By Megan King

Imagine you’re a new female R&B singing sensation. With countless television appearances and sold out shows across the country, it seems like no one can get enough of you. Do you think it would be a good idea to completely change not only your image, but also your sound? Probably not, but that’s exactly what Pink did in 2001 with her second studio release, ‘Missundaztood’.

With the major success of her first album ‘Can’t Take Me Home’, most industry execs did not understand why Pink would change what had made her so successful. Yet, regardless of the skepticism, she decided to release a CD her way. Much more rock oriented and edgier than previous ventures, ‘Missundaztood’ is a look into her life, her passion, and her head. Alongside some of the most famous names in the industry (Linda Perry and Steven Tyler, for starters), Pink’s album combines rock, dance, and pop to create not only some fun up-tempo dance tunes, but some very personal rock tracks, as well.

Pink starts off the album with the quirky, but fun title track, “Missundaztood.” While it seems like an odd pick for an opening song, it’s a unique way for the 27-year-old to introduce her new sound and style. “Don’t Let Me Get Me” and “Get The Party Started” soon follow, with their up-tempo beats that just makes you want to get up and dance. Empowering songs like “18 Wheeler” and “Respect” send a great message while also showing off Pink’s rockier side.

Personal and emotional songs like “Family Portrait” and “Dear Diary” slow it down a bit, but really show off Pink’s songwriting ability. “Family Portrait” takes a look into the troubled childhood of the singer, while “Dear Diary” tells the story of a woman who can’t seem to find what she’s looking for. The standout tracks on Missundaztood, however, conclude the album. “Going To California” and “My Vietnam” are haunting political songs that truly display her strong range and moving vocal tone, a talent that normally goes unnoticed.

While most pop singers were making albums with little or no substance, Pink tried to break from that and create an honest album. Missundaztood is a fun, emotional, and political pop-rock album from an artist with true talent.

Guilty Pleasure