LP1 — Joss Stone's 2011 independent studio album

Background and release

Following her exit from the major-label system in 2010, Stone launched her own label to self-release material and to manage her career with fewer commercial constraints. Leaving EMI allowed her to pursue a project that prioritized personal expression and direct involvement in production, scheduling, and promotion. LP1 was issued with this independent framework in mind.

Music, themes and style

The album draws on soul, R&B, blues and roots influences and presents a more stripped-back, organic sound than some of Stone's earlier, more polished pop-soul recordings. Vocally, the record emphasises expressive, emotive performances and often features arrangements that foreground live instruments. Lyrical themes explore relationships, resilience and self-definition.

Production and contributors

Stone took a hands-on role in shaping LP1, working with a compact team of musicians and engineers rather than a large roster of high-profile producers. The production approach aimed for immediacy and warmth, using live takes and analogue textures where appropriate. Session players and collaborators provided instrumental backing, but the project is commonly described as driven by Stone's artistic vision.

Reception and impact

Critics responded to LP1 with a range of opinions, often praising Stone's vocal delivery and the album's authentic, soulful feel while noting ambitions to broaden or deepen songwriting in places. Commercially, the album charted in several countries and helped re-establish Stone as an independent artist willing to steer her own career. It also set the stage for subsequent releases on her label.

Key characteristics

• First studio album released on Stone'd Records, signalling independence.
• Release date: 21 July 2011.
• Sonic palette: soul, R&B, blues influences with live instrumentation.
• Emphasis on raw vocal performance and organic production.
• Mixed-to-positive critical reception and international chart presence.