Apprendre à jouer l'album : Back to black

Learn to play the album back to black

“Back to Black” by Amy Winehouse

Context and Creation

“Back to Black” is the second studio album by Amy Winehouse, released on October 27, 2006 in the United Kingdom and March 13, 2007 in the United States. After the moderate success of her debut album “Frank,” Winehouse collaborated with producers Mark Ronson and Salaam Remi for this project, seeking to create a more mature and personal sound.

Themes and Inspiration

• Breakup : The album “Back to Black” was strongly inspired by Amy Winehouse's tumultuous relationship with Blake Fielder-Civil. Many of the songs deal with the pain of separation, unrequited love, and struggling with addictions.
• Musical Influences : The album's sound draws heavily from '60s music, with influences from Motown, soul and doo-wop. Amy Winehouse and her producers sought to capture the essence of that era while adding a modern twist.

Notable Titles

1. “Rehab” : The first single from the album, famous for its catchy chorus “They tried to make me go to rehab, I said, 'No, no, no'”. The song candidly addresses the efforts of those close to her to push her into rehab.
2. “Back to Black” : The title track is a dark, melancholic ballad about returning to destructive habits after a breakup.
3. “You Know I'm No Good“ : This track explores themes of infidelity and self-sabotage, with a melody that combines jazz and R&B.
4. “Tears Dry on Their Own” : A more optimistic song despite its lyrics about resilience after a breakup.
5. “Love Is a Losing Game” : A heartbreaking ballad that received praise for its simplicity and emotional depth.

Critical and Commercial Reception

• Commercial success : “Back to Black” was a huge commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and selling millions of copies worldwide.
• Reviews : The album received critical acclaim for its authenticity, Amy Winehouse's exceptional vocals, and her ability to fuse musical genres in innovative ways.
• Awards : The album won several prestigious awards, including five Grammy Awards in 2008, making Amy Winehouse the first British artist to win five Grammys in a single night.

Production and Collaborators

• Mark Ronson : The album's main producer, known for his retro style and talent for merging different genres. It was crucial in creating the album's distinctive sound.
• Salaam Remi : Another key producer who worked with Winehouse on several tracks, bringing additional depth and variety to the album.
• The Dap-Kings : This soul band played a vital role in the album, especially for the horn sections which contributed to its retro sound.

Legacy and Influence

• Cultural Impact : “Back to Black” is often considered one of the most important albums of the 21st century. He redefined modern soul and influenced a generation of artists.
• Amy Winehouse : The album solidified Amy Winehouse's place in music history, despite her career being tragically cut short. His voice and unique style continue to inspire artists in various musical genres.

Conclusion

“Back to Black” remains a monumental work that captures the pain, passion and artistic genius of Amy Winehouse. With iconic songs and exceptional production, the album continues to be celebrated as a timeless classic.