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Lay It Down (Al Green album)

by Al Green

Released: May 27, 2008

Soul

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

"Lay It Down" stands as the 29th studio album by the iconic American singer Al Green, marking his return to secular music after a significant hiatus. Featuring guest vocals from esteemed artists like Anthony Hamilton, John Legend, and Corinne Bailey Rae, "Lay It Down" presents a dynamic blend of old-school soul and modern R&B influences.

Inside the Recording

Released on May 27, 2008, under Blue Note Records, the album was produced by Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson and James Poyser, adding a contemporary touch to Green's classic soul sound.

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Essential Tracks

Lay It Down

"Lay It Down" stands as the 29th studio album by the iconic American singer Al Green, marking his return to secular music after a significant hiatus.

You've Got The Love I Need

However, the album secured victories with its tracks "Stay With Me (By the Sea)" winning Green and Legend the Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal award, and "You've Got the Love I Need" clinching the award for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance, a testament to Green's continued impact and talent in the music industry.

Stay With Me (By The Sea)

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Explore the Album

Al Green - Lay It Down (Al Green album)

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Then

Reception

The album soared to number 9 on Billboard's Top Album charts, indicative of its commercial success and enduring appeal. Critically acclaimed, "Lay It Down" earned Green a nomination for Best R&B Album at the 51st Annual Grammy Awards, although it was ultimately bested by Jennifer Hudson's self-titled album. However, the album secured victories with its tracks "Stay With Me (By the Sea)" winning Green and Legend the Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal award, and "You've Got the Love I Need" clinching the award for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance, a testament to Green's continued impact and talent in the music industry.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"Lay It Down" stands as the 29th studio album by the iconic American singer Al Green, marking his return to secular music after a significant hiatus. Released on May 27, 2008, under Blue Note Records, the album was produced by Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson and James Poyser, adding a contemporary touch to Green's classic soul sound.

Featuring guest vocals from esteemed artists like Anthony Hamilton, John Legend, and Corinne Bailey Rae, "Lay It Down" presents a dynamic blend of old-school soul and modern R&B influences. The album soared to number 9 on Billboard's Top Album charts, indicative of its commercial success and enduring appeal.

Critically acclaimed, "Lay It Down" earned Green a nomination for Best R&B Album at the 51st Annual Grammy Awards, although it was ultimately bested by Jennifer Hudson's self-titled album. However, the album secured victories with its tracks "Stay With Me (By the Sea)" winning Green and Legend the Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal award, and "You've Got the Love I Need" clinching the award for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance, a testament to Green's continued impact and talent in the music industry.