Three years ago Elliott Yamin sang his way into the hearts of pop music lovers as he vied for the top spot on season 5 of the hit show American Idol. After all was said and done he left the Idol stage as the season’s third place finisher, and over time he is proving to be arguably one of the best artists to emerge from the massive American Idol spotlight. Elliott’s 2007 self-titled debut album Elliott Yamin was certified Gold and shot to the No. 3 spot on the Billboard 200—the highest charting debut from an independent artist in history. Indeed this artist’s talent, described by American Idol judge Simon Cowell as being a “vocal masterclass”, has caused music lovers to take note. However it is his obvious passion for the music, apparent in his vocals, that pulls you in even further and keeps you there.

May 5th, 2009 marks the release of Elliott Yamin’s sophomore album titled Fight for Love, which is already receiving positive reviews from even some of pop music’s harshest critics. Will Fight for Love enjoy the same level of success as Elliott’s 2007 debut album? Only time will tell; but it appears that the odds are in Yamin’s favor on this one.

The title track “Fight for Love” is the first single released from the Fight for Love album. “Fight for Love” is a solid and addicting track featuring romantic lyrics, soulful vocals, and sway-in-your-seat worthy beats. The “Fight for Love” music video, which was directed by Nick Spanos at the Los Angeles Theatre, is understated and beautifully paints the romantic vibe of the song with warm tones--in the process the video also manages to make practically every single lady wish she had her very own Elliott Yamin to serenade her. (Santa, can you hear me?)

Fight for Love flows nicely with sprinkles of bittersweet vulnerability, heartfelt soul, and of course a little funk. As you listen to the album it is obvious that Elliott, who co-wrote several of the songs on the album, has found his place as an artist. The result is a little bit of blues, a little bit of pop, a little bit of R&B, and a whole lot of soul tucked in with meaningful lyrics that come from a very real place. Nothing about this album feels contrived, but rather the entire album seems to encompass a sense of honesty, artistic self-awareness, and musical passion. With a strong group of producers such as Stargate, Jermaine Dupri, Midi Mafia and Johnta Austin having worked on the album, Fight for Love also proves to be radio friendly with a number of tracks possessing hit song potential. Plus, the album offers fans numerous opportunities to get down with their bad selves with a little sofa dancing—and who doesn't love sofa dancing?

Elliott Yamin’s Fight for Love reminds me of really good tiramisu – smooth, rich, strong, and sweet. It’s definitely worth a taste, or rather a listen.

Fight for Love track listing
1. Let Love Be
2. Know Better
3. Fight for Love
4. You
5. Can't Keep on Loving You
6. Don't be Afraid
7. You Say
8. Apart From Me
9. Cold Heart
10. How Do I Know
11. This Step Alone
12. Someday



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