In a revealing interview with Bustle, Ciara recounted a pivotal moment in her career nearly two decades ago when she took a significant risk by leaking her song “Promise.” This decision came after a Sony executive labeled the track as “the worst R&B record.” Rather than accepting the negative feedback, Ciara, now 39, decided to take control of her destiny.
The singer shared that the leak occurred at an Atlanta radio station, where the song quickly gained traction and became a massive success. This bold move not only propelled “Promise” to the top of the charts but also led to her first No. 1 album. Ciara reflected on that week, noting the competitive atmosphere with other major artists like Gwen Stefani and Eminem also releasing music.
Ciara also discussed her experience promoting her 2010 single “Gimme Dat,” which required a significant financial investment but ultimately did not achieve the same success as “Promise.” She acknowledged that while not every endeavor yields results, her unwavering belief in herself has been a consistent driving force throughout her career.
When it comes to defining success, Ciara emphasized that accolades do not solely determine her achievements. She cited her 2013 hit “Body Party,” which topped R&B/hip-hop radio charts but did not receive award nominations. This experience reinforced her belief that relying on awards as a measure of success could lead to feelings of failure.
Now over 20 years since her debut album “Goodies,” Ciara continues to thrive in the music industry. In 2024, she embarked on a tour with Missy Elliott, Busta Rhymes, and Timbaland for “Out of This World — The Missy Elliott Experience,” bringing along her family for part of the journey. She expressed gratitude for sharing this experience with her husband Russell Wilson and their children, describing it as an enriching and joyful time.
Ciara’s reflections highlight not only her resilience in the face of criticism but also her ongoing commitment to music and family life. As she embraces new opportunities, she remains grateful for the little joys that come with both motherhood and her enduring career in entertainment.
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