About this album

Sound: "Emotional melodies intertwine with lush instrumentation, blending soul, pop, and electronic elements seamlessly."

Where they were

Released on May 23, 1994, 'Seal' was Seal's self-titled debut album following his early work as a vocalist in the UK house music scene. At this point in his career, he had gained recognition for his contributions to the genre, but this album marked a significant leap into mainstream success and established him as a prominent artist.

Why it matters

'Seal' achieved substantial commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and earning multiple awards. The single 'Kiss From a Rose' later became a massive hit, featuring prominently in popular culture and significantly increasing Seal's visibility in the music industry.

Essential tracks

  • "Kiss From a Rose" — This track showcases Seal's unique vocal style and emotional depth, becoming his signature song and a cultural touchstone after its inclusion in 'Batman Forever.'
  • "Prayer for the Dying" — With its poignant lyrics and haunting melody, this song reflects themes of loss and hope, highlighting Seal's lyrical prowess and vocal range.
  • "Don't Cry" — 'Don't Cry' stands out for its soulful delivery and uplifting message, representing the emotional core of the album while resonating deeply with listeners.
  • "Dreaming in Metaphors" — This track exemplifies Seal's fusion of poetic lyricism with rich instrumentation, creating a dreamlike quality that permeates much of the album.

Release Date

May 23, 1994

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Bring It On 3:57
  2. 2 Prayer for the Dying 5:30
  3. 3 Dreaming in Metaphors 5:51
  4. 4 Don’t Cry 6:17
  5. 5 Fast Changes 5:41
  6. 6 Kiss From a Rose 4:47
  7. 7 People Asking Why 4:45
  8. 8 Newborn Friend 4:04
  9. 9 If I Could 4:16
  10. 10 I’m Alive 4:01
  11. 11 Bring It On (reprise) 1:16