"In My Mind" is the debut solo studio album by American recording artist and record producer Pharrell Williams. The album was released on July 25, 2006, by Star Trak Entertainment and Interscope Records. Despite mixed reviews from professional music critics upon its initial release, "In My Mind" has since been evaluated more positively.
Work for the album started in 2003 and continued to 2006, with a delay due to Pharrell's work with The Neptunes, his music production duo with Chad Hugo. Primarily a hip hop and R&B album, it also incorporates elements of pop, funk, and soul. "In My Mind" marked Pharrell's first solo attempt after gaining considerable fame and success as a producer and featured artist.
The album features guest appearances from Jay-Z, Slim Thug, Snoop Dogg, Kanye West, Nelly, and Pusha T, among others. Also, it includes production primarily by Pharrell himself, with assistance from Chad Hugo, who contributed to seven of the sixteen tracks.
Although it debuted at number three on the US Billboard 200, the album generated lower sales than expected. Nevertheless, it produced three singles that achieved modest Billboard chart success. "Can I Have It Like That," featuring Gwen Stefani, the first lead single from the album, peaked at number 49 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The second single, "Number One," featuring Kanye West, made the top 40 and the third single "That Girl," featuring Snoop Dogg, peaked at 77.
Overall, "In My Mind" is a manifestation of Pharrell's range as an artist, showcasing his skills beyond just producing but also as a commendable solo performer. It is a hip-hop album infused with his different impacts and inspirations from R&B and soul to pop and funk, making it an interesting mélange of genres and styles.
