CHRISTINA NOT HERSELF TONIGHT

CHRISTINA AGUILERA - BIONICChristina Aguilera is back with a new album this month after taking a break for marriage and motherhood.   Timing is everything as they say, and what a difference a year or two can make.   Just over a year ago Ms. Aguilera was accused of "borrowing" the style of a largely unheard of, newly spawned internet sensation named Lady Gaga during a performance for the single "keeps Getting Better".   Christina's quoted response  -" I'm not sure who that person is" sent gossip blogs crazy speculating that the comment suggested Lady Gaga was a drag Queen.    Well all we can say for sure is - Christina knows who Lady Gaga is now.    Gaga has pushed the reset button for all pop fans like the recession did for luxury shoppers.    After Gaga, every artist has to rethink how they are marketing themselves, and is their look fresh enough to keep fans wanting more.NOT MYSELF TONIGHT - 2010

Of course, Christina Aguilera is different from most pop artists today in that she can sing.    And sing she does.   Not since Whitney Houston HARD CANDY - 2008has anyone heard notes that Ms. Aquilera if your Nasty hits on half a breath.  What she has in spades in vocal chops, she sometimes lacks in original styling or creativity.   Case in point is the cover art for the first single from the new album BIONIC.    The catchy "Not Myself Tonight"  gives Christina the chance to hit some notes and clearly, the video gave her the chance to get nasty again and be "edgy".    I just wish the shot was a little more original.   I know Madonna has a huge influence on every pop performer - but this was the cover of her last album - Hard Candy from 2008, not some obscure old photo!   In the video, she also burns down Carrie's closet from Sex & The City!

I think overall, the issue is... when you compare street smart kids like Lady Gaga and Madonna to former Mouseketeers like Britney or Christina in the creative department... there is just no comparison.     Really good intentions come off as fluff. 

I love Christina and I'm sure BIONIC will be great.   Just wanting more from a pro like Christina Aquilera.  You be the judge.   Watch the video here: