Review
Cher's 1998 album "Believe" is a fierce display of her ever-evolving artistry and a revolutionary pivot in her sound. Dropping on October 22, 1998, via Warner Bros. Records, this bombshell album is Cher’s 22nd studio venture and seriously shook up the music world.
Trading her earlier vibe for a pulsating mix of Euro disco and dance-pop, "Believe" totally stands out with some major Auto-Tune action. Yes, you heard right—Auto-Tune! Debuting its jaw-dropping robotic feel in the title track "Believe," Cher coined the iconic "Cher effect" that everyone started mimicking afterward.
Packed with bangers like "Believe," "Strong Enough," "All or Nothing," and "Dov'è l'amore," the singles really shine. The lead single, "Believe," skyrocketed to the top in over 23 countries, turning into Cher’s anthem! It crushed record after record, even declaring Cher the oldest female artist to grab the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 at 52!
Dive into the lyrics and you’re hit with fierce themes of empowerment, self-worth, and bouncing back from heartbreak. "Believe" and "Strong Enough" scream resilience, echoing with those quotes about independence and strength that get you right pumped up. The whole album just shouts “you can do this” and fuels that fight-back spirit!
Critically and commercially, "Believe" legit nailed both camps. Critics were loving the sleek production, irresistible beats, and that ground-breaking Auto-Tune usage. And talk about impact—25 years later, it's getting the deluxe treatment with exclusive remixes and tasty extras.
Cher not only revived her own star power with this milestone album but also shook up how the whole game looked at vocal processing and production magic. "Believe" endures as one of her crown jewels and a huge influence, proving she's forever the ultimate pop icon. - Melody
