Download of the Day 6/29: "Rose Colored Glasses" by Kelly Rowland

Kelly's taking her "rose colored glasses" off

Today, R&B singer Kelly Rowland released the first of her two simultaneous singles, "Rose Colored Glasses", on iTunes. A week or so ago, I wrote a post criticizing the release of this and "Grown Woman" in the United States instead of "Commander". While I still believe that the David Guetta-produced pop smash is a superior track, I have warmed up to the song, so much so that it shot to #5 on the BWU Singles Chart this week. I now believe it is more than suitable to launch her new eponymous album here in the States.

"Rose Colored Glasses" is a synth-driven pop ballad, produced by Dr. Luke and written by Ester Dean. It's about a very difficult relationship that looks perfect to the rest of the world. I still find it ironic that this song, which is a very different, adult look at relationships, is being released alongside "Grown Woman". The lyrics are helped along by Kelly's spectacular vocal performance. Of course she's no Beyoncé, but she definitely can hold her own against the other pop divas. Dr. Luke delivers some top-notch production for this song, with its simple and four beat background and some shimmering synths to dress the song up a bit. It's simple, but effective, allowing the lyrics to really shine.

With "Commander" impacting worldwide and "Rose Colored Glasses" taking at the pop charts, Kelly Rowland is looking at her most successful album since 2002's Simply Deep.

Rating: 7 out of 10