Adele's second album, "21," is a masterclass in heartache and vocal prowess, capturing a raw, emotional intensity that resonated globally. The album dominated charts worldwide, driven by massive hit singles and a mature, soulful sound.
- "21" was recorded between 2010 and 2011 with producers like Paul Epworth and Ryan Tedder, and features a more blues and Southern soul-influenced sound compared to her debut. The album was a commercial juggernaut, spending 23 non-consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard 200 in the US and selling over 31 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time. It won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 2012, among numerous other accolades, and cemented Adele's status as a global music icon.
- The album's lead single, "Rolling in the Deep," reached number one in over a dozen countries, while "Someone Like You" became Adele's first UK number-one single and earned her an Ivor Novello Award. Upon its release, "21" broke numerous sales records, including becoming the UK's best-selling album of the 21st century and the best-selling album by a female artist in US history.
- Critics lauded "21" for its emotional depth, Adele's commanding vocal performances, and its cohesive blend of pop, soul, and blues influences. The album's themes of heartbreak and resilience struck a chord with listeners, leading to unprecedented commercial success and critical acclaim.
Adele is a British singer-songwriter from London, known for her powerful mezzo-soprano vocals and blend of pop, soul, and R&B music. At the time of "21"'s release, Adele was transitioning from the success of her debut album "19" into global superstardom, with this sophomore effort solidifying her place as one of the defining artists of the early 2010s.
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