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One of the success stories of 2004 makes a quick return with the first fruits of her much vaunted 'proper' debut album. The 17 year old with the voice of a soul diva always said The Soul Sessions was more of a side-project, and You Had Me is the first example of her songwriting prowess.
Although more contemporary and upbeat than most of The Soul Sessions, this song proves that Stone is an immensely talented young woman. It may threaten to dip into bland Anastacia territory at some points,but Stone's wonderful voice and the tightness of her regular band ensures that this remains a superior, and at times exhilarating, piece of pop-soul.
The debate about whether she would receive quite as much attention if she was black will rumble on, but that shouldn't obscure the fact that Stone is a major talent. The forthcoming album Mind Body And Soul should see her cement her place as one of the country's most exciting new singers.
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