Journey to Freedom (album)

Background

In October 2008, Williams released her third studio album Unexpected, her first release since the disbanding of Destiny's Child. A breakaway from her previous solo efforts, gospel albums Heart to Yours (2002) and Do You Know (2004), the dance-pop-R&B album gained generally favorable reviews from critics, but became a moderate seller. Meanwhile, lead single "We Break the Dawn" and follow-up "The Greatest" became top ten hits on the dance charts, though plans for a reissue of the album failed to materialize. In July 2009, Williams began a limited six-week engagement at the Cambridge Theatre in Chicago, making her the first African-American to be cast in the West End production of the musical. Her run was extended and Williams continued appearing for three additional weeks for an extended engagement through September 2009.

In January 2010, Michelle announced that she had parted ways with manager Mathew Knowles and Music World Entertainment. The following months, Williams made a return to Broadway by commencing a seven-week limited engagement in Chicago at the New York Ambassador Theatre, and in August, she joined the eighth series of British television show Strictly Come Dancing. Journey to Freedom, her fourth album, marks a return to Williams' gospel roots after taking a secular detour on 2008's Unexpected. It features the singles "If We Had Your Eyes", "Fire", and "Say Yes", the latter of which features Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland.

Singles

"If We Had Your Eyes" was digitally released worldwide as the lead single from Journey to Freedom on June 24, 2013. Fantasia Barrino features on the official remix which was released November 4, 2013. The song peaked on the US Adult R&B Songs at no. 19 and the US Hot Gospel Songs at no.22. On September 3, 2013 a Derek Blanks-directed music video was premiered via YouTube and features appearances from the song's producer, Harmony Samuels and also former Destiny's Child member, LeToya Luckett.

"Fire", produced by Harmony Samuels, was digitally released worldwide as the second single on September 24, 2013. The music video directed by Derek Blanks who also shot the video for the lead single "If We Had Your Eyes" premiered via YouTube on May 10, 2014. "Say Yes" featuring former Destiny's Child bandmates Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland was released as the third single on June 2, 2014. Although not a Destiny's Child song, "Say Yes" is the first song released as a single including all three former members since the group's disbandment in 2005. An accompanying music video was released on 18 June 2014 lead by Michelle Williams featuring Kelly Rowland and Beyoncé. The music video for "Say Yes" was directed by Matthew A. Cherry and was filmed on May 20, 2014.

Critical response

Journey To Freedom received favorable reviews from music critics. Andy Kellman of AllMusic wrote 'this is among Williams' best work, highlighted by "Need Your Help," "Fire," and "If We Had Your Eyes."' Peggy Oliver for Soul Tracks expressed similarly, writing Journey to Freedom 'is by far Williams’ best body of work, a personal cleansing that further amplifies her dexterity with multiple genres. Michelle Williams’ half-dozen year hiatus away from the studio has served its purpose: she has emerged as an artist clearly traveling on her own artistic road to freedom, and delivering an album that was well worth the wait.' Mike Wass of Idolator complimented the production, praising the mix between R&B and Gospel noting 'Journey To Freedom is the perfect bridge between the singer’s gospel and secular output. By focusing on universal themes (love, hope and inner strength) and exploring new genres, Michelle has created something both inclusive and joyously experimental.' Wass also claiming Journey to Freedom is 'her best album to date.'

Timothy Yap of Hallels lent praise to the lyrical themes, writing, 'it's a theological meaty album with doses of spiritual muscle-inducing supplements derived directly from Scripture.' However, he noted 'the record is far too slanted towards having far too many mid-pacers. Songs such as "Free," "Just Like You" and "Everything" basically utilizes the same urban template effortlessly without having much time invested in developing stronger hooks making them more memorable. "Believe in Me," a smooth Diane Warren-styled R&B beat ballad, is redemptive in terms of breaking up the tempo. Nevertheless, despite the quibbles, Journey to Freedom is still one of this year's important releases. Williams could have chosen to journey the safe and money grabbing route by compromising her beliefs and Christian stance. But here she chooses to be true to her faith, her calling and her Lord; and the rewards are eternal.'

The GospelPundit praised Samuels' production and Williams' vocals writing; '[the album] is a catchy collection of upbeat music that promises a party, while inspiring and encouraging listeners. The Samuels Nigerian heritage provides a rich musical backdrop of African-influenced beats and chants, while his proven success in mainstream music (Chris Brown, J Lo, Ne-Yo and more) promises pop and urban styles that are relevant to a broad marketplace of music lovers. Michelle Williams tops it all off with vocals that range from pop to passionate, simple to soaring, all the while staying true to her own voice and vibe.' RoJay of Middlechild Promotions lauded the Williams' vocal performance 'although still criminally underrated as a vocalist, Michelle Williams takes control of her destiny once again and delivers another solid solo album where she gets to showcase the side of her personality that makes her as genuine and true to her art as her peers.'

Track listing

Credits adapted from the liner notes of Journey to Freedom.