige and India.Arie. Says Charles Bouley II from Billboard, "Reid delivers inspired vocal[s] that prove she's a seasoned performer; it could easily elevate her to diva status. Her delivery is reminiscent of classic Donna Summer." 

Reid's musical style can be described as a combination of R&B and soul with an edge. Having recorded two previous albums with Temperance, Virtues of Life and If You Don't Know, she has the experience and the skills to infiltrate the music industry by simply sharing her powerful voice -- with her help, Temperance was able to secure 7 Juno nominations, more than any other dance group has received to date.
Lessons Learned couldn't be released at a better time in Reid's life; the album's title emulates the various challenges she has faced to make this record a reality, including vocal nodule surgery and the trials and tribulations associated with the life of any hard-working artist. You are sure to hear a more soulful and established performer on this album, as Reid provides a window into her heart by sharing the experiences that have made her the talented vocalist she is today. 


The stunning vocals of Reid are not to be taken lightly; her heart-wrenching voice resonates long after Lessons Learned has finished spinning, leaving traces of pure brilliance replaying through your eardrums. From upbeat, feel-good tracks like "Falling in Love," to songs that drive straight to your core like "How Do I Keep Him," Reid skillfully tugs at the heartstrings of her listeners, forcing them to close their eyes and try to block out the pain, and focus instead on the optimism of the future, and of the strength that can be found deep inside, even after the agony of heartbreak.
Reid further showcases her versatility as an artist in "Without You," singing a melody that feels like a stroll through the park. However, this is not the kind of walk that entails holding hands with a significant other; the beat provides an optimistic image of one walking alone, feeling independent and capable of accomplishing anything: "This time I know / I'm better off without you."
The album takes an even sweeter turn with the jazzy sound and vocals incredibly similar to those of Miss Keys on "Feel Like a Man." The soulful crooning toward the end of the track even brings a bit of Mary J. into the mix, creating an all-around, wonderfully soothing creation.


What stands out most on the album, though, is the overall attitude of hope for the future. Everything from the inspiring lyrics to the upbeat melodies and light, steady rhythms contribute to the effect of Reid's mission: inspiring all listeners to keep their heads up as they continue to move forward. And the stellar vocals of Reid, who has, undeniably, one of the best voices in the industry right now, certainly do nothing but enhance the feel-good sensation one gets from having the pleasure of being exposed to Lessons Learned.